#we need more Natsu blushing moments

[shiiro-arts]

A minute of silence for all Nalu fans because we will never get this animated (the rest of the manga is way too freaky lmao)

[dira333]

heiii hun!!

can i request aone (hehe) and kyotani for your game? as usual, i look forward to reading your gems!!! <3 <4 <5

of course, of course! You can send in more if you want...

since I still owe you a Kyoutani plotbunny, lets start with that.

Kyoutani

I'm not sure if this is canon or fanon, but we all agree that Kyoutani loves dogs. And since he's a bit more rebellious, we all think he's got a pit bull at home or a sheepdog. But his first dog after high school is neither of those things. He volunteers at a shelter and there's this ugly one-eyed Pekinese who barks way too much. Her name's Lala and she's unadoptable, hates men and women even more. But she loves Kyoutani. And while he really really wanted to adopt a Pitbull, he cannot let Lala down. So if you see him walking that little ankle-biter in the park, better hope Lala likes you.

2. Kyoutani

Kyoutani is wholly uninterested in dating. He has no time for it and he doesn't understand it either. The cute girls are scared of his looks and the ones that aren't scared of him turn away the moment he reveals that he's a volleyball player. But while he's sworn off dating, he hasn't sworn off girls. Or helping them, for that matter. So when he notices you, trying to get out of an uncomfortable situation at the train station, he's quick to help. And when you don't flinch away at his sight, he offers to walk you home. Who knows... maybe you could be the one who breaks his streak of bad luck?

Aone

You are trying very hard to find any common ground on this blind date. Aone's good-looking, tall and polite, but how long can he keep up this act of not speaking to you? Is he even interested?

By the end of your date, you're wholly convinced that there will not be a second one. That is until you step out of the Diner and a guy your age, brown hair dripping from the rain, grabs your Date's arm. "Aone?! Wow, long time no see! Is this your girlfriend?" And maybe you're giving him too much credit, but the violent blush on Aone's cheeks and the way he stumbles with his words make him look endearing rather than disinterested. Maybe you could do a second date after all...

2. Aone

I am fully convinced that Aone is Natsu Hinata's biggest fanboy. Like, he's on every game he can possibly attend, showing off as a stand-in for her big brother and his friend, Shouyou. There's a comfortable bond between these two, no words needed. Which is why, when Natsu drags one of her teammates over, Aone knows immediately what this is about. She's trying to set him up... with you.

[sweetasmiele]

NALU WEEK - DAY #4

SCARS

“For once, you had a great idea, Natsu! The water is amazing.” Lucy squeezed her hair to let the water out and lay down. A nice cold swim was exactly what they needed. The last quest had left them covered in dirt and ashes, but that was to be expected when your partner was the Fire Dragon Slayer.

“Fish!” Happy yelled, diving once again into the natural pool they had found in the depths of the forest.

It was beautiful. The water shimmered under the sun, and the sound of the waterfall and of the birds singing was therapeutic. Lucy closed her eyes and sighed, her skin drying under the hot summer sun.

Her moment of peace was short-lived. She was showered with droplets of water as Natsu shook himself like a dog next to her.

“Natsu!” she yelled as he plopped down on his stomach just beside her. 

“Ah, this is the life!” he commented lifting his chest to rest on his elbows.

She closed her eyes again, and only to open them a few seconds later. Natsu wasn’t speaking but she could feel his attention on her and his hand was tracing abstract shapes on her arm. 

It took her a second to realize he was following with his fingers one of her old scars. Feeling her gaze, Natsu raised his eyes. He didn’t say anything, but Lucy knew he was asking for permission to continue, and she nodded.

“That one is old. It’s from when we were looking for Macao, remember?”

Natsu's eyes were back on her scar, his eyebrows furrowed and his lips pursed. He looked so focused Lucy was almost afraid to talk. She felt his hand move from her bicep to her elbow, his fingers touching the sensitive skin of another small scar.

“Tenrou Island,” she said immediately without him asking. She felt his hot touch linger a moment longer before his fingers moved down to her forearm. 

“That’s actually from when we got stuck in that bell after the Grand Magic Games.” she chuckled and saw his cheeks and ears coloring. 

“When you decided to get naked right in the middle of a fight?” he teased tapping his fingers on her skin, his smile turning into a smirk. 

It was Lucy's turn to blush. She squirmed under his touch, but he didn’t move his hand.

“It wasn’t my fault!” she whined, but before she could defend herself more Natsu’s smirk disappeared. His hand had reached her wrist. 

The marks from Virgo’s Fleuve d'étoiles had left a mark that went all around her wrist. It wasn’t a dark scar, it was barely there, but Natsu had seen it. 

Among all the memories she had cited, that was the most painful to revisit, so she remained silent. Natsu seemed to sense her tensing up because he moved on without waiting for her explanation.

His hands reached her waist, and Lucy’s breath caught in her throat. She felt his fingers push against her skin, suddenly much warmer than a second before. 

“That’s also from the Grand Magic Games,” she whispered, worried she would disturb his meticulous search.

“Minerva,” he growled, his expression darkening. Lucy wasn’t ready for that sudden change of mood, and she observed him quietly as his expression hardened and his eyes narrowed. 

His hand descended to her bikini, where a long scar started from her navel and disappeared under the fabric. His hand stopped right there, where the skin met the swimsuit. 

She blushed, but he didn't seem to realize where his hand was, his gaze dark and intense. 

She didn’t know if it was because it was a sensitive spot or because that touch belonged to Natsu, but each little movement, even her abdomen moving up and down, was enough to make her shiver.

“Natsu, it’s okay,” she said softly, a smile in her words. 

“No, it’s not. I don’t like it.” His gaze was fixed on his hand, still burning against her skin.

“Oh, I know they’re not pretty, but—” she suddenly felt self-conscious and tried to move away, but Natsu’s hand kept her still.

“I wasn’t able to protect you,” he interrupted her, averting his gaze, his cheeks coloring once more. 

Lucy sighed, feeling silly for having doubted him, her body relaxing under his touch. 

“Natsu, I’m a mage,” she said, “you’re also full of scars.” To prove her point, she playfully tapped a scar on his shoulder.

“It’s different,” he pouted.

“How is it different?”

“It just is.”

She gently cupped his chin and turned his head to face her, and Natsu grudgingly obliged.

“Look,” she said, pointing to a scar on her knee. “This reminds me of the first time we met. Remember? When that guy was pretending to be you?” he rolled his eyes, but she continued. 

“And this? This is from that time we ended up in Edolas.”

“And this is from when I made you and Happy those cookies and burned myself with the pan!”

Natsu finally met her eyes, a smile fighting his way out. 

“They all tell a story,” she said. “A story about me and you.”

He finally allowed himself to smile, and, for a moment, Lucy thought he looked beautiful. With his cheeks red from the sun, his cherry pink hair still wet from their swim, and his golden skin shining under the sun.

“Want to know which is my favorite?” she asked, leaning toward him, their noses almost touching.

He nodded, his eyes wide with curiosity, and for a second, Lucy could have sworn he was holding his breath.

“This one,” she pointed to her shoulder, where a series of little dots formed an arc.

“Where is it from?” he asked, furrowing his brows.

“You idiot! You bit me last month!” she smacked him on the head and jumped on her feet ready to run. Natsu was soon at her tail. 

She kept laughing and tripping, and it wasn’t hard for Natsu to catch her and throw her in the water, but she didn’t care. Her heart was full. 

Those scars were part of her and she cherished each of them, just like every moment she had shared with Natsu.

(Needless to say, she added a new scar on her knee, tripping during her run.)

[fairiesheart]

Kind of want to weight in my opinion on the whole “Natsu got dummer in a 100 year quest” subject. I kind of feel like some people are confusing some of Natsu’s moments whenever he acts dense or ends up lacking social cues as automatically meaning he is stupid.

For example there was a moment in 100 year quest where the situation made it clear that Erza and Jellal were blushing around each other and needed to have a moment alone but Natsu acts confused. I feel like some people kind of forget that Natsu was raised by dragons so everything he does or behaves is a hundred percent instinctual it’s a moment where he’s clearly just being dense but this often gets mixed up with referring to a character as being completely dumb.

Honeslty as I am watching 100 year quest so far I do notice more of Natsu’s playful and oblivious nature is played up more then in the original series but at the same time I think it’s good to remember that when the Alvarez arc happened Natsu himself was battling against his own brother Zeref, learned about his true identify as a demon of the book of Zeref, and trying his hardest to save the guild he grew up in by protecting the first master (in other words there were more personal conflicts for him during that time hence why he written more in a serious manner then he is during 100 year quest)

It’s not that Natsu as a character is no longer the character we all know and love; I think it’s just that Hiro Mashima is simply taking a different angle with his character. Whenever there are serious moments that do occur in 100 year quest Natsu is still able to snap right into that headspace that there are no times for jokes.

[fandomcreatorsguild]

Prompt Activity

Since one of the big things I have always wanted to do with a space like this is help creators to learn and grow together, we are getting started on testing out some of the community activity ideas we have been given and/or have come up with.

We asked out creators to choose a fandom, and pick one of the prompts offered! We will have different length of creation times base on interest and requests later.

Activity: Community Prompt Share 1-19-24 Prompt Options:

"Since when did you hate to interfere?"

Alt prompt: “I’m sorry I’m so much trouble, really.” “Shhh, stop it. Your no trouble at all, zero.”

Due by: 1-21-24, 11 pm Central Time. For this prompt, the only length limit is what you can get done by Sunday!

==================

Creator: @teleiapotami

Fandom: Fairy Tail

Prompt: "Since when do you hate to interfere?"

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

Natsu had never seen his brother look more flustered in his life. He stifled a snicker, watching Zeref rub the back of his head nervously, while his other hand fiddled with the pin on his tie nervously. Before him stood a petite girl with a mass of blonde hair that nearly brushed the floor.

Zeref looked around suddenly, and Natsu ducked back around the corner of the bookshelf he was hiding behind, holding his breath. There was no way he was interrupting this! Not when his big brother was practically blushing! He poked his head back out after a slow ten count and scanned the area, frowning.

“Looking for something?”

Natsu bit back a yelp, scrambling to catch the books he'd knocked off the shelf in his startled reaction. “Wha�� Hey Zeref! I thought you were…uh…busy with…” he trailed off, swallowing at the irritated glint in his brother's dark eyes.

“Busy with Mavis? Yes, I was. No thanks to you. She said that YOU told her sister she should ask me out?” he demanded, his hands automatically moving to reorganize the upset shelf properly. Natsu shrugged slightly. “I….might have mentioned it to Lucy, yeah. But so what? Why are you mad about it? You TOLD me you liked her, remember?” He poked one of the books further back into the shelf, grinning mischievously. Zeref instantly tugged it back into line with an annoyed huff.

“I also said I wasn't ready to do anything about it, and that I wanted to talk to her on my own terms and timing. And you promised you would make sure I got to do that,“ he said, pushing Natsu out of the library.

Natsu grinned sheepishly. ”O-Oh yeah…I did say that, huh?” “Yes. You did Natsu. So why didn't you come interrupt when you saw her waylay me?”

“W-Well, y'know….I would have hated to interfere in your—”

Zeref let out a rare snort, stopping their walk to give his brother a disbelieving look. “Since when do you hate to interfere? You are the KING of interfering!”

“Prince,” Natsu grinned. “You hold that crown, big brother.”

Zeref opened his mouth to argue, but his eyes fell on the scar on Natsu's neck, and he looked away. “Fair enough,” he grunted.

The pair walked in silence for a few minutes again before Natsu stretched his arms out behind his head. “So…did you get a date?”

The bright blush on his brother's cheeks was the only confirmation Natsu needed.

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

Creator: @dawnwynters

Fandom: Fairy Tail

Prompt: “I’m sorry I’m so much trouble, really.” “Shhh, stop it. Your no trouble at all, none.”

TW: Mention of Attempted Assault

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

Natsu groaned as he rolled over, his hand searching blindly for his phone as the loud ringing pulled him further out of sleep. He had no idea what time it was, but he knew that it was nowhere near time for him to wake up. Cracking open a green eye as he grasped his phone, he pressed the green circle to answer before holding it to his ear, not bothering to check the name or number. “What?” He growled, irritated at being woken up.

There was an odd silence for a moment, the person on the other end sniffling as if they were crying. “Natsu?”

He sat upright, his eyes wide as he fully woke up at the sound of that broken voice, a voice he hadn’t heard in years but knew better than his own. “Lucy?” He shoved the blankets off him as he shifted to sit on the edge of his bed. “What’s wrong?”

“I’m s-sorry,” Her voice was dazed and thick with tears. “I-I didn’t know who-“ She trailed off, another sob escaping her. “I-I’m lost?”

He was up, his phone pressed between his shoulder and his ear as he yanked on his pants. “What do you mean you’re lost? Lucy, what’s wrong?” “Th-There was a p-party?” There was another choked sob. “Dan t-tried-“

“Where are you, Lucy?” He interrupted her as he tugged a shirt on. “Tell me where you are and I’ll come get you.”

“I-I don’t kn-know.” She took a shuddering breath. “D-Dan d-drove us there and I-I r-ran.”

“Are you hurt?” He pulled his boots on before grabbing his car keys and heading out the door, his heart racing as he waited for her answer and cursing the current downpour of rain. “I f-fell a few times. H-Hit my head.” She sniffled again. “It’s raining and it’s s-slippery.”

“I know.” He kept his voice soft to try and soothe her. “Can you focus enough to share your location with me so I can find you?” He started his car, his phone automatically connecting to the Bluetooth as he waited, relief flooding him when her location popped up. “I’ll be there in ten minutes.”

He kept her talking as he sped through the streets, ignoring almost every traffic law there was until he was pulling up to a curb, his heart breaking at the sight of her huddled up under the awning of a store. “Lucy,” He spoke her name softly as he picked her up and carried her to his car, carefully buckling her in.

She didn’t speak, her face turned away from him to stare at the passing scenery as he drove, her hands clutching the edge of her short dress tightly. “I-I’m sorry.” She finally whispered. “I know I’m the l-last person you w-want to-“

“Shut up, Lucy.” He made sure to keep the frustration out of his voice as he parked outside of his apartment building. “Sit still for a moment.”

She nodded, listening to him getting out of the car and waiting silently until the door opened and he was getting her out of the car and carrying her inside, her body shuddering at the warmth of him and his apartment. “I-I’m-“

“Cold. I know.” He carried her to the bathroom and set her down on the toilet. “Don’t move.” He watched her nod in agreement before he left her alone for a moment to retrieve a pair of his sweatpants, a t-shirt, and the first-aid kit he kept. “Okay,” He knelt in front of her, his eyes moving over her body to assess where she was hurt. The gash on her forehead looked superficial, as did the cuts scrapes on her hands, knees, and bare feet, but it was the finger print bruises on her upper arms and thighs that had him biting back his rage. “Tell me what happened.” He kept his voice calm as he started treating the cuts and scrapes on her feet and knees.

She watched him as he treated her cuts, her eyes finally dry as she took a deep breath. “Dan took us to a party at one of his old Fraternity brother’s house and he got stupid drunk. He-“ She swallowed and looked away, closing her eyes tightly. “He told his friends to ‘go for it’ and they grabbed me-“

His hands stilled, the fingers that were gently curled around her leg tightened as his eyes flew up to her face. “Lucy, how far did they get?”

“Not very. I struggled and managed to get away. I just ran.” She let out a shaky breath and opened her eyes to look at him. “I didn’t know who else to call, Natsu, I’m sorry.”

He pulled out more supplies from the kit and started to clean the gash on her forehead. “What happened to your shoes?”

“I kicked them off the second time I fell.” She whispered, her eyes closing as she let him treat her wound. “Natsu, I’m sorry I’m so much trouble, really.”

He gently gripped her chin, his eyes locking on hers when she opened them in surprise. “Shh, stop it. You're no trouble at all, Luce, none.” He held her gaze until she nodded before he released her chin and finished cleaning the cut. “Okay, take a shower and I’ll put a bandage on that. You can wear these.” He gestured to the clothes he had brought in for her.

“Okay.” She whispered. “Thank you.” He nodded and left the bathroom, moving to put the first aid kit away before pulling out his phone and scrolling through until he found the number he was looking for and clicked on it. “Hey,” He sighed when the man on the other end answered. “Sorry to wake you, Laxus, but there’s something you need to know.” He quickly filled him in on what had happened and what Lucy told him. “I’ll keep her here tonight, but she might feel better if you come get her in the morning.”

“But she’s safe? She wasn’t hurt too badly?” Laxus’s voice was filled with anger.

“She’s perfectly safe with me, I promise.” Natsu listened to the shower shut off and sighed. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

“Take care of my sister this time, Natsu or I’ll fucking kill you.”

Natsu rolled his eyes as Laxus hung up, his head turning towards the bathroom door when it opened and Lucy stepped out. He noticed how red her skin was and held back a growl, knowing she probably tried to scrub herself raw. “Lay down.” He gestured towards the bed.

“I can lay on the couch, Natsu.” She bit her lip. “I don’t want to kick you out of your-Hey!” She gasped in surprise when he picked her up and laid her down on the bed. “Really! I can take the-“

“Shut up, Luce.” He rolled his eyes and grabbed the bandage he left out of the kit to put it over the cut on her head. “Get some rest.” He waited for her to nod before he stood up and headed for his bedroom door so he could take the couch.

“Natsu?” She whispered, her eyes on him. “Thank you.”

“Always, Luce.” He gave her a weak smile before leaving her alone to sleep.

/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\/\

Thank you to those who participated in this weeks prompt, and to those who couldn't but expressed an interest! We are so excited to continue this activity and see where it goes!!

If you are interested in joining our discord, we would LOVE to have you!

[moongirlcleo]

headcanons for sting eucliffe with a professional ice (figure) skating fem s/o or crush? how does the blondie behave in that scenario.. cause i’m picturing him calling it easy and then falling on his ass and embarrassing himself on the first date 😭. and also how her friends (fairytail) and his friends would react to the whole thing. by the way, friendly reminder that you are SPECTACULAR!!!

awww bby YOU are spectacular <3 I got you ! This blonde dumb dumb would totally do something like that lol !

Sting x Fem Skater Crush:

"Hey, what do you say you and I go on a little date after the matches today?" The blonde dragon slayer smirked at you, leaning back and awaiting your answer.

Truth be told, you'd had your eye on him since you first saw him a few days ago. Determined to play coy, you smirked back and gave him a sly smile.

"If you can convince me, I may be willing to say yes."

The smirk on Sting's face faltered for a moment, before recovering.

“I don’t need to convince you, princess. By the end of the day, you’ll be wanting that date.”

You eyed the blonde up and down, tempted to give in. But the attitude Sting was displaying was more than displeasing. No, you decided. Two can play this game.

“Win against my guild mate later and I may even let you take me on a second.”

Sting’s eyes lit up at the taunt, knowing he’d be fighting against Natsu.

“You got it, babe. What’s your favorite food?”

…

…

Needless to say, the match between the two dragon slayers ended in a massive W for the Fairy Tail guild. You were sat at the bar with your friends the next day, when you remembered your exchange with Sting. Guilt flooded through your system. You’d only wanted to give back some attitude, not outright turn the blonde down.

Before long, you were walking down the roads in search of the Sabertooth guild residence. 

A downcast Sting sat outside the motel, covered in bandages. Quietly, you sat next to him and gave him a playful nudge.

“So, where are we going?” You asked, giggling as Sting jumped in fright. He gave you a scowl.

“Jesus, a ‘hey, it’s me’ would’ve been nice,” he grumbled. “Here to rub it in you all won?” 

You frowned. “No, I was coming to see if that date was still on the table.” 

A small rosy tint crossed Sting’s visage. 

“Thought you’d only go on a date with me if I won.”

“Hey now, I only said I’d consider a second date if you won.” You gave him a wink.

Sting’s face perked up. 

“Wait, you were joking? No way.” 

His outburst caused you to laugh. “Of course, I’d already planned on accepting, but you were acting a little too cocky so I figured I’d mess with you. Have you ever gone ice skating before?”

“No, why do you ask?” 

You blinked a moment before gesturing to your left.

“Well, on the way here, I passed an ice skating rink and I love ice skating, so let’s go!” You pulled Sting up and rushed toward the slab of ice, trying not to chuckle at the confused look on the dragon slayer’s face.

Once you arrived to the rink, you stole a glance at the blonde. His features were unreadable as he realized you two weren’t alone. It had seemed as if team Natsu were already here, making themselves quite at home, much to your disbelief.

“This can’t be that hard,” he muttered to himself. “It’s just ice. I got this in the bag.” Sting looked toward Natsu, the remnants of the match still fresh on his mind. You took that moment to grab his hand and pull him toward the ice. 

“It’s really not that hard, Sting. Watch me!” You requipped some ice skates on your feet and began pushing off, twirling around in circles. He watched you as you moved, nodding in amazement.

“Do you do this shit often?” He called out to you.

“Yeah, man, didn’t you know yn is a professional figure skater?” Gray Fullbuster replied for you. 

A blush bloomed across your cheeks. “It’s not that serious ice boy, shut up.” 

Motioning for Sting to follow, you pushed off the ice once again and made your way back toward the other end of the ice. 

He hesitated only slightly, stepping onto the ice. Sting gave you a small smile, concentrating on remaining upright. 

You nodded in encouragement. “Come on, push your right foot back and coast forward.” 

Sting did as you’d told, and he began coasting. He gave you a wide smile.

“Look, I totally got this!” He moved faster, and in an instant both of your smiles turned to fear as he steadily moved faster until a loud thud could be heard. 

Sting had crashed headfirst into the boards.

You covered your mouth in surprise, while your friends looked on and howled with laughter.

Sting’s face was beet red, a mix from the cold ice and humiliation. Skating over to him, you knelt down and gave him a small peck on the cheek.

“Hey,” you murmured. “Don’t worry about it. Everyone falls, sometimes. Wanna just grab something to eat?” 

The blonde gave you a smile and shook his head. “Are you kidding? Yn, that was so much fun. I may not be able to beat Natsu in a fight yet, but I’ll be damned if he can beat me at ice skating. Show me how to get better.” 

You stifled a groan and helped your crush up. With a smile, you taught him the ropes of skating, the promise of a second date in the air. 

[kurogane-redfox]

rico-hyuuga​:

“Should I assume that you got us one room?”

The man was blushing like he had been since they started in the hot springs. So far the man had done what he said that he would do if Ryukyu got too close he would kiss him. There was little what he had said that he didn’t mean. He didn’t mind keeping the young man forever and as of this moment, he showed it. As he sat on the man’s lap he smiled feeling a finger ribbing the seal on his lower back sending chills up his spine. His body moved on the lap of the dragon and he released another moan.

"Yeah, had a feelin’ ya wouldn’t mind sharin’ a room for the night, plus it’s kinda what’s done on jobs from what I gather,”

Gajeel had shared a room with Natsu before, he’d had to share a room with a few others he’d gone on jobs with. It was cheaper than renting two rooms after all. Not that he cared about price in the long run. He’d opted for a room with a larger than full sized bed at the very least there’d be room for both of them. Another grin would envelope the Dragon’s face as he managed to elicit another moan from the other male.

“If yer makin’ these kinds of noises from me just touchin’ ya makes me wonder how many more I can get if we did more.”

A devious glint would appear in his ruby eyes but it would go away just as quickly. He wasn’t one that did this kind of thing but he also didn’t want it to be only a one time thing. That wasn’t how the Dragon worked. He wanted something substantial, something that would last. He just had to hope that Ryukyu wanted the same thing.

After all the other male had been the one who said he needed to find someone worthy of himself. What’s to say the other male wasn’t just that? The Dragon supposed only time would tell. He’d stop rubbing the mark before talking once more.

“Shall we get dressed and get to our room?”

@rico-hyuuga​

[warlordgab]

NaLu analysis: tension and shipping

A few months ago, shippers brought up an interesting concept: "Tension." Which led to the question, what does "tension" mean in the context of relationships? Doesn't NaLu have this element in their bonding?

Let's start by answering, what's Tension?

It seems some people deliberately leave it vague as they don't specify if it is "romantic tension" or "sexual tension." So, we're going to briefly explore both concepts to see if we find either something from other premises that doesn't belong in NaLu, or something that fits their relationship and growth as seen in Mashima's works.

Let's start by assuming shippers use the term as Romantic Tension

There are a lot of concepts and factors involved, but to make it simple we can define "romantic tension" as the anticipation produced by the way two characters gravitate towards each other before their eventual relationship upgrade. Such interactions usually have some uniqueness to them, and depending on the writer and the characters, it may include a mix of both nervousness and excitement.

We have to make clear appearing in the panel/frame or having the same reaction to certain things or events is not 'gravitating toward each other,' so those scenes don't count as "tension."

What does count as romantic tension?

So, which girl does Natsu gravitate towards the most?

It's kinda hard to miss that since the story started Natsu, slowly but surely, developed a strong attachment to Lucy. It started with Natsu doing what he never did during his whole life in the guild: form a team

They kept growing so close they eventually got the point that he sticks to her a lot more often, even when having the choice to make up for the lost time with his childhood friend by the time of the GMG arc...

...to the point when having to choose between the thrill of battle in the magic games or going on a secret mission to rescue Lucy, he easily chose Lucy.

Bonus points for Lucy getting a little blushed and clearly overjoyed when she got to know about it.

The story also highlights who, more often than not, stays in Lucy's house eagerly waiting for her return...

He tends to go to Lucy's home more often that anyone else, and that special chapter revealed he just does it because he wants to be her.

Also, who was the first person he wanted to go with him to battle Hades?

...and as Lisanna predicted, Natsu drew strength from the fact Lucy was by his side even when everyone else was losing hope

Before the Alvarez battle started, who did Natsu choose to spend the night with?

The one who actually got him to talk about the future and rationalize the thrill he feels in battle was Lucy. More often than not, Natsu tends to gravitate towards her, and that's part of the reason why some of the most meaningful moments come up naturally without any of them being out of character. So, we can say there's some sort of tension there

But, what about Lucy?

Well, after sharing so much with Natsu she began to feel attached to him too. But, the most notable showings are the ones who showcase the emotional chemistry between the characters. Think about this: who did she turned when needing relief...

At the finale of the GMG arc, who did she run to when overwhelmed by, according to the narrative, a warm feeling dwelling in her chest?

Her first impulse was going to Natsu, and it doesn't feel forced at all given the context around the moment; feelings trascending space and time, but ultimately Lucy's own feelings, draw her to Natsu. Before the guild disbanded, who did Lucy run after?

Notice that despite having many guildmates, who are practically her family, it's the prospect of Natsu's absence what would make her feel lonely even if the guild were to be there for her. Still, after the disbandment was announced, she didn't run after any other guild member.

Who did she stick to after the events of HEROs? Who did she seek to prank her new friend? And who did she stay with the rest of their time?

It should be clear by now that the one person Lucy gravitates towards the most is Natsu. So, it's only logical to conclude there's "tension" between them as these unique interactions create some sort of suspense or hype around their bond and its potential to grow and evolve into something stronger.

Still, we have another term to cover: Sexual Tension

It's not the first time we tackled this subject in blogs or forums. Sexual tension occurs when two characters have sexual desires for each other, but they either hold back or never act on those urges. It's also used to create anticipation, since the only resolve that tension is for the character to get "intimate" with the person they desire.

It sounds crazy when you think about how the manga already told us that neither Natsu or Lucy have much experience with love, and take a look at how they respond to the subject. E.g. recall how Lucy reacts to the prospect of having a child with Natsu?

But, we can use a loophole: Drunk Lucy. It started in a OVA, made it into the manga, and stayed with us ever since

When Lucy gets drunk, the only target of her rather suggestive "affection" is Natsu

As for Natsu. Oddly enough, it's difficult to find Natsu "horny" even during fanservice involving NaLu. Some omakes may do the trick. But, the closest thing we got in the main storyline is feeling "good" when having Yokai Lucy firmly wrapped around him:

If we were to use those rare moments, we could say Natsu may be attracted to Lucy in more ways than one. So, despite how oblivious Natsu is, and how shy Lucy gets with the subject at hand, it's possible to argue there's some sort of "tension" in this regard

But, this is merely a small bonus. The true strength of NaLu is in the first kind of tension mentioned here, which is further enhanced by the solid chemistry they haveA lively and exciting dynamic made even more special due to the emotional attachment they cultivated for one another

Bonus:

Still, it's pretty interesting seeing shippers use similar arguments to promote premises that contradict NaLu. It's not uncommon to find fans claiming that NaLu will be canon only because Mashima said so, and because Juvia survived the Alvarez arc, while stating Lucy has "tension" with other guy(s).

So, if Mashima hadn't commented on Natsu and Lucy being the most "suitable" paring, and/or had Juvia died on the Alvarez arc, then NaLu wouldn't have a chance? Does the pairing depends on author's commentary and Juvia's well-being? That makes NaLu sound forced

And when it comes to the claims of tension, remember the definition(s)? So, according to shippers, Lucy will end up with Natsu, but she gravitates towards someone else, probably because she feels sexual desire for this person, and the only way to resolve that kind of tension is having sex with the other guy... That doesn't make any sense

The issue is that Natsu doesn't fit the romantic cliché several shippers want. He's too quirky and dorky, he’s not sexy enough, he doesn't throw corny or cheesy one-liners, and he's not actively seeking romance for he's inexperienced in that particular field. But, even without clichés, he bonded with Lucy to the point of being completely comfortable with the child he could potentially have with Lucy: Nasha

To the point of offering most of what a relationship needs to grow into something stronger and deeper, as explained in another analysis, Natsu provides Lucy with a sense of adventure that brings her joy and excitment as well as giving her both emotional and practical support

All of these are traits that make romantic relationships prosper. The more you break down the reasoning shippers present, the less sense it makes. For example, did Natsu's meaningful gestures to Lucy depended on Mashima's commentary?

Did their most powerful moments happened only because Juvia served as some sort of deterrent to other premises?

Shippers may say or imply that's case. But, what the author's works convey is something entirely different. Their bond is stronger, not because of Juvia or interviews, its strength comes from the chemistry they built through the profound effect the had on each other. The tension they have, it's only there to keep us waiting for their eventual relationship upgrade.

[willowfolksong]

Introducing: the family

- Ushijima Wakatoshi x Reader

- SFW

a/n: omg anon I'm so sorry, but I don't know what happened to your request. Everytime I tried to answer it I got an error??? and I don't really know why? so I took a screenshot and now here it is! that's why please, if you see this, pretty please let me know, so I can rest and know that you saw it 🥺❤ and thank you so much for your words!!! I enjoyed writing this a lot ✨

Love,

Willow ❄

Requests are open! ❄

You turn around so fast that Ushijima actually has to take a step back, to avoid the cake on his hands to slip and fall to the ground.

He looks at you curiously, as you chew on the edge of your own scarf "Is there something wrong?"

"No, not really"

"Then why are we standing here?"

You look back at the door. The Hinata's entrance door, decorated with a sparkly 'Happy birthday' sign in pink and yellow letters.

You grimace, and look back at your unperturbed boyfriend.

No. Fiancee. You're getting married.

The butterflies that flutter around in your stomach at the thought are not enough to ease your nerves.

"Okay, let's rehearse this one more time" you say, and after changing his weight from one foot to another, Ushijima nods obediently "When you see Shoyo, you'll say..."

"Hello" Ushijima chants, knowing the words by heart now "It's good to see you"

You nod enthusiastically "Very well. And when you see his boyfriend?"

At that, Ushijima's right eye twitches slightly, but he still complies "Hello, Kageyama. How are you?"

You picture Kageyama's scowl in your mind, and shake your head wildly "I think is safer if you don't ask him anything"

"Why not?"

"Just... stick with saying that it's nice to see him again too"

Ushijima looks like he really, really, doesn't wants to say that, but after a pause, he speaks again "Hello, Kageyama. It's good to see you again"

Now comes the hard part.

You take a breath, and push some strands of your hair behind your ears "Alright. Now. Let's go over the topics we need to avoid"

"I won't bring up that Shiratorizawa is doing better than Karasuno" your boyfriend repeats, and you suppress the urge to contradict him, your Karasuno spirit almost betraying you. You might be a college student now, but you're still flying high in your heart "I will not talk about any match, or refer to any mistake in their games. I will also not antagonize them as players, and won't bring any volleyball discussion in general at the table"

You smile, proud, and step on your tiptoes to kiss him on the lips. Ushijima meets you halfway, smiling against your lips.

"That's perfect"

"I want you to be comfortable. And I want to make a good first impression in front of your parents, so I won't forget any of this"

"Oh, shit!" you gasp, sudenly panicking "My parents! We need to practice for that too! I've been so focused on you and the boys that I forgot..."

The door behind you opens in that exact same moment, cutting you off and making you take a step back closer to your boyfriend.

Natsu blinks at the two of you, confused, before her eyes light up at the sigh of Ushijima.

"You must be the boyfriend!" she squeals, and looks about ready to jump in his arms, cake be damned.

Ushijima looks at you for a moment, before his eyes go back to your little cousin "Hello, my name is Ushijima Wakatoshi. I'm very pleased to meet you"

Natsu's face erupts in a furious blush, and she covers her mouth with her hand to try and muffle her giggles "So polite! Like a knight!"

"Hi, little Natsu!" you say, amused at the fact that she's paying zero attention to her actual cousin "Good to see you again!"

The little girl finally looks at you, and smiles awkwardly before stepping aside "Hi! Come on in!"

Once inside, Ushijima turns to present the cake to her, small smile in place.

"Happy birthday. I hope it's of your liking"

Natsu quickly snatches the box out of his hands and runs to the kitchen, laughing in delight.

You sigh, and yell "Happy birthday!" to her before turning back to your boyfriend.

He has taken off his scarf to hang it on the coat rake by the door, and it's looking around curiously, hands behind his back.

It's time.

"Come on" you say, offering him your hand. "Time to face battle"

"I dont think this will be a battle at all"

You're two steps into the living room when you hear Shoyo running down the stairs and stopping a few feet away from you, huffing.

And, not a second later, Kageyama appears righ behind him, scowl in place.

Well, that was fast

"Hi Shoyo!" you great him, and he waves at you with a little smile before his eyes slide over Ushijima.

Your boyfriend nods "Hello. It's nice to see you"

Kageyama snorts, and Shoyo discretely elbows him before answering, still smiling "Same. Thanks for coming to my little sister birthday"

Ushijima nods again, and looks at Kageyama, still hiding behind the much more shorter Shoyo "Hello, Kageyama. It's good to see you again" he repeats, exactly the same words you practiced it.

When he looks at you for approval, you squeeze his hand proudly.

"Whatever" Kageyama deadpans, and turns around to run back up the stairs.

Shoyo blushes profusely, bowing in apology "I'm so sorry! He's just... I'll talk to him!" he says, and rushes behind his boyfriend.

You puff your cheeks, and look up at Ushijima. He's looking for something around the kitchen "Well, that was better than what I expected"

"Where are your parents?" he asks, and you scratch your chin in thought.

"Probably in the backyard. Why?"

Ushijima looks down at you, raising an eyebrow at your question "I want to meet them, and introduce myself"

"Right"

"As your future husband and father of your children"

Your face burst into flames, and you softly smack his chest "Yeah, well... don't say that. Unless you're alone with my mom"

"Why? You don't want to have children with me?"

"Oh my god" you whine, pulling him with you to the place where you think your parents are "We're not having this conversation at my little cousin's birthday"

Your parents are, indeed, gathered around a table with the cake and the rest of the food on the backyard. Shoyo's parents are also there, as well as most of your family. Natsu stops jumping around as soon as she sees you, and rushes to your side to grab Ushijima by his free hand and pull him and you towards her parents

You don't miss your mom squeal of delight.

"Look! It's cousin's boyfriend! He's so tall!" Natsu says, and looks up at Ushijima with the biggest smile ever.

You clear your throat, amused at her evident crush "I'm here too, you know"

Your mom cuts everyone off, rushing to stand in front of you, with your father in town.

"Well, well! If it isn't the famous Ushijima? We've heard so much about you!"

Ushijima bows "Please, you can call me Wakatoshi"

Your mom literally swoons. Your father, however, doesn't seems that enthusiastic. He glances at Shoyo's father and nods, before looking back at Ushijima and crossing his arms over his chest.

"Say, Wakatoshi" he says, putting an exaggerated amount of emphasis in the name. Your roll your eyes "You play volleyball, right?"

"Dad..." you whine, but he only raises a hand at you, before talking again.

"Yes, I do" answers Ushijima.

Your father grins "Then tell me, quick. Addlers or MSBY Jackals?"

"Actually" Ushijima says, not missing a beat "The Addlers are interested in having me join their team when I finish college next year"

Silence.

You gulp.

Your father's grin slowly morphs into a big smile, and he pats Ushijima on the shoulder "Good answer, son! Tell me more about that!"

Shoyo's father huffs from behind, glaring at the two of you— clearly displeased by the choice of team— but your father ignores him in favor of dragging your boyfriend with him to the table.

The rest of the day passes by quickly and without any incidents, until dinner time comes, and Natsu blows the candles and makes her wish before you can all start eating.

Hinata sighs, and aggressively whispers something in Kageyama's ear.

His boyfriend doesn't bulges, and instead cuts a big chomp of meat and stuffs his mouth before pointing at Ushijima with his fork "Hey!"

You whisper "Oh my god no", and place a hand over your boyfriend's thigh under the table.

Ushijima swallows his food before answering "Yes?"

Kageyama seems a bit taken a back by the acknowledgment, but is soon frowning again "What's that that you're signing with the Addlers?"

"They want me in their team"

"Really?"

"Yes. Why?"

Kageyama chews in thought before answering, while cutting another chunk of meat and this time glaring at his plate instead "The Addlers are the best team there is right now" he says.

Shoyo's smile freezes in his face "You mean the MSBY Jackals are, right?"

"What?" Kageyama asks, raising an eyebrow at his boyfriend "That's dumb. Of course not"

"Statistically speaking" Ushijima intervenes, taking a sip of his drink "The Addlers had a much better performance this year. They are, indeed, the superior team"

Kageyama grins maniacally and turns to look at his boyfriend. Shoyo only squints his eyes at Ushijima.

"Is that so?"

"They're known for having much better reflexes, and the most successful serves as well" Ushijima keeps going, before you squeeze his thigh while trying to maintain your smile, and he turns to you, apologetically "I'm sorry. You did said no volleyball talk"

"Right"

Shoyo and Natsu's mom stands up then, clapping excitedly "Now, now! Presents time! Let's all clean the table up so we can start!"

Natsu is the first to follow, laughing in delight and rushing past everyone. Ushijima diligently gathers both of your plates and glasses, while Shoyo also does the same, ignoring Kageyama's complains about not having finished yet.

In the haste of everyone standing up and trying to clean as soon as possible to leave room for the presents for the overly excited Natsu, you lose sight of your boyfriend, until you hear a loud 'clash' and one of your aunts horrified gasp.

You run to the source of the noise to find Ushijima laying on the ground, broken plates all around him— his own glass of juice apparently intact in his hand.

Shoyo snickers quietly besides him "Ups! Sorry, my bad!"

"Shoyo!" her mother chastises him, but your cousin only shrugs unbothered, his own dishes tightly clasped between his arms.

"I just thought he would have better reflexes and all"

You come near your boyfriend when he's already back on his feet, eyes on his stained t-shirt "Are you okay?"

He nods, and turns towards where your mom and dad watch the scene unfold, bowing his head in apology "I'm deeply sorry"

"Oh, honey. It's okay! Really"

"I promise I'll be more careful with the dishes in our engagement dinner party"

Once again, the deafening silence.

Your mother gasps, covering her mouth with both of her hands, while tears of joy rush to her eyes. Your father gapes.

Kageyama whistles from somewhere behind. Shoyo's mouth hangs in shock.

You blanche "Toshi..."

Ushijima seems slightly worried, glancing down at you "I assumed they knew?"

"YOU'RE MARRYING HIM?" Shoyo screams.

'Well— you think, while watching your family gush over your soon to be husband— At least no one is talking about volleyball anymore'

[megukins]

Shower Shenanigans 💦

𓆩♡𓆪 Timeskip!Hinata x fem!Reader

𓆩♡𓆪 genre: smut

𓆩♡𓆪 synopsis: You decide to walk home with your boyfriend to his house, but when you arrive, he has something else in store.

𓆩♡𓆪 a/n: This is MSBY!Hinata and Natsu is aged up as well.

𓆩♡𓆪 warnings: smut, shower sex, anal, etc...

𓆩♡𓆪 word count: 1.1k

"How are you not tired yet?" You giggle, as you walk with your boyfriend to his house.

"I'm just a really energetic guy!" He beams. You two finally make it to his house as Natsu lets you in.

"Y/N!" She runs to you as you give her a tight hug.

"I missed you too..." Hinata mumbles, feeling jealous.

"I didn't forget about you, Shoyo." She says, walking up to him for a hug.

"So how was practice?" She asks.

"It went well. We have to go up against a real powerhouse team, but we'll win for sure!" He explains.

"What about you?"

"It was good. We won the match from yesterday!" She says proudly.

"Wow, that's amazing!" He smiles brightly, rubbing her head. You stay in the background smiling at the heart touching moment.

"Anyways, are you hungry? I can cook you something if you want, or do you want Y/N to cook for you?" She teases as he blushes a little.

"I ate already, thank you very much! Hey, Y/N, can you follow me right quick? I wanna tell you something." He grabs your hand and leads you to the bathroom.

"Sho, why are we in the bathroom?" You ask him not understanding, as he closes the door.

"Do you wanna shower together?" He asks, looking directly into your eyes. You think about it for a minute, then agree.

"Are you sure? Your sister is literally downstairs and she can hear what's going on." You say, hesitant.

"She won't, trust me. Besides, I need to take one anyway because I'm all sweaty from practice." He smiles, as you smile back. He discards his shirt, then follows his shorts and underwear. You do the same, discarding your matching blue bra and panties. He turns on the water, as you hop in front of him, as he caresses your curves. He smirks and lathers some body wash on his hands and rubs it up and down your back, eventually grabbing your cheeks.

"S-Sho!" You squeak.

"Sorry, you're just looking really sexy right now and I can't help myself." He rubs up closer to you as you can feel his balls rub up against your ass cheeks.

"W-what happened to the sweet Sho I know?" He says nothing, pushing you roughly but not too rough against the front of the shower wall, your boobs pressing into it.

"Damn, Y/N the things you do to me." He says, seductively in your ear kissing it. He bends you over, lining his cock inside your asshole, giving him easy access from the wetness of the shower, making you moan as they vibrate off the walls.

"Shoyo, Y/N! Is everything all right? You two are quiet and that's not like you!" She shouts, her footsteps being heard walking up the stairs.

"Shit! Sho, Nastu is coming!" You warn him, it not being effective as he continues. She nears the bathroom door hearing water run. He thrusts into your ass repeatedly rough as you try to muffle your moans.

"I-I'm close..." He gives you a heads up. You should've known something was wrong with him since he's been more on edge lately, the reason being he was feeling very horny. His load paints your asshole, making it sticky, your legs feeling weak.

"P-Please Sho, s-stop..." You turn around, the sight enticing him even more especially since the water dripped all over your body making your features even more sexy. Your boobs were wet and your buds poked out. Your pussy was wet but not only from the water. Your thighs were wet and your hair. He looked into your E/C orbs, and could tell you wanted this. You were ogling his body as well.

His locks were wet and messy, and the water was dripping all over his body from head to toe. His tone abs were wet as well. You look into his brown orbs, seeing that he was determined to please you.

Unfortunately, the moment was interrupted. She walks in thinking it could be you in the bathroom washing your hands. You two stand there like a deer in headlights.

"O-OH MY GOSH I'M SORRY I-I THOUGHT- N-NEVERMIND!" She walks out closing the door fast, blushing ruby red.

"Now we scared the poor girl to death!"

"How was I supposed to know?" He says, as you two dry off quickly, putting your clothes on.

"I told you she was coming..." You say, shaking your head.

"Are you mad at me?" He asks.

"Come here." You say, giving him a hug ruffling his hair. You decided to stay over his house since you were too lazy to walk back home and he didn't want you out late at night walking.

"Wanna watch a movie?" He asks, you two cuddled together in the bed.

"Sure, it doesn't matter which one." You tell him. You get up to remove your pants to get more comfortable, you now in just a tank top and panties and lay back down, hearing him clear is throat.

"I don't know what to watch, I was hoping you would decide. Or we could watch a show instead?" He suggests.

"Or we could fuck you know~" You smirk, seeing him blush a bit.

"W-we practically did in the shower. Besides, I don't have a rubber on me and we'll get caught again."

"What if I like getting caught?" You scoff.

"You have a kink like that?"

"There's plenty of kinks I have that you're unaware of. Tell you what, instead of watching a movie we can just cuddle. I barely see you, you're always playing volleyball with Atsumu and the others." You say, feeling lonely.

"I'm so sorry! If it weren't for volleyball, I would definitely give you all the attention you want!" He breaks away, the tone in his voice different from his usual chirpy one.

"It's all right Sho! Now hush and cuddle me." You push his face into your tits, missing the warmth that radiates through him. You two make out a few times and eventually fall asleep in each other's arms, as Natsu checks up on you two, smiling at the touching sight and closes the door quietly.

© 2022 this work belongs to @megukins DO NOT repost OR plagiarize on any other social media

[dira333]

The Road Not Taken - part 18

Shibi x  female reader with a name - arranged marriage

Summary: Airi Nara seems a hopeless case, until her grandmother sets her up for an arranged marriage. But was marrying Shibi Aburame the right choice after all?

Masterlist ; Character sheet (now with Natsu)

Taglist open if you want to be added

As hard as it is, you have to change some things.

You cut your hours at the hospital even more, down to one day per week that you use to train someone as your replacement.

With the help of Shibi and Chiasa the entirety of the Aburame Clan is informed about the regular hours you will take patients, making sure that you have enough rest each day even if an emergency should occur.

-

The last part is the hardest. 

You sit down Iruka, cry silent tears the whole time you’re explaining what’s going on.

“It’s okay,” he promises, grown so much in the few months he’s been a teacher now. “It’s okay.”

But it’s not, you can’t help but think. 

Naruto deserves so much more than he’s getting and you’ll never be able to give him all you want to give. 

Explaining it to him seems a little easier, though who knows how much of it he understands right now.

“You can always come over,” you promise. “Have Dinner with us whenever you and Iruka feel like it, okay?”

Curiously, the boy touches the swell of your stomach. 

“There’s something growing inside?” He asks, clearly confused. 

“Yes. A girl. Her name’s going to be Natsu. Torune picked that name.”

“Natsu.” Naruto grins. “That’s a cool name. Hey Natsu, you need to get out of there fast, so that we can play together.”

-

You politely decline Yori’s next invitation for lunch, delivering the overdue news of your pregnancy through Shibi.

For a whole week everything turns blissfully silent on her end. It’s clear that she’s mad. As a Clan elder you should have informed her earlier, but you can’t feel guilty. It has become clear that you need to limit contact.

Her next invitation comes through Shikaku, his tired eyes telling you more than his words. 

“Don’t agree to it,” he follows up. “I didn’t tell you that if anyone asks, but you really need to rest. I can see how much good it has been doing so far.”

Natsu chooses that moment to kick you and you flinch.

“I’m not sure if the baby agrees or disagrees with you, but I’m not in the position to waddle all the way to the Nara compound anyway. Not in this heat at least.”

Shikaku grins. “I’ll let her know. If she wants to see you, she’ll have to come over during business hours.”

“Something like that. I’m sure Shibi will be delighted to see her again.”

The door opens, Torune peaking through.

“Hey,” you smile, waving him over, “You’re home already? Come here.”

“I don’t want to disturb.”

“Nonsense,” Shikaku straightens a little, watching him with a smile. “Airi mentioned you’re showing great progress. Have you ever played Go?”

“A little,” he admits, leaning into you now, careful not to touch you with any bare skin. “Shino showed me.”

“Great. Are you up to a game? Your mother always gets distracted.”

Torune blushes a little at that, like he always does when someone calls you his mother. But he slides into the chair next to you, leaning close as he plays. 

Soon, he’s going to be signed onto missions, gone for days or weeks on end. You don’t want to think about it, want him close a little while longer.

“What do you think about going to the Onsen on the weekend?” You ask when the first game ends and Shikaku sets up the next. “Just the two of us?”

Torune smiles. “I’d love that.”

-.- Shibi -.-

Natsu is going to be born in the winter. 

With everything else going on, the renovations aren’t going to be done in time for her birth but he agrees with you that next spring is going to be just as well.

After all, he still remembers how tiny Shino had been those first months, the crib too big for him.

Still, planning everything is taking a toll and he’s starting to understand why you left that to him, going to the Onsen with Torune instead.

“Do you want to have your bedroom downstairs?” He asks Shino, going through the sketches. “We could have you and Torune sleep downstairs. Natsu could take your room and Torune’s room turns back into an office.”

Shino considers that for a moment. “Someone has to sleep downstairs, right?”

“Yes,” Shibi nods. “Someone will have to sleep downstairs.”

“Natsu should sleep downstairs. Why? I had my room first,” Shino begins, stubbornness audible in his voice. A knock on the door cuts him off before Shibi can do so.

“We’ll talk about that,” he tells his son before making it over to the door, surprised to see Yori standing there.

“I am here to visit my great grandchild,” she announces with that air of arrogance Shibi has always disliked.

“Shino,” he calls for his son. “Your grandm-”

“Not-” Yori’s face turns red with barely concealed rage. “Your unborn child. My great grandchild.”

“Ah.” He doesn’t move and confusion appears on her features.

“Well? Aren’t you going to let me in?”

“No.”

“What’s that supposed-”

“You are not welcome here,” he tells her with the authority of a Clan Head and a Shinobi, stepping forward and closing the door behind him, keeping this conversation from Shino’s ears. “Until you change your ways. You are belittling my wife and you are belittling my Clan. Your great grandchild will be raised as the Aburame it is and as you don’t seem comfortable around insects, I suspect you should cut your losses now.”

“It will be half Nara-”

“So?”  Shibi stares her down. “This child will know that it is loved and cherished. If you cannot do that, you are not wanted here. Goodbye.”

“You cannot do that!”

“Watch me.” He closes the door in her face this time.

The Aburame Clan might often be forgotten, but they have learned to turn the tables.

-

Your cheeks are glowing when you return, Torune’s just as pink as he trudges next to you up the stairs, hair mussed and limbs loose.

“Was it nice?” Shibi asks, hugging Torune and kissing you as long as his children’s watchful eyes allow. 

“Very,” you beam before flinching. “But Natsu’s just as energetic as ever.”

“I am beginning to think she wants more attention. Why? She only kicks when we’re seemingly forgetting about her.”

“That could be true,” you agree with a grimace, rubbing a hand over your stomach. “Though she could be a little nicer about it. Are you guys hungry? I think we’re going to take a quick nap before Dinner.”

“Rest,” he agrees, kissing you again even though Shino’s already groaning in the background. “I’ll prepare the food.”

-.- Airi -.-

Kaede Aburame is born on a sunny morning in September, your legs numb from being up for hours.

Toshiko’s sweaty and teary-eyed, thanking you profusely as you hand her her second child.

“Look at him, oh, look at him Kenji,” she whispers, sinking into her husband’s chest as he brushes a single finger over Kaede’s plump cheeks.

And it’s not your first birth but it hits different this time.

Maybe because it’s Toshiko, who’s quickly turned into your best friend, who’s your sister in law and so much more, or Natsu’s birth drawing closer.

You long for Shibi’s hand to hold, surprised to step him into the room only half an hour later.

“Muta is awake,” he announces quietly, Torune and a sleepy Shino by his side. “The elders will be here soon.”

Shino cuddles into you, arms wrapping around your torso to press his face against the swell of your stomach, a greeting you’ve grown accustomed to.

“The Ritual,” you guess and Shibi nods, leaning into brush his lips across your cheek in greeting. 

“You can go home if you need to rest,” he offers quietly but you shake your head. “I am fine. I want to be here.”

“It’s my first time attending too,” Torune admits just as Shino nods as well. “Mine too.”

“Oh?”

“They’re family,” Shibi explains briefly. “Family members should always be present if possible, each of them offering one of their own insects to the new host.”

“So Kaede could become host to any of the insects that are present?”

“Or a different one,” Torune adds quietly. “My father’s and my Rinkaichū were not part of our family before.”

You want to ask more, but the Elders arrival disrupts the bubble of calmness you had occupied.

Soon enough, you find yourself pressed against the wall in the small room, Torune to your left and Shino to your right, both boys holding your hands.

Toshiko’s resting, watching Kaede who’s being offered as a host, alone, in the middle of the room.

You can’t help but think of yourself in her position.

Soon you will be, watching as Natsu is presented, your family members surrounding you and the baby.

You wonder if Toshiko is afraid. Does she think about the possibility of Kaede taking to Torune’s Rinkaichū? Becoming a host that cannot be touched? 

Are you afraid?

You squeeze Torune’s hand at the thought and he squeezes back as if he knows what you’re thinking.

Then, all of a sudden, Kaeda squirms, letting out a wail. Just a few steps away, Kenji lets out a sigh and Muta, usually so calm, presses his hands against his mouth, breaking his posture.

You want to ask but you don’t dare to break the tense Silence, don’t dare to step forward even as Kaede starts to cry.

Anxious, you watch as Shibi eventually moves forward, picks up the baby and delivers it to Toshiko’s arms.

“The Ritual is complete. Kaede has become host to the Shōkaichū.”

“That’s Muta’s kind, Mom.” Shino explains as Muta crosses the distance, settling next to his mother, reaching for his little brother. “I wonder if he’s proud.”

“Would you be proud?” You ask. “If Natsu got your kind?”

Shino considers that for a moment. “I don’t really want to share,” he eventually admits and you can’t help but bark out a laugh.

“You’d only have to give them two, though.” Torune points out. “They will take it from there. They’d be your Kikaichū’s children.”

“I’m to young to be a father,” Shino points out and you’re fighting the laughter that wants to spill out.

“What’s so funny?” Shibi asks, walking over.

Instead of answering you move to kiss him. 

Later, when you’ve rested and the two of you are alone, you will tell him that you can’t wait. Just a bit longer and he’ll hold Natsu, will present her like he did with Kaede. You can’t wait for him to meet his daughter.

-

Snow comes early this year.

A thick white blanket covers the Aburame Compound, weighing down your steps as you make the distance to check in on Kaede, Shino sometimes traveling after you. 

Muta’s often training with Torune, but his free time is now filled with looking after his little brother, so Shino responds accordingly, watching his youngest cousin with curious eyes.

“Is Natsu going to do this too?” He asks often, when Kaede burps or ends up covered in spit up.

He doesn’t seem to mind though, Kaede’s quiet character making him easy to love.

-

Shino’s old crib gets refurnished, Naruto almost making enemies when he proposes to paint it a bright orange on one of his visits. 

The world outside has fallen into an almost peaceful slumber, the mission count going down in both risk and quantity.

You’re almost ready to burst by the time it’s ready for the yearly celebration of Konoha’s founding, but this time you get there early, stuffing yourself on the buffet next to Chouza while Shibi talks to the Clan Heads he needs to talk to alone.

“When is it due?” Chouza asks over Yakitori. You’ve begun to eat meat when you’re eating out, at least until the baby is here. Your iron levels have thanked you.

“In two weeks,” you tell him, flinching when Natsu kicks. “She’s ready to get out.”

“Ah,” Chouza nods. “An overeager one. Now, I know, Shikamaru took his sweet time coming out, but I still remember how we felt safe knowing Chouji’s due date was still a few weeks away only to have him surprise us a few days later. The little guy just wanted to taste real food, I’m sure.”

You laugh.

“I am keeping an eye on it, but her position isn’t right yet.”

“Ah,” Chouza smiles. “Like that would stop a determined baby.”

“Aburame-san!” Takeo Lee interrupts you at that moment, stepping closer. “My, how you’ve changed. Have I told you about my grandson before? Let me show you some pictures.”

-

Shibi’s quiet on the way home. 

The peace outside of Konoha’s walls doesn’t seem to bring piece to the inside. The tension between some Clan’s is stifling and you wonder if he’d like to talk about it. 

He hasn’t, so far. You know it’s safer for you that way, but you wish you could take those worries away from him, if just for one second.

“Do you wanna take a bath?” You ask, despite the late hour and the fact that you both showered in the morning. “I want to hold you.”

Shibi stops on the stairs, emotions flickering over his face before he nods.

It’s a quiet thing, these moments between you, the warm water kissing your skin with every movement

Shibi’s hands find your stomach, protective even when his mind is muddled. You draw a path into the mess of his hair, scratching his scalp softly.

“In case I haven’t told you yet, I am so so so glad that I got to marry you,” you tell him in the dim light of the bathroom. “You are the love of my life.”

-

The next morning brigns a fresh wave of snow, the paths the boys shoveled yesterday no longer visible. 

You send them all of with a kiss and a Bento Box, too restless to read yet not willing to step outside and make the short trek to Toshiko for second breakfast.

You change the sheets on all the beds, fluff up more pillows for the living room and the master bedroom before finally lowering into the bathtub with chocolate and the book you’ve been wanting to read.

Five minutes in you realize something’s wrong.

Natsu’s coming, but she’s still not turned the right way.

You try to get out of the bathtub, panicking. This isn’t the moment to be left alone.

But the water has made everything slippery and you almost crash onto the tiles, catching yourself at the last minute. 

“Breathe,” you tell yourself, “Breathe. You’re a doctor. You can do this.”

Dressing yourself in a towel you go through the options you have.

You can’t very well perform a C-Section on yourself, so you will have to try and turn her. You’ve only done that once before, the theory of it still in your mind even though the process hadn’t been successful back then.

“Who can help?” You mutter before realizing the obvious, creating a Shadow Clone. “Get dressed and get Chiasa. Tell her I’m giving birth and I need her help.”

-

Natsu is unwilling to move, her stubbornness already reminding you of Shino. 

Chiasa’s calling your name from the hallway and you never felt as relieved to hear her voice than today.

“Bathroom,” you call out weakly. She enters without knocking, something you would have hated on every day but today.

She takes one look before crouching down next to you, pressing a hand to your stomach.

“She won’t turn,” you explain, fighting against another panicked sob. “I can perform a C-Section if you help, but-”

“She’s an Aburame,” Chiasa cuts you off. “She will listen. Why? It is in her blood.”

“What’s that supposed to-” The baby’s movement cuts you off. Whatever Chiasa is doing seems to work.

“Even though she is not a host yet,” Chiasa explains calmly and this time, just for your sake, your sure, “Natsu is already responding to the hive. Were you bathing? She probably didn’t like the water.”

You sigh. “Fussy Aburames,” you joke. 

“Now that you’re out of the water and she’s turned, it might take a while until she is ready to come out,” Chiasa offers but you shake your head. 

“Nope, this girl is already on her way out. She’s an impatient one.”

And you’re right, less than an hour later the squirming bundle is resting on your naked chest, wailing at the injustice of a world that dares to bath her right away.

“Shibi is on his way,” Chiasa announces. “Do you want me to bring you clothes?”

You sigh. “That would be amazing.”

-

Now you’re in Toshiko’s place, resting on the bed as Natsu is offered as a host. She’s not the least bit like Kaeda, squirming and wailing and just overall unhappy about it all.

Shino and Torune are pressed against the wall next to Muta, both of them wearing serious expressions.

You should have known, you realize, that you would not be scared.

Wether Natsu receives the Rinkaichū or not doesn’t really matter. She’ll be loved either way.

“The Ritual is complete. Natsu has become host to the Kikaichū.”

“Which one?” You ask as Shibi move to sit on the bed beside you, not yet willing to give Natsu back. You lean into him instead, cradling her tiny head as she raises her fists, her face a dark red.

“Chiasa’s,” he explains quietly as the people filter out of the room, one after the other. You know most of them will be back tomorrow to congratulate you.

You catch her eye as she moves to leave and you shake your head, beckoning her to stay.

“Thank you,” you tell her as Shino climbs onto the bed as well, peering down at Natsu as Torune hides behind Shibi. “For everything.”

To your surprise she flashes you a rare smile.

“Of course.”

“Do you want to hold her?”

To your surprsie, Shibi pulls Natsu closer. You laugh. “As soon as Shibi is willing to let her go, I mean?”

A soft red bloom on his cheek. “Just one more minute,” he asks and as you catch Chiasa’s eyes you know she doesn’t mind.

-.- Shibi -.-

He doesn’t sleep that night, his body restless next to yours. 

But he doesn’t mind, content to stay awake and listen.

Natsu moves in her crib, the Kikaichū inside her multiplying by the minute. His mother’s kind is strong, resilient. Shibi has no doubt his daughter will be the same.

Would he feel different if she had taken to his kind? Would he be able to feel more joy than he already does? He doesn’t know. 

You sigh next to him, your body warm and pliant against his.

You are alive. Still, even after today’s events. Yes, you are tired and recovering, but you’re already laughing, teasing, living just like before.

You turn to your side and fart and he can’t help but laugh, rub your back as you snore softly.

Shino is sleeping on the other side of the hallway, Torune one door further down. His family is safe and he can’t hep but marvel at its beauty.

With a sudden sound, Natsu wakes, wailing. You move to rise but he stops you, already out of bed.

“I got it.”

But it’s not that easy.

Natsu keeps on crying, loudly, as he takes her down the stairs and into the kitchen, away from the sleeping members of the family, prepping a bottle for her.

She latches onto it with fervor, drinking it down only to spit up on his shoulder the moment she’s done, crying softly as he rocks her to sleep.

Shibi thinks back to Shino, the first year after his birth. He’d been a quiet baby, only letting out a noise when his hunger seemed unbearable or his diaper needed urgent changing.

He has a feeling that Natsu will be different.

Shibi kisses the crown of her head as she falls asleep in his arms.

“Welcome to the family,” he tells her and feels her Kikaichū respond in kind.

-

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[tangerinemoon]

Natsu SFW & NSFW HCs

Anon: Heyyy, can I request sfw and nsfw relationship headcanons about natsu with a fem s/o pls? Thank you!

warnings: f!reader, smut (18+ DO NOT READ IF YOU ARE UNDER 18), oral (f & m receiving), overstimulation, cursing, uhhh mentioned violence?

Ooooof thank you nonnie for requesting my husband

SFW

First and foremost: natsu is a hothead (literally) so be prepared to pull him out of a lot of fights

You guys will probably be in the middle of a nice lunch or rare relaxing moment in the guild hall and the next thing you know he’s gonna be challenging Gray to a fight.

“Natsu!”

“Gimme a sec! I’m gonna beat Gray and then we can go back to eating!”

Y’all are probably not gonna get back to eating

You’re either his moral compass or his biggest cheerleader there’s no in between

Help Happy run betting pools it’ll be fun

Speaking of Happy

That little exceed loves you

So much that Natsu gets jealous

“Y/N! Stop stealing Happy from me!” 

“Not my fault you don’t cuddle him enough!” “Aye!”

“Happy stop stealing my girlfriend”

PDA

Natsu probably didn’t understand it at first

Sometimes he wouldn’t touch you at all in public, like hold your hand or put an arm around you.

When you told him you wanted him to touch you more he probably didn’t really get it and would just like? Grab your ass IN FRONT OF EVERYONE

You’re gonna have to sit him down and explain what you’re comfortable with and what you’re not because let’s be real the boy is oblivious 

Cuddles

Behind closed doors Natsu is a monster

Needs to be curled up with you on the couch/in bed at all times

Expect a lot of Natsu/Happy cuddles 

Expect to get really hot too the boy is a living furnace 

Loves sleeping on your chest. Boobs make the best pillows 

“Natsu stop” you’ll whine and try to push him off but he’ll just grin and bury his face  deeper into your chest

“No, they’re comfy!” 

Doesn’t really matter the size. Boobs = Pillows

Ok back to the family friendly broadcasting

forehead/head kisses

Natsu’s favorite place to kiss you is either your forehead or the top of your head 

You could be a foot taller than him or shorter than him, it doesn’t matter, that’s where he’s gonna kiss you

Especially after an intense battle or if you got badly hurt. He’s going to pull you in his arms and kiss the top of your head. 

It’s his way of letting you know that he’s always here. 

NSFW

tbh natsu was probably a virgin when you met

That boy had a one track mind until he met you

You’re going to have to show him the ropes but he’s an eager student

If you’re also a virgin then he’s going to be extra sure your ready before taking that step

Biting/Marking and lots of it. His favorite place to mark you is the inside of your thighs. 

He’ll pin you to the bed and lay between your legs forever, nibbling and sucking at the soft skin of your thighs until finally moving to your center. 

Natsu loves going down on you. He will grip your thighs until he leaves bruises and lick at your core until you’re sobbing mess

Overstimulation 

Sex with Natsu is a lot, quickies aren’t really an option. He has too much stamina and wants to take as much time as possible with you. The more he can make you cum the better. 

“Natsu! It’s too much” he’ll look up from in between your legs, licking his lips and pressing a soft kiss to your thigh “C’mon baby, you can give me one more. Just one more before I fuck you ok?”

As much as he loves giving, the boy loves receiving too

If you truly want natsu to shut up: suck his dick

You can literally see his brain short circuit and his cheeks blush and adorable shade of pink whenever you take him into your mouth.

Yes the carpet matches the drapes 

He’ll grip the back of your head and thrust into your mouth all while letting out the most sinful moans you’ve ever heard. Until he can’t take it anymore and a)  spill down the back of your throat or b) pull you off and throw you down onto the bed 

Natsu prefers missionary most just because he feels like he’s closest with you there, but also really likes taking you from behind while you both lay down on your sides

From this position he can hold you against his chest and whisper in your ear about how good you feel clenched around his cock.

Likes cumming inside you the most,but will cum anywhere else if you ask him to

Cockwarming

Like i said the boy has stamina, he can go for hours and by the time you’re done, the two of you are so spent and satisfied he’s just going to stay inside for a while. 

“You feel so good, i don’t wanna pull out yet”

He will fall asleep there though, so be sure to shake him off eventually (please remember to pee after sex)

In addition to his never ending stamina, Natsu loves morning sex.

If he had it his way the first thing and last thing he’d do everyday is you

its one of the few times you guys fuck nice and slow. Both of you still a little groggy, he’ll just bury his face is your neck and roll his hips softly against yours until you both find your release, murmuring about how much he loves you

It was probably the first time he said it too. 

In conclusion: Natsu Dragneel is husband

[fanfic-chan]

Hi! A prompt, if you don't mind. Since there's not many content with Todoroki siblings, maybe some family bonding with lee Shoto and lers Natsuo and Fuyumi. Like, Shoto finally feels comfortable and close to them enough for cuddles and affection, and they realise their baby brother is touch-starved (and unexpectedly ticklish)

I- I cannot even put into words how much I enjoyed this prompt! I absolutely loved every minute of writing this and I'm so glad you decided to send it to me! Poor Shouto is so touch starved and I love every opportunity I get to give him some much needed love! I really hope you guys like it!^^

Better Late than Never

Lers: Fuyumi and Natsuo Todoroki

Lee: Shouto Todoroki

"Hey. Can you guys tickle me?"

Fuyumi couldn't even blame Natsuo when he promptly started choking on the soda he'd been drinking in surprise. Of all the things that she would have expected her socially inept younger brother to say, it certainly wasn't that.

The three of them had been hanging out in the living room together, watching some animated movies that Shouto had borrowed from one of his classmates, Izuku Midoriya. That green haired kid that he'd fought during the UA Sports Festival. 

Apparently, their youngest sibling had been doing some 'research' as he put it, on sibling bonding techniques, and had been interviewing a few of his classmates to figure out what they liked to do with their siblings. Tonight he'd suggested the three of them have a family movie night while their father was away on a business trip and he had some time off from school, an idea he'd gotten from his classmate, Hanta Sero.

Ecstatic that their little brother finally seemed ready to open up to them, they immediately agreed, and the three of them were currently cuddled up together in the impromptu blanket fort that Shouto had insisted was a must when it came to a proper family movie night because, 'Sero said so.'

And so it was.

Admittedly, things had been going pretty well up until now, when their stoic peppermint of a little brother had turned to them, family bonding list in hand, and had asked, in the most blank tone possible, if they could tickle him of all things.

"Shouto, um, if you don't mind me asking, what brought on that question?" Fuyumi asked after a moment, patting Natsuo's back firmly while he still struggled to catch his breath after almost drowning himself in Fanta. Shouto didn't even bat an eye at his older brother's near death experience, and instead kept his expression carefully emotionless. However, he was fiddling with the hem of his shirt slightly, as if he might be nervous.

"Oh. Well, Kirishima said he likes to bond with his younger siblings by tickling them. I'm the youngest, so I just thought maybe that's how it was supposed to go and that maybe we could do that too." He explained calmly, though there was a tad bit of barely noticeable apprehension there as well. "Is that… Wrong?" He asked hesitantly, tilting his head and taking on a rare expression of clear confusion as he started flipping through his notes again. Fuyumi couldn't decide whether the sight was adorable or flat out hilarious. Heck. Maybe it was a little of both.

"Oh! No! No of course it's not wrong! Just.. a little unexpected? I guess it's just surprising! Not bad though. It's good actually! Really good!" She answered hurriedly, not wanting to ruin this rare moment of trust Shouto was showing. He'd never really gotten the chance to bond with them properly when they were little, and his social skills definitely left something to be desired, so for him to be purposefully seeking out the opportunity to do normal siblings things with them? Especially things like physical displays of affection? Well, that was a pretty big deal.

He looked up at her and blinked, relaxing after a moment and setting his notes aside, seemingly satisfied with her hasty explanation.

"Oh." He said after a pause. "So.. You'll.. You'll do it then?" He asked quietly, and if she didn't know any better, it looked like he might even be blushing. Fuyumi couldn't help allowing herself a fond smile. When had her little brother gotten so adorable dang it?! There was definitely no way she could say no to that! 

Rather than giving a verbal answer right away though, she instead let her expression morph into something a tad more mischievous and looked over at Natsuo, who had by some miracle managed to recover from his coughing fit. "Hey Natsu? Remember that thing Touya used to do to us when we were kids?" She asked with a smirk, suddenly scooping up their little brother from behind and pulling him into her lap when he wasn't looking, catching him off guard. She quickly wrapped her arms around his torso, trapping him effectively while simultaneously preventing him from being able to bring his arms all the way down, leaving him exposed.

Natsuo looked just as confused as Shouto did for a moment before realization suddenly seemed to hit him. Back when they were younger, sometimes Touya would scoop one of them up into his lap and trap them there, then he'd warningly tell them, "Don't laugh or flinch at all or else~" and wiggle his fingers just above their stomach, occasionally pretending to dip his hand down before bringing it back up again. This would go on until eventually they'd break and he'd finally start clawing into their sides or ribs or armpits. It was never the same spot, and so the inability to guess or prepare for it always made it so much worse. They loved it, and hopefully, so would Shouto now that he would actually have a chance to play. 

He smiled slightly at the memory before crawling over to sit in front of his two siblings, the younger of them looking more than a little confused. "Um. What are you two doing? What did Touya used to do?" He asked, voice deceptively calm even as an anxious smile was starting to pull at his lips. Just because he'd never been allowed to participate didn't mean he hadn't seen his siblings playing this game before, and he had to admit, it was kind of exciting to finally be a part of it, even if he was a bit nervous.

"What do you mean 'what are we doing'? You wanted us to tickle you right? So what better time than now to teach our dear little Shouto about our favorite tickle game hm?" Fuyumi teased, making him squirm a bit in anticipation as he watched Natsuo slowly move his hands toward his stomach, which he sucked in instinctively.

"The rules are simple." Fuyumi began, "Don't laugh,"

"Or flinch at all-" Natsuo joined.

"Or else~" They finished together, and with that, the game had begun.

Shouto held up pretty good for about seven minutes. After all, due to both his extensive training on self control as a child and the countless tickle fights he'd already gotten into with his classmates back at the dorms, he'd managed to build up a fair amount of resistance, and he remained stubbornly quiet and still no matter how many times Natsuo tried to catch him off guard. That is until Fuyumi decided to cheat by pinching his side right at the exact moment Natsuo decided to bring his hand down again, and he arched his back in surprise right into his older brother's waiting fingers.

"GYAH- Ahahahahaha! No! Nohoho wait!! Fuyuhuhumi you cheheheheater!!!" He laughed, collapsing into his sister's chest as Natsuo started digging into his sides. "Cheater? Me? Are you hearing this Natsu? Shouto's accusing me of being a cheater! The nerve!" Fuyumi exclaimed, feigning outrage as she joined in by scribbling her fingers over his ribs and into his armpits, making him squeal adorably. By now, he'd been squirming around so much that his head had ended up cradled in her lap, giving her a perfect view of his joyful smile. The sight of her little brother, so happy and carefree in this moment, it almost brought her to tears, and she couldn't resist the urge to discretely snap a few quick pictures of the scene with her phone, both as a keepsake and to send to their mom later along with the others she'd gotten throughout the night.

"NONONONO!! NOT THEHEHERE! NOT THE FEET NATSUHUHU!! AHAHAHAHAHA!!!" Shouto honestly couldn't remember a time he'd felt this much joy. Tickle fights with his classmates were always fun, sure, but this? This level of closeness and affection being shared between him and his siblings right now? It was like having a hole filled that had been empty for far to long. He never wanted it to stop. 

"What? Not here? Why not? Is someone a little sensitive riiight here~?" 

"YEHEHEHES! I AHAHAM! PLEASE! PLEAHEASE STAHAHAHAP!!! I'M DONE FOR NOHOHOW!!""

Okay he didn't want it to stop, but maybe, um, maybe he did need to breathe though. His siblings seem to recognize this as well and quickly let up. He shot them both a grateful smile as he curled into a ball on his side, still giggling. This time, Natsuo was the one who couldn't resist the urge to record it.

"I.. I love you... Guys.." Shouto mumbled between giggles, and they both froze. Did- Did he really just?...

Shouto barely had time to process what was happening before he was literally being crushed in a bear hug between his two siblings, and despite his sudden inability to breathe again, he returned the embrace happily because maybe.. Maybe this is what he'd been missing all along.

[justauthoring]

The Long Wait

Prompt: Eventually, the hoping became too much to bare. Requested by: no one.

A/N: This is basically a remake of this fic -- upon re-watching the GMG arc with my mom, I couldn’t help but look back at this fic and realize how much more I could’ve done with it. Thus, this was born. Pairing: Gray Fullbuster x F!Reader

“What do you mean you’re leaving?”

Keeping your gaze trained to the ground, you absolutely refuse to look up -- because you know that if you did, your heart would break all over again.

“I’m sorry,” you mumble, words jumbled together, voice quiet that if the guild hall was so completely silent, they definitely wouldn’t have heard you. But they do, and they falter at the way you sound so absolutely broken. And of course, all of them were, but there was something different about the way you sounded -- it was like you were defeated. 

Macao steps towards her, you hear it rather then see it, and can imagine his hand stretched out towards you, trying to placate you. “Y/N, we understand--” and he halts, voice catching in the back of his throat. “We understand more then anyone how you feel, but--”

“It’s different.” You find yourself cutting in, voice sharp, and you wince at yourself because you sound so incredibly selfish and rude. Who were you to say that your pain was any different from theirs? Any worse? But, still, you continue, your emotions getting the better of you. “It’s just... different. I... I can’t be here knowing they’re... he’s gone.”

“Y/N-nee, we don’t know that they’re gone!”

Your eyes fall shut at the sound of Romeo’s voice.

“We have to keep searching for them,” he argues, defiant, adamantly shaking his head. “They’re somewhere out there, I know that. And Gray wouldn’t--”

“They’re gone,” you hiss, interrupting him and finally glancing up to regard your friends, your family. They rear back at your harsh words, and that guilt festers even deeper inside of your chest, with the way they’re looking at you. Jet and Droy look near tears, and you know they’re thinking of Levy. And Bisca and Alzack look in shock at your outburst, you’re usually so quiet and calm. Macao looks angry, and the rest just stare at you, varying reactions that all mesh together.

Because really, it’s the way Romeo looks at you, still so young, so full hope as your words basically slap him in the face.

But you’re too far gone now, and there’s no stopping you.

“It’s been two years,” you continue, voice softer but still cutting, still hurtful. “They’re not coming back. They’re never coming back.”

He’s never coming back.

They don’t respond. No one argues, even if some look like they might. Maybe they’re understanding, maybe they’re finally getting it -- it’s been too long now and no one from the island is coming back. You’d been hopeful at first, you’d been like Romeo -- you’d refused to lose hope. But your heart is broken and there’s no mending it and you can’t keep staring at those doors all day expecting, hoping, praying that he’ll walk through them only for him never to.

So, you turn, nothing but a soft, sorrowful, pathetic apology leaving your lips as you turn your backs on your friends and leave them.

And as you turn, you see his familiar face, the dark black of his hair, that drawling smirk on his lips, and his cold, but always soft when directed at you eyes looking at you, but when you blink, he’s gone.

-

You huff at the weight dropped around your shoulders, inhaling deeply when you see a familiar puff of blonde hair.

“Did you hear?”

You don’t need to ask what he means. It’s pretty obvious.

“Fairy Tail will be competing again this year.”

When you turn to look at Sting, he’s smirking -- all bright eyed and giddy, and you hold back your own snark as you regard him with a small nod. Sting was one of the few to know of the fact that you used to be part of Fairy Tail -- him and Rogue, given that they were the ones who recruited you, and then the master as well.

It wasn’t news you were eager for everyone to know. Fairy Tail was a laughing stock in all respects now, but Sabertooth seemed to have a particular fondness of mocking the way the guild had fallen. And it was easy to hide you’d ever been apart of it given you hadn’t been a particularly well-known mage back when you’d been a member. Your powers were relatively new, and with, regrettably, the help of the Twin Dragon slayers you’d definitely grown in aspects of strength.

Three years since you’d joined Sabertooth -- two years of training on your own, and three of being surrounded by much stronger mages had you adapting and constantly changing. You were practically unrecognizable.

You were known at Y/N of Sabertooth now, and it was like the Y/N of Fairy Tail never even existed at all.

“I’m surprised,” you hum, shifting as Sting moves to take a seat next to you, still whilst having an arm draped over your arm. You blink at the sudden arrival of Rogue, not having heard him, as he takes a seat in front of you, before continuing. “They weren’t in it last year, or the year before if I remember. After finishing last every year before.”

You hadn’t been apart of Sabertooth’s team, but you do remember watching.

It had been... hard, to say the least.

“Ah, well, this year they have a new team.” Rogue explains blandly.

“New members, you should say,” Sting smirks.

Brows furrowed, you shake your head at their words, confusion flooding at you at the particular gleefulness of Sting’s expression. He always got a kick out of embarrassing other teams, not even just Fairy Tail, but there was something different about the way his eyes sparkled.

Sting meets your gaze, and without wavering, adds; “or should I say, old?”

Your breath catches, and even as your mind starts spinning, you’re all too aware of the way both Sting and Rogue are watching you carefully.

You turn from Rogue to Sting, and absolutely hate the gleam in the latter’s eyes as he smirks down at you. Keeping a tight hold on you, he pulls you closer, leaning until he’s a breaths away; “it’s a good thing I managed to convince the Master to let you on the team this year, Y/N,” he grins widely, “you’ll get to reunite with your old pales.”

That... that couldn’t be possible.

They were--They were dead. They are dead.

“I... I need some fresh air.” Shoving Sting’s arm off of you, you ignore his calls and his merciless laughter as you stock out the guild doors, bypassing Minerva which you know will get you in shit later. You don’t really care in that moment, you can’t even think straight, you need air. 

You need to breathe.

Sting must be lying. He has to be lying. There’s... they were dead, it’s been seven years.

Seven years.

How... why now? Why after all this time?

And you convince yourself he isn’t lying. You ignore Sting every time he tries to talk to you, and focus on training. It would be no good if you failed since you were on the roster this year -- Master would kill you if you failed to impress him and keep Sabertooth at the very top. And it’s easy enough to do, spend all your time training, pushing yourself to the brink, until it’s a few days before the games and you realize, Sting wasn’t lying.

You’d been trying to ignore it, ignore the urge, but eventually you give in and find yourself in the city of Magnolia. A place you haven’t been in a long time.

Fairy Tail’s location had changed, but you’d made sure to keep tabs on them. You never showed your face, mainly because you knew that in the end, you’d betrayed your friends. In their eyes, you assumed, you were the enemy, a traitor. You’d left them, left your guild in a time they’d needed you most, and almost instantly regretted it.

But every time you tried to go back, every time you made your way towards those doors, you’d remember the words you’d said -- “They’re not coming back. They’re never coming back.” -- and, like a coward, you were never able to face them.

From the moment you’d left, all you’d wanted to do was go back but it was too late for that now. And so you settled for keeping tabs, helping them where you could, always in secret -- you knew how they owed money, and you didn’t have a lot, but you always anonymously send some the guild’s way in hopes of helping. Sabertooth would kill you if they found out, specifically Sting, but it was your way of repaying all the hurt you must’ve caused them.

It’s why you know their new location. And, without even being there for more then five minutes, you see them.

A blue flying cat, followed by a white one, a tuff of pink hair, red hair, blue hair, blonde and most importantly, him. His dark hair, the fact that nothing’s changed and he looks exactly like he had those seven years ago when you’d wished him good luck on the S Class competition, and pressed a shy, chaste kiss to his cheek, the two of you blushing madly as he left, waving you goodbye.

But, they were there. He was there.

-

“And last but certainly not least, is the team that came first in the preliminaries... that’s right, you know them, you love them! Now, get on your feet and scream for the most powerful guild in all Fiore! The one and only, Sabertooth!”

You wince at the cheering, two steps behind everyone else as Sting makes his grand entrance, looking thoroughly most pleased and proud of himself then anyone else. However, even you can see the smirk on Rufus’ and Orga’s face. 

If anything, it’s you and Rogue that don’t look all that excited.

And you, for a specific reason. One that stares you right in the face the second you walk into the arena.

Elfman, Erza, Lucy, Natsu, but more importantly, Gray all look at you the second your team arrives. You can even feel Fairy Tail team B, and the rest of the guild up in the stands watching you and only you. You also notice with disdain that Sting had purposefully made way for you to be seen, even if you hadn’t been that hidden, you would’ve rather remained in the shadows.

That, and you’re not exactly sure what to say as they all stare at you.

“Y/N?!”

It’s Natsu who yells it, but it’s Lucy who steps towards you, baffled and confused; “Y/N, what’re you...”

But you only lower your gaze, eyes falling shut as Sting pulls you into his side, laughing loudly. “What a reunion!” He cheers, pumping his fist in the air, before turning to you. “Isn’t it so great to see all your old guildmates, Y/N?”

You meet their eyes, just as the announcer calls out;

“What’s this? A reunion? Could it be perhaps that Sabertooth’s own Y/N Y/L/N was once a member of Fairy Tail? What a twist on her debut in the Grand Magic Games!”

“This is so not man...”

Turning your head at the sound of Elfman’s voice, your breath catches in the back of your throat.

“Elfman,” Erza says sharply, pulling your eyes back on her and thus the rest of them, noticing with a thick swallow the way her eyes have never left your own. “I’m sure Y/N has her reasons.”

But as she stares at you, waiting for you to say something, you simply turn, walking off.

“I didn’t know you used to be in Fairy Tail,” Rufus drawls to you when you pass him, and your shoulders tighten.

That’s right... now, everyone knew.

“You never needed to know,” you say simply.

“Y/N.”

“It seems Fairy Tail’s Team A Gray Fullbuster approaches Sabertooth’s own Y/N Y/L/N, and the crowd watches in anticipation at the clear tension amongst the two of them--.”

Everything freezes. Shoulders tensing, you slowly turn, meeting Gray’s eyes -- the one you’d been specifically avoiding.

“We won’t lose.”

I know, you want to say. I don’t want you to, you want to tell him. I want Fairy Tail to win, you want to plead. But instead, knowing the eyes that watch you, you simply say; “neither will Sabertooth.”

-

This had to be some cruel joke.

Your punishment, maybe.

Sabertooth’s Y/N Y/L/N versus Fairy Tail’s Team A Gray Fullbuster

That’s what the board said, that what that God awful announcer calls with clear joy in his voice -- your first battle, the second day of the Games, and this way the turn out.

There was no way you’d win. 

Ignoring the fact that you had no doubt Gray was stronger then you -- you simply just couldn’t. You wouldn’t. Not against Fairy Tail and certainly not against Gray.

“Good luck, Y/N,” Sting calls as you move to make your way towards the arena. “Though I doubt you’ll need it.”

You hate his words, hate the way he knows, hate the way he seems to get such joy out of everything that had happened. This was his fault. His fucking fault that you were here, and that this was happening.

Though, of course, even you knew that was true.

“Sabertooth’s Y/N Y/L/N has never been apart of Sabertooth’s team, but we can expect something great from Fiore’s strongest guild, needless to say. Do you know anything about Y/N Y/L/N, Yajima-san?”

“I don’t know much about Y/’N now, but in her Fairy Tail days, she never really made a name for herself, but I do distinctly remember her powers being incredibly unique.”

“Ah! A mystery then. And of course, Fairy Tail’s Gray Fullbuster is a Ice Wizard, but after his performance in day one’s Hidden Competition, the crowd’s not too sure what to expect. Nonetheless, it should be an intense match between old guildmates now turned enemy’s.”

“Shut up,” you hiss to yourself, nails digging into the palm of your hands.

“Ah, I see you’re just as chipper as you used to be.”

Swallowing thickly, you inhale sharply as Gray comes to a stop a few feet before you. It’s closest you’ve been to him since that first day, and more importantly, then in seven years. You’d already known since that day, but he really does look exactly like he had that day. Hasn’t aged a day. You don’t know the story, you don’t know how he’s back, but you know you’ve heard the term ‘seven year blank’ echoing around.

That makes more sense as you stare at him now.

Still eighteen, you’re now older then him then a year younger like you had been before. 

Remaining silent, your head tilts back, where you know Sabertooth is, chest tightening.

“Y/N.”

Turning to Gray at the sound of your name, your lips part when you noticed the way his eyes have softened, even if only a little, like he caught something in the past moment you’d turned away from him. He looks so much more... concerned then he had the first day, and that was only yesterday. When he’d called for you, he’d looked so angry...

Now, he only looked worried.

“What happened?”

Swallowing thickly, you try to appear unbothered. “I left.”

“There’s more to it, I know there is,” Gray shakes his head, “the others told us about the day--”

Eyes clenching shut, a simply jerk of your head has Gray flying back. It causes a roar of gasps, surprise and anticipation in the thought that the fight is finally starting. But you know, unlike them, that it won’t get farther then that -- at least not from your end.

Gray hisses, slowly crawling to his feet, before he smirks at you; “you’ve gotten strong.”

“It’s been seven years.”

“Still,” he shrugs, stopping before you once again. “You have control now.”

You shrug, mimicking him with a smirk, “it’s been seven years.”

However, the facade falls all too quick when he takes a step towards you. Your body tenses, fists clenching as he continues to make his way towards you until he’s directly before you. He eyes you for a moment, quiet, carefully, and you nearly break then and there.

“It may have been seven years, but I know you best,” he whispers, voice low, “I know you’re lying.”

You shake your head, pushing his words away from your thoughts; “attack me.”

And he blinks, surprised; “what?”

“I need you to attack me,” you repeat, keeping your eyes trained downwards, refusing to meet his eyes. “I... I just need you to.”

And part of you expects him to -- you deserve it, you know, after all you’d done.

But, a second later, Gray’s stepping back, pulling your wide eyes on him as he shakes his head; “Fairy Tail doesn’t attack their own friends, Y/N. You know that.” And your breath hitches when his hand moves to raise.

“No!” You yell, before you can help yourself, eyes flashing a bright gold, like they had seconds before, holding Gray’s arm in place as he blinks back at you. Letting out a soft whimper, one you hope he doesn’t hear, you hold his arm in place, eyes falling shut as your own arm raises, the crowd falling eerily silent.

“I give up.”

And you knew, even as you feel the glares on your back, that there really wasn’t any other outcome that could’ve happened. You’d never hurt Gray, you knew, and you refused to hurt Fairy Tail anymore.

You were destined to lose this match.

-

“What’s so special about those fairies, huh?”

Wincing, you gasp at the squeeze on your throat, trying to suck in air that won’t come as your eyes fall on Sting’s own narrowed ones, glaring down at you. The brick of the wall behind you bites into your skin, and you know his grip will leave bruises, but even as you gasp for air and it feels like your vision is closing in on you, you have no regrets.

You never would, even if it’ll get you killed.

“What’s so fucking special about them?”

You refuse to respond, even if Sting wasn’t blocking off your air way you wouldn’t. Even if you could easily knock him away, send him flying, you don’t -- you’ll only pay for it more later.

“What’s so special about him?!”

He drops you then, and you fall to your knees with a thud, a cry leaving your lips as he sends a sharp kick to your gut, causing you to double over. It takes you a moment, a solid minute to catch your breath, and even then you’re still gasping, voice raspy as you raise your chin, eyes narrowing as you say the words you’ve been wanting to say to Sting for years.

“Fairy Tail is the guild Sabertooth could never be,” you hiss, your voice pathetic but your gaze menacing. “And Gray is a better man than you’ll ever be. All of them are. You’ll never be as good as Natsu.” You hit him where you know it hurts, the words having been on the tip of your tongue for years but you’d always held back in fear of what would happen.

Well, you’re no longer afraid. You’re too far gone now.

Sting’s eyes narrow and his face twists, ready to explode, before he breathes, and a smirk curls onto his lips. “You’ll never be apart of your pathetic guild again,” he hisses, “you’ll be stuck in Sabertooth for the rest of your life. Only, Master will make sure your life is a living hell.”

He sends another sharp kick at your side, but says nothing more as he turns, walking off with a huff.

It takes you a moment to gather yourself, slowly pushing yourself up to your knees where you stay, chest heaving, the pain radiating across your entire body, fingers finding your neck and touching the offended skin gently as you hiss in response.

You didn’t regret surrendering, but you couldn’t help but be terrified of what would happen when you walked into the inn that night.

You never should’ve left Fairy Tail. It was a regret you’d probably take to your grave.

“We actually have points thanks to you.”

Blinking at the sound of Gray’s voice, you slowly glance up at him, arm still wrapped tightly around your stomach as you stare up at him.

“I’m glad,” you whisper, smiling gently, “Fairy Tail deserves to win.”

Gray sighs, and stepping towards you, he reaches a hand out; “here,” he says softly, voice a mere whisper. You meet his eyes, before glancing at his hand for a moment, slowly slipping your own in it. He helps you to your feet, holding you up as you waver, hissing in pain, and then, before you know it, before you can even help yourself, you fall against him, forehead pressing against his shoulder as you let out a whimper.

“You know,” Gray says after a moment, “I still remember that kiss.”

Shaking your head, you let out a quiet, somewhat forced laugh.

“What happened, Y/N?”

“You were gone,” you whisper, finally answering. “You all were, but you were too. And... And I couldn’t handle staring at those doors everyday waiting for you to walk through them, only for you never to.” Pulling back, you meet his eyes, “I love you, I wanted to tell you that day, and it crushed me that I never did.”

Hands falling on your waist, Gray shakes his head; “no one would tell me where you were when we came back. It’s like every time I asked, this look would come over them and everyone would fall silent. When I learned it had been seven years, I wanted to see you first and tell you... tell you, I love you too.”

Biting your lip, “it’s too late,” you whisper. “The others must hate me and I... Sting will never let me leave.”

Gray’s grip tightens. “They don’t hate you, Y/N. Everyone misses you. I miss you,” and then, he shifts, cupping your cheek to pull your eyes on his own again. “I need you to come back.”

“But... Sting--”

“We’ll figure it out, Master will figure it out,” Gray argues, shaking his head. “The Guild needs you. I need you.”

Lips parting, you try to find the words, only to realize there are none. So, instead, you simply fall into his arms, holding him tight against you and hold on to his promise.

[juviaafullbuster]

IN EVERY UNIVERSE

"JUVIAAAA"

He should have known. He should have seen it coming the moment he heard that blue cat call out her name. Of course nothing good would come from this. That stupid cat, exceed, whatever he is, was raised by Natsu after all.  But he didn't think much of it when he saw him flying towards Juvia, who was currently sitting with the other girls and landing in the middle of their table.

"Yes Happy?"

"Remember what I told you when we came back from Edolas?"

Happy was wiggling his tail excitedly, while trying to hold back from spilling the information immediately. After all, he lives for the drama. Juvia on the other hand was just looking at him, confusion written all over her face.

"Juvia isn't following.."

"You know, about the Juvia in Edolas and how the Gray there is obsessed with her.."

"Oh yes! Of course Juvia remembers that! The other Juvia is very lucky.."

"Yeah, and guess what? She got even luckier. Turns out they've got-"

"HAPPY!"

Gray had to stop him before he spilled too much. Why were they on the other side of the hall anyways? Juvia was always stuck to him whenever he came back from a mission. Why did she have to abandon him now of all times?

"What is it Gray? I'm busy delivering information."

"If you don't shut it that's the last information you'll ever deliver."

At that Happy visibly gulped. Gray was sure he was considering whether it was worth taking the risk. He probably still remembered the incident where Gray had declared him his enemy. Gray himself didn't remember much of what happened, just that it wasn't his proudest moment when he woke up half naked on an island surrounded by strangers. Now however, he was glad it had happened. At least that cat knew what he was dealing with and wouldn't dare to finish that sentence.

"Hey popsicle, are you threatening Happy?"

This just keeps getting better. Of course Natsu had to get involved as well. All he wanted was to enjoy being back home and spending some time with Juvia. And he wasn't doing either. Really, the last thing he needed was Natsu and his damn cat to ruin things for him.

"I don't threaten anyone unless necessary. So if you want to save him from trouble, tell your cat to back off."

"I'M AN EXCEED!"

"Like I care. Point is, shut up."

"HEY, DON'T TALK TO HAPPY LIKE THAT!"

"Stay out of it, flamebrain!"

"IF HAPPY IS INVOLVED, I'M INVOLVED."

"Whatever.."

He just needed to get to Juvia. There was no need to participate in the conversation with Natsu. Not that you could actually hold one. It would always end in a fight and if that idiot doesn't shut up soon, Gray was sure that this will be the case today as well. So he decided to be the bigger person and ignore Natsu, no matter how much he was provoked. However Natsu didn't get the message.

"What's up with you?"

"What do you mean?"

"You're being weird lately. Happy noticed too, right Happy?"

"Aye!"

"I'm not being weird, what the hell are you talking about?"

"I think it's because he's jealous of you!"

"WHY WOULD I BE JEALOUS OF NATSU?"

"He did tell me what happened.. is it because he has more woman than you?"

"What the hell are you talking about?"

"You know, that snow woman. He had quite a lot on his side, you however just had-"

"WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU?"

Like it wasn't bad enough that he was going to tell Juvia about their Edolas counterparts, she really didn't need to know about that whole woman in the depth of his heart thing.

"You're jealous of me?"

"Who's jealous of who?

"Gray is jealous of Natsu."

"Seriously?"

"NO!"

That's it. He's going to kill that cat. But first he'll have to deal with Natsu because he was costing him his nerves as well. So next thing he knew, they were throwing fists at each other until Erza forcefully stopped them.

"What is this about? Explain yourself before I pull out my sword."

"Grays being mean to Happy."

"That's because Happy is stupid! Probably got it from you.."

"SILENCE! Happy!"

"Yes?"

"Explain!"

"Well, Gray is being mean to me just because I wanted to tell Juvia about what we saw in Edolas. I don't see why he's so worked up over it, I mean I was just going to say that they're married."

"Who's married?"

"Gray and Juvia!"

Silence. The whole guild went silent. Well, except for Happys snickering. Gray could swear he felt his soul leave his body. He was certain he would never hear the end of it. After all, he could already feel the eyes on him.

"Gray and Juvia are married in Edolas?" It was Juvia who decided to break the awful silence. Happy nodded eagerly in response to her question.

More silence. Or as Gray would say, the calm before the storm.

"Is that true?" Juvia was looking at him with wide eyes. He knows her well enough by now to know exactly what was currently going on in her head. He could tell her imagination was going wild with wedding pictures. But she was clearly holding back from squealing, instead she kept staring at him, desperately waiting for an answer. Gray sighed.

"Yes.."

And then all hell broke loss. Mira was cornering him trying to find out as much as possible, while Cana kept adding her inappropriate comments. Elfman starting shouting something about marriage being manly, whatever that meant. By the time Gray had managed to escape from them Juvia was no longer in sight.

"Juvia?"

"She went outside, said she needed to cool down."  Lucy smirked proudly, making Gray fear her next sentence. "Good thing you're an ice wizard. Who else could cool her down?"

"Hilarious. I'm going outside."

"Of course you are."

Gray didn't bother reacting anymore. Instead he went to search for Juvia. The cold air outside hit him in the face. It wasn't until now that he realized how stuffy it was in there.

He distanced himself from the guild hall while keeping an eye out for his bluenette. He really had missed her during his mission and now that he was back, he wanted to spend as much time with her as possible. After all, he had finally acknowledged his feelings for her and after seeing their counterparts in Edolas and that vision he had been trapped in, it just made him long for her more.

Those feelings still freaked him out somehow. He wasn't aware that he was capable of feeling this much for someone. But Juvia had really broken down every single one of his walls. And he was really grateful for that. She was the one who kept pulling him back whenever he was close to the edge. She's his power to live, even though having admitted that so bluntly in front of her still got him all embarrassed. And her teasing didn't help one bit.

"Juvia!" He spotted her on a bench near the lake. She seemed lost in thought. When she heard his voice however, she immediately spun around.

"Graysama! Juvia is sorry for leaving so abruptly.."

"Don't worry about that. Are you okay?"

He sat down next to her. Usually he would leave a space between them, not wanting to give her any ideas. But things changed. And now here he was, sitting as close to her as possible, longing for her touch. Juvia smiled at him.

"Juvia is very happy that you're back."

"I'm happy to be back too. I.." He cleared his throat and looked away shyly. "I missed you."

"Juvia missed you too. Juvia was wondering whether you were doing alright, if you manged to stay dressed and whether the others bothered to pick up the clothes you discarded.." she kept talking but Gray was too focused on her beauty, wondering how he'd gotten so lucky having someone like her in his life.

"I want what they have as well." Gray had blurted out the thought before he could realize it.

"What who has?" Juvia questioned him. He could go back on his word, pretend he never said it. But what's the point? He was just making himself suffer by prolonging it. And he had promised her to be clear with his intentions once he got back, not that he got to finish that promise before he was swept back to Elentir. Point is, it was time for him to be honest.

"I want what Edolas Gray and Juvia have.."

"You want.. you want to marry Juvia!?"

"What? No!"

"No?"

This wasn't going the way he wanted it all. Gray sighed.

"One day."

"One day?"

"Yes, one day I'm going to marry you. But I think it's still a little early for that. To be fair, our counterparts in Edolas are older.."

Juvia just kept looking at him in disbelief. He couldn't blame her. It wasn't exactly his style to be so open and honest. They didn't start dating yet and he was already talking about marriage. Juvia had really impacted him..

"Listen. I want to be with you. Like Edo Gray is with Edo Juvia, like Fairy Nail Glen is with Fairy Nail Juvina.. I want Earthland Gray to be with Earthland Juvia as well."

"What's Fairy Nail? And who is Juvina?"

"That's a long story.. point is I want to be with you. I'm sorry I'm not as clear with my intentions as the other me. But that doesn't mean I want you less than he wants his Juvia.."

By this point Gray was a blushing mess. He couldn't bring himself to look at her, too afraid to see her reaction. He had literally just run her over with emotions.

"Graysama doesn't have to be sorry."

"Huh?"

"For not being as clear with his feelings. I feel in love with this version of Gray, the Earthland version. Juvia wouldn't change a thing about you."

Gray smiled at her. She was truly too perfect. How did she always know what to say? She seemed so calm and collected while he was literally trying his best not to freak out.

"And Juvia would like that very much as well. Earthland Gray and Earthland Juvia being together.." she was looking at Gray sweetly and he couldn't help the smile that took over his face.

"I promise to be the best version of myself for you."

"You already are."

They smiled at each other and Gray tucked behind the hair that had fallen into her face. He found himself leaning closer and he saw Juvia doing the same. He had just closed his eyes, just a little away from finally kissing her after thinking about it for so long, when a voice interrupted them, making them jump apart.

"Gray loves Juvia!"

"Quiet Happy!

"They are so cute together."

"About time he made a move."

How had he not seen them hiding behind that bush. He'll admit Lucy, Wendy and Charles were hidden pretty well, but Natsus pink hair and Happys blue fur were visible to everyone. And Erza hadn't even bothered hiding. He must have been too focused on the girl in front of him to notice. Said girl was now blushing furiously.

"I'm going to kick their asses.."

"Juvia thinks it's sweet that they're so supportive of you. You have a great team."

"How are they a great team? They literally interrupted a very important moment."

"Juvia knows.. but Juvia is very happy already."

"So you don't want me to kiss you?"

"Juvia didn't say that!"

He was truly enjoying teasing her. So much, he was able to ignore his friends presence. So instead of letting them ruin their moment, he leaned in and finally, after so long, kissed her. It took her a moment to react, but once she did, Gray felt like the luckiest person in the universe. He was never going to let her go.

"Juvia loves you very much."

"And I love Juvia very much."

He kissed her again, already addicted. His friends were cheering, probably happy that he finally made a move. He couldn't blame them, it took him long enough.

"All that because I told her about Edolas Gray and Juvias marriage. Imagine what she'll do when she hears about Greige.."

"Who's Greige?"

"HAPPY!"

♡♡♡

Here you have it, my contribution to Gruvia day! I hope you like it, let me know what you think :)

Also, I'm still fangirling over the drawing we got today. Maybe I'll write something about that too one day..

Anyways, happy Gruvia day! ♡

[needsnalu]

417: Lone Journey 2

There are a lot of debates regarding this chapter about being a NALU moment or not. But it's safe to assume that it's something reagrding incidents which happened in Tartarus Arc.

I wanna point out that, Natsu's behaviour in this panel is quite cheerful. Like he usually acts around. He met Gildarts in the middle of the forest and had a good time with him.

They had a fun battle as usual lol, Natsu didn't show a single sign of sadness. He was continuing his usual antics.

We even saw Happy acting pretty normal. Doing what they'd do if they were in the guild. Nothing new...

It was clear that they were slowly moving on from Igneel's death and Natsu was looking forward to the future just as Igneel said.

And then at night, Gildarts woke up and saw Natsu wasn't there. Which was pretty much surprising as Natsu is someone who loves to sleep. Him, not being in his "bed" in the middle of the night is not normal.

What I think is, in this panel Natsu was conflicted about something and he was surprised to see Gildarts. The look on Gildarts's face was as if he was telling Natsu that he should share what was bothering him and that Gildarts will be there to listen to him and he'll help him if needed. It's natural for him as he has always been a father-figure to Natsu.

When Igneel died right before Natsu's eyes, he told him to look forward to the future. And Natsu instantly made the decision to train for 1 year.

He wasn't in the right mind to talk to anybody about how that affected him. We don't even see him interacting to anybody after Igneel appeared. He didn't tell his decision to anybody, let alone Lucy. But he left a note only for her. Which means he wanted others to know that he'll be back within a year, especially her. He didn't want her to feel like he left her(and the guild members). He even considered that note as an important will which he gave only to her. It shows who Natsu values more in his life.

Now I would've surely said that it was something about Igneel's death if Natsu's expressions weren't like this. I mean in the first panel, he looks conflicted and it's almost like he doesn't know what to say next. And then he blushes and we all can tell from his facial expression that he's a bit embarassed and guilty.

If we see this from a normal perspective, it felt like(to me genuinely) that he was feeling guilty about leaving to train without confronting anyone, especially Lucy. He was trying to come up with excuses as to why he did that or maybe he was trying to say how he felt about that but then ultimately he couldn't hold back his guilt. It also may be that he didn't wanna talk to anybody about what happened or didn't wanna face anyone so he left without saying a single word. Because I honestly don't think it was about Igneel's death, I mean it's related to that but not exactly the same.Gildarts might've asked him about his sudden training which led to that.

Again, we can assume that he was particularly thinking about leaving Lucy despite there's no solid proof about this claim. But Lucy was obviously a part of this convo(he's the closest to her as I said earlier) if my assumption is correct about his guilt(leaving without a single word).

Although I don't think it's gonna happen but it would be great if Mashima decides to remember this chapter and Natsu's alone time with Gildarts in 100 Years Quest. It can be used as a good development point for NaLu. He can do that even after making them canon- like after getting together with Lucy, Natsu somehow remembers what Gildarts told him about his feelings that time(only if Mashima plans it lol).

Anyways! I'm sorry for taking so long to post this👀

And guyssssss make ナツルー Natsurū tag alive again!!!!