Chapter 6: Spell Song
AN: So one of my lovely guests informed me that I completely left off the translations at the bottom! I am so sorry. It must have gotten cut off and I didn't realize it! I promise I'll double check from now on, I didn't mean to leave y'all hangin ;) Thank you all so much for your incredible reviews, yet again! I'm so glad to continue gathering more followers and favorites as well! Y'all are amazing! I also wanted to announce that I have finally found a Beta! The wonderful Rein Serenity! I'm so excited to be working together and hope that this will allow me to provide y'all with an even better version of the story with a second set of eyes checking it for me! I know that a few of y'all were on the verge of finding me with pitchforks after Lucy and Natsu remained apart for yet another chapter, but I promise it'll be worth it! I'll make it up to you lovelies, I guarantee it ;) Thank you again for all of your follows/favorites and reviews! If you like the story, please share/like/read/review! I am not above plugging shamelessly for feedback! XD
I'll stop rambling now! Enjoy ;)
Chapter 6: Spell Song
Laying on her back, Lucy placed her tiny hand into the air and reached for the onyx expanse above her golden head. Chocolate eyes curiously searching the heavens as her mother's soothing voice washed over her and named each constellation with adoration lacing her tone. Raising an elegant finger to lovingly trace the lines of a string of orbs in the northernmost sky, Layla turned to her daughter briefly, to make sure she could locate them as well.
"Right there, between Lyra and Cepheus, is where his majestic head lies." Layla spoke reverently as her hand traced the familiar formation. "And his tail curls up and around Ursa Major and Ursa Minor."
Lucy watched in awe as her mother traced the beautiful dragon in the sky. She could imagine the cluster of stars as a great celestial being, jaws wide in preparation to breath life into a new constellation. Lucy knew that her mother was close to the stars, but it seemed as if this one drew her in more than most.
"Okaasan. Why do you love Draco so?" The young blonde moving ever closer to the familiar comfort of her mother's warmth in the chill of the night air. Turning to lock wide chocolate eyes to the smaller matching set below her, Layla gently smiled at her young daughter.
"Well, lets just say an old friend taught me how wonderful of a protector he tends to be." Layla's voice took on a tone of nostalgia and Lucy watched as her mother's eyes became glassy at the mention of her friend.
"Mama. Can I meet your friend? Will Papa let me?" Lucy's eyes widened as tears slipped slowly down her mother's gentle features.
"No, my sweet star child. That's because my friend has gone to join Draco among the stars." Layla fought desperately to keep the shaking from her voice as she thought of the crimson haired man who had taught her so much.
"Well maybe one day, when I meet Draco, I'll get to meet him too." Lucy's young face split into a wide grin as she sat up quickly to look down at her mother. Her golden waves fell haphazardly around her face, tiny freckles visible just on the bridge of her nose and her eyes shining with excitement.
"Yes. One day, I will introduce you to Igneel, my Lucy. When we both rest among the stars." Layla sat up, wrapping her arms around her beautiful daughter and praying that one day, she could live up to her promise.
Wrapped among her mother's arms, Lucy began to fill an icy chill slip down her spine causing gooseflesh to raise along her arms. Pulling away from the comforting embrace, her eyes wide with confusion, Lucy's gaze darted to take in her surroundings. The evening had held a slight chill, but nothing unbearable, that would cause her to feel such a bone chilling cold.
Panicking, her gaze returned to her mother, who seemed to be fading from her vision. Lucy leaned towards the woman, desperate to keep the image locked in her mind, despite the cold creeping into her bones.
"Okaasan! No! Please don't leave me!" Desperate now, Lucy watched as her mother's image became brighter as if a light were radiating through her. A gentle smile crossed her mother's elegant features as she smiled upon her daughter.
"You did grow to become a beautiful woman, my sweet star child." Her voice ringing in Lucy's ears, she gazed down to realize that she was once again in her present body. The one that her father had attempted to use as a pawn.
"Okaasan, why did you have to go to Draco before me?" Lucy could feel the heat pricking at the back of her eyes, signaling that the tears that were barely restrained had finally begun to fall.
No sooner had she mentioned Draco, that a red haired man appeared near Layla's image. His own glow was bright as the same light that was resonating from her mother. The crimson haired man had long locks tied back low on his head and his eyes shown a dark obsidian against the escaped fringe of hair that fell into them. A fang-like grin appeared on his rakish and scarred face as he approached Layla. Turning where their eyes had locked, Layla and the wild looking man smiled at Lucy before the light surrounding them faded.
Suddenly, Lucy felt all of the warmth from her dream escape her. Her lungs were burning and she felt as if the air around her had become nonexistent. She attempted to fill her lungs, yet instead of precious air, they filled with water. Panicking, Lucy began to scramble against the ground, attempting to reclaim the air that she knew should exist, the cold surrounding her forgotten for the moment. Suddenly she felt a warm hand wrap around her icy flesh and pull her to her feet and Lucy jerked upward, gasping as sweet air finally filled her burning lungs.
Eyes wide, she glanced around her, noting that she was no longer on the hillside of Crocus. She was no longer kneeling on the wide silken fabric that her mother usually brought outside for them to rest upon. She was instead, very much naked, frozen to the bone in icy water, in a porcelain tub of a guest room owned by Natsu Dragneel.
Kami, it was just a dream. She thought desperately as she struggled to calm her racing heart. Although, I guess the drowning part wasn't a dream. I wonder who it was that pulled me from under the water? Lucy's eyes scanned the now dim room, searching for the person who had saved her life.
Chocolate eyes noted that painted screen separating her from the rest of the guest room, but saw no one else in the area. Straining her ears, she attempted to pick up the sound of someone who may have been in the room, but decided to give her some privacy upon her regaining consciousness. Again, there was no sound other than the soft sloshing of the water against the sleek sides of the tub she was bathing in.
"Okay, that's it. I must have completely snapped now." Lucy muttered as she stood from the now freezing water to reach for the soft linen to dry herself from her bath. The sweet smell of sakura blossoms, vanilla and lavender emanated from her skin as she toweled her abused flesh dry. Wrapping the towel around her golden locks, that were finally dirt free and dripping rivulets down her spine, Lucy reached for the bedclothes that were carefully hung from one end of the room divider.
Well, they were right about one thing, I needed a bath desperately. Lucy thought as she slipped her arms into the silk of the nightclothes and the chill from her dream and the cool bath slipped away. Stepping beyond the barrier to the rest of the room, Lucy noted the dango that Mira had left sitting on the low table near her now prepared futon.
Crossing the room slowly, aware of the softness of the floor on her torn feet, Lucy knelt at the small table and picked the wooden stick holding the sweet treat up. The three dumplings would work wonders to alleviate the stress of the dream that she had just experienced. I think I deserve something sweet after that insanity. Who in the Eight Hells was with my mother? And why? Mentally shrugging away the oddity of it all, Lucy popped the light green dumpling in her mouth, savoring it's slight sweetness as she chewed.
Taking in her surroundings, she realized that there were no shoji leading outside. She had always felt more comfortable in a space where she could see the stars at night, especially after dreaming of her mother. Slipping the final piece of her treat passed her lips, Lucy remembered her walk from the stables to Fairy Tail, and the tempting sight of the tenshu.
Eyes rounding as the thought occurred to her, Lucy stood and gathered her courage. No one should be awake this late right? And I'm not a prisoner, so I should be able to go exploring! I'm sure the view of the stars from the tenshu is amazing! With her mind made up, Lucy placed the stick down on the small plate that Mira had brought it in on and rose to her feet. Carefully she made her way to the shoji that led into the hallway and stepped onto the polished wood, glancing each way to make sure she was alone.
The darkened hallways were frightening in their unfamiliarity as Lucy attempted to recall the layout of the gigantic structure from her short tour with Mira. Well, if someone wasn't overcompensating for something, this building wouldn't need to be so damned HUGE. Lucy thought with a shake of her head.
Men….Never can stand it when someone has a larger toy than they do. With a giggle, Lucy made her way to the center of the building and found the spiraling staircase that lead to the top of the castle. With a steadying breath, Lucy began climbing the four flights of stairs leading to the 'Master of Heaven'.
After what seemed like an hour of climbing, Lucy was finally standing outside of a massive set of shoji on the landing of the top floor. The beautiful paper door was painted intricately with a large crimson dragon, it's scales almost shimmering in the light of the lantern that she held in her right hand. Entranced by the flame that seemed to spark along the scales that were painted delicately along the dragon's sides reminded her of the licking flames of a roaring blaze. The creature was coiled protectively around a golden chest emblazoned with the symbols of the zodiac it's massive claws resting on either side of the gleaming treasure while it's head rose above, it's wide jaws opened in a snarl. Teeth were bared protectively and eyes gleamed obsidian at whomever would challenge it for its prize. Lucy was hypnotized at the sight, as the eyes of the beast seemed familiar to her somehow.
Now I KNOW I'm losing it. Lucy shook her golden locks and placed her hand upon the gorgeously painted door and slid it noiselessly across the floor. Her eyes adjusted to the darkened room, and widened immediately at the ornate furnishings of the large space. The entire tenshu was one large area, which seemed to be decorated as its name suggested, for the "Master of Heaven."
Lucy's caramel eyes scanned over each of the foreign objects with innate curiosity. Artifacts from lands she had never seen decorated walls and shelves. Golden statues, large leather bound books that she was dying to get her hands on, scrolls and maps of lands across the sea. She noted a large round object that seemed to spin on its axis, it was within a golden stand that held the orb as you spun it. Running her hand over the smooth surface she found a salmon colored spot that was labeled Fiore and her eyes widened.
Why is Fiore labeled on this thing? What is it? She mused as she noted names along other pieces of colored area that were foreign and strange sounding on her tongue as she attempted to sound them out. Enthralled by the object, but curiosity nipping at her to explore the rest of the spacious area full of astonishing pieces.
Oh Kami, Levy would be in heaven! I'll have to bring her here once I find her! Grief threatened to overcome her as she realized that her small blue-haired best friend would probably faint at the sight of so many spectacular objects in one space.
Just as Lucy felt the tears begin to heat the corners of her eyes, she noticed that a few of the shoji leading outside were open. Taking her lantern and sitting it lightly on one of the many shelves that filled the room's walls, Lucy turned her eyes to the spectacular view ahead of her. The tenshu was the tallest structure around, providing an unobstructed view of Magnolia spread in its grandeur below.
The cloying smell of jasmine reached her nose from somewhere below, as she stepped out onto the balcony that wrapped the tenshu. Placing her hands on the smooth wood of the balcony, the golden haired woman scanned the area below, taking in the sloping hills and the trees that were just beginning to gain the colors of autumn. She could see a river flowing lazily from the mountains and emptying itself into a large lake close to Fairy Tail itself. Sepia eyes caught two nightingales flying on raven wings, singing to the creatures of the night below, as cicadas joined the evening chorus.
Tilting her chin a little higher, Lucy noticed that the side of the tenshu she had exited was pointed north, to gaze upon the constellation that her mother favored above all others. Draco. She was drawn to the flowing band of heavenly bodies as her thoughts drifted again to her mother. At least here, she could afford herself the privacy of lamenting the dream that had brought her mother back within reach. Leaning against the smooth wood, seven stories above the earth and her troubles, Lucy gazed at the constellation lovingly, oblivious to the fact that someone had noticed the open shoji and had stepped in to investigate.
Natsu had found Mira upon stepping into the kitchens, realizing that he must face the music in order to procure necessities for the young blue-haired healer. He didn't want to dwell on the fact that she had quite literally almost killed him the moment he stepped into her domain, and if it hadn't been for the She-Devil noting the presence of the young girl she might have succeeded. Releasing the pink haired man from the death grip she had around his neck, Mira's eyes softened at the sight of the weary Wendy and she immediately shooed Natsu from the kitchens, claiming that she would handle her care from that point.
Thank Draco. He thought with a sigh of relief. If it hadn't been for Wendy, I would have never made it out of the kitchens in one piece. Swallowing thickly, he reminded himself that he would need to remain in Mira's good graces for a while. At least until the fury from this storm passed.
"At least Erza hasn't made it back yet." Natsu mused under his breath as he exited the kitchens to the sounds of Mira cooing softly at the blue haired woman in her care. He tossed a quick look over his shoulder to find the platinum haired woman's eyes scrunched tightly as she embraced the smaller girl tightly.
It's not home yet, but maybe once she realizes the family she's gained, she will be more comfortable. Natsu thought as he hung his head, salmon locks falling into his face as he began his walk to the place he had been dreaming about for days. He was glad to have found Gajeel, and they would settle their differences in regards to their past soon, yet the trip had been taxing on his soul.
Taking lives had never been something that Natsu was fond of, it was required of him in his journey, but that didn't mean that it didn't wear on him whenever he was forced to do so. Emerald eyes released the cold mask that they held in place when he was on the battlefield, and the pain that hid within their depths rose to the surface as he approached the staircase to his piece of heaven.
His bare feet padded across the cooled surface of the stairs as he ascended and reflected upon one of the phrases that Igneel had imparted to him often. Do not raise your sword without reason, but do not hesitate to raise it to protect those you treasure. Closing his eyes as his feet followed the familiar path, Natsu attempted to justify his actions as those of a man protecting those he treasured. Jose had slaughtered his nakama, his people. His true goal would never be accomplished if he could not keep his mask in place long enough to do what needed to be done.
A heavy sigh left his lips as he reached the landing of the tenshu. His spine stiffened as he noted that the shoji was left slightly open, and that there was a faint light pouring through it. They all know to keep out of here, who would possibly intrude on THIS space?! Rage roiled in the pit of his stomach as he drew Karyu no Kagizume from its place at his side, silently sliding through the opening in the shoji.
Emerald eyes coldly scanned the tenshu, noting that nothing seemed out of place, save for the globe of Earthland that was no longer on the correct continent.
I'm positive that it wasn't turned that way when I left. Natsu thought absentmindedly as he continued his assessment of the room that was never disturbed other than by himself. The shelves containing his treasures from his travels and the gifts brought to him from other nations were all in their proper places upon the shelves and lining the walls.
If they aren't thieves, there's only one other reason someone would be here without my permission. Stealthily Natsu crept through the room carefully straining his ears, as his eyes sharpened to analyze the spacious room. His eyes were drawn to a lantern that was placed on one of the shelves closest to the open shoji leading out to the balcony.
Ahhh, so that's where they're hiding. Not a very good assassin if they left clues to their presence all over the place. Natsu sighed wearily as he resigned himself to the impending fight with an obviously lazy ninja or mercenary. Who knows who it could be this time. I'll have to lock them up until Gray or Cobra return to interrogate them.
Stepping closer to the open shoji, Natsu craned his neck around the corner and his pupils blew wide at the sight that lie before him. A woman draped in the snowy silken nightclothes that he knew were provided to female guests by none other than Lisanna, stood framed in the soft ethereal light of the moon above. Soft, seemingly damp, waves hung loosely to her curvaceous hips, the locks seemed to be shining the same color as the moon above, until the flickering of the lantern hit them and caused them to burn a rich gold. Natsu's jaw slackened as his eyes roamed the planes of her profile, which was locked onto the northern sky, he knew immediately where they lie and the breath left his lungs in a rush.
Praying to the constellation watching the pair, Natsu hoped that the mysterious woman hadn't heard his moment of forgetfulness. There's no way she's an assassin if she's been bathing and Lisanna gave her clothes. But who is she? Is she a spy? Where did she come from? Questions fired rapidly through his mind as he fought to gain control of his wandering mind. The woman was undoubtably breathtaking, but the fact remained that she was trespassing in an area that no one dared set foot without invitation by the pink haired lord himself.
Well, there's only one way to find out. Taking a deep breath, Natsu approached the woman silently. He needed to catch her off guard, on the chance that she was indeed an assassin or spy with any talent in taijutsu. Padding closely enough to catch the intoxicating scent of sakura blossoms, vanilla and something slightly spicier, Natsu slid his blade in place at the blonde's neck, earning a quick intake of breath from the woman.
Warm breath rushed across the shell of Lucy's ear as she felt cold steel pressed tightly under her chin, scraping the delicate skin of her neck. How in Kami's name does this keep happening to me?! I have REALLY got to start paying more attention to my surroundings. Lucy thought absently as she noticed the overly warm arm that was wrapped around the silk covered expanse of her abdomen while the other held an obviously sharp katana close to her thrumming pulse. Why does this heat feel so familiar? Lucy's mind reeled at the memory of the warm hands that brought her from her dream.
"Do you happen to have a reason for being in the tenshu after dark? Are you here to slit my throat in my sleep, or perhaps to seduce secrets from me? Or maybe you were sent by one of my men to warm my bed?" A wave of heat brought a shiver down Lucy's spine as she processed the words whispered into her ear in a low rumbling timbre. A gasp escaped her mouth as the insinuation behind the stranger's words registered. All good sense left her as heat rushed to her chest and spread across her delicate features.
Seriously?! Who does this freak think he is?! Forgetting that the man behind her had sharpened steel pressed to her neck, she stomped her heel as hard as possible into the man's bare toes, causing his grip to loosen and she slipped deftly out of his grasp. Squaring off in front of him, her hands on her hips and murder gleaming in her large honeyed eyes.
"How DARE you insinuate that I'm…..that I'm a whore!" Lucy shouted into the peaceful night in a rage at the stranger standing before her, now clutching his abused foot with the hand that had been wrapped around her waist.
Natsu's eyes flew to the woman's face, noticing fire and promised violence blazing in the narrowed sepia gaze. Interesting. She either doesn't know who I am, or she doesn't care. Natsu thought as his abused foot was forgotten in place of straightening and stalking closer to the furious harpy in front of him. Emerald eyes shining with amusement as he watched her pace further away from him, backing herself against the railing of the balcony and cornering herself before him. A wicked smirk spread across his lips, revealing a sharp canine as he closed in.
"Oh, well aren't we the feisty one?" Natsu sneered as he slid his katana into its place at his side and placed an arm on the balcony, effectively caging the woman. He leaned in, intrigued by the golden haired vixen who appeared to be completely unintimidated by him.
"Well what did you expect when you practically called me a prostitute and assumed I would sleep with you!" Lucy shouted at the man, her eyes locking with his and refusing to break the contact. Though the closer the man got, the more difficult it became to focus. The smell of vanilla assaulting his senses.
"I dare you to touch me again, I'll knock you right on your righteous ass!" Lucy tilted her chin up in defiance and met emerald green, noticing the flash of interest and shock in their depths.
"Says the woman I found alone in my bedchambers after dark." Natsu purred as he leaned in to whisper the words against the shell of her ear. As he pulled back, he noticed a flicker of uncertainty flash through her narrowed eyes, disappearing before it had time to take hold.
"Your…..bedchambers? But…..this is the tenshu. Isn't it only used as a symbol?" Lucy stammered as she struggled to wrap her mind around the idea that was solidifying in her mind.
"Well normally, yes." Natsu sighed as he took a step backward, realizing that this woman was indeed not out to murder or seduce him. "However, I prefer to sleep here rather than the inner chambers, though I do have quite the room there as well. I would be willing to show you if you're interested." The wicked smirk reappeared on his handsome features once more and Lucy's breath caught in her chest.
Dear Kami he's gorgeous. Think Lucy! I need words…..why can't I think of words?! Lucy attempted to shake the thoughts from her mind that were venturing towards the planes of muscle that were exposed through the opening of his dark kimono. His hair was tussled by the wind, causing the light colored locks to fall rakishly across his strikingly haunting eyes. The emerald orbs held curiosity and amusement as he kept them locked upon her own.
"I um….I'm not….I mean interested, that is." Lucy stammered as she fought to control the heat that threatened to turn the tips of her ears crimson.
"Well, then since you aren't going to be murdering me, nor warming my bed, would you like to share a drink and maybe tell you exactly why you ARE here?" Natsu watched the color rise to her cheeks and felt heat settling low in his abdomen, knowing he was the cause of the woman's flustered state.
Lucy's eyes widened as the gorgeous man stepped back away from her, turning to walk back into the tenshu. He's definitely confident to turn his back on a complete stranger. Either that or he doesn't see me as a legitimate threat. Lucy thought with an irritated huff, that it was probably the latter, as she warily followed the light haired man.
As she rounded the corner and found the man with his head entirely in a low cabinet, seeming to be in search of something. Soft cursing and other foul language drifted from where he rustled with the contents of the small chamber. She watched, fascinated that this same man had threatened her life mere moments ago.
"Ah! She didn't manage to swipe this one!" Triumphantly the man backed out of the cabinet that his head was hidden in with a wide grin plastered on his face. Another pang of recognition hit Lucy, before her eyes trailed from the megawatt smile to the shock of hair above. The color faded from her face as Lucy noticed the shade of the man's hair.
Oh holy shit…..You've got to be kidding me. Lucy's eyes widened in shock and she felt as if the strength left her legs and threatened to fail her. Her mouth agape, she watched as eyes that had been closed in exuberance opened curiously at the lack of her response.
The warm emeralds immediately turned cooler as they scanned her shocked features, realizing what had happened. He ran the scarred hand, that wasn't occupied with a sake flask, through his very distinctive pink locks and sighed and walked to the low table closest to the open shoji.
"So you've figured me out then." He let a breath hiss his through his clenched jaw as he sat to pour the sweet rice wine into the small dishes he had placed on the table.
With a nod of her head, Lucy turned her head to follow his actions, but instead found herself rooted to the floor as if it were a living thing, threatening to keep her from fleeing. Natsu raised his eyes from the onyx dishes in front of him, glancing out toward the evening sky before flickering back to the stunned blonde before him.
"Well, the hair IS a dead give away. Even if you aren't an assassin." He chuckled lightly and his eyes softened as he noticed amusement flicker through the blonde's caramel eyes.
"It isn't a very common color." Lucy murmured quietly, afraid of saying anything that might leave her on her ass at the front gate. She'd already insulted him, assaulted him and threatened him, she'd be lucky to escape END's bedchambers with her life. Mentally facepalming, Lucy decided it was time to get her temper and her lack of filter under control before it cost her the life she ran away to protect.
"No it isn't." Natsu watched as embarrassment seemed to creep into the eyes of the stunned woman, waiting for her to make a move.
Lucy wasn't sure what to say in order to atone for her previous behavior. He scared the life out of me, damn it! What was I supposed to do? Mentally groaning as she struggled to gain composure, she watched as he lifted a sake dish toward her, indicating she join him.
"Are you going to continue to stand there or are you going to join me for that drink?" Natsu watched with careful assessment in his eyes as the woman gracefully approached the table and sank to her knees cautiously. Natsu placed the small obsidian dish in front of her and lifted his own, indicating that she do the same.
"Now may I request that the fiery harpy whom assaulted me in my own bedchambers introduce herself before we share a drink?" An amused smirk crossed his sharp features as he watched hers soften slightly, the flush that had graced the high ridges of her cheeks earlier, returned hotly.
"Lucy. My name is Lucy….Heartfilia." Lucy tilted her head as she once again locked eyes with the man sitting so closely to her that she could feel the heat emanating from his outstretched leg.
"Well, Lucy Heartfilia. Shall we drink to harpies and salmon colored hair then?" He grinned as he brought the dish to his lips and tilted the alcohol to coat his tongue. A soft chuckle escaped her slightly discolored lips, and Natsu's chest tightened at the sound.
"I think that is a fine idea." She whispered lightly as she brought her own dish to her lips and tilted the liquid past them. It warmed her lips and burned a path down her throat as she opened her eyes and caught the viridian that were following her every movement with fascination.
Slipping her tongue past her lips to catch an errant droplet of the alcohol, she brought it back to her mouth enjoying the flavor. Her eyes locked with his as he seemed to be enraptured by the moment and couldn't seem to draw his eyes from the deceptively innocent gesture. A moment passed as recognition flashed in the depths of his intense green eyes.
"Heartfilia. As in Jude Heartfilia? Of Crocus?" Natsu sat back attempting to collect himself, his eyes slipping once again into a cooler mask, abandoning the intense emotion from moments ago.
"The one and only." Lucy stated through clenched teeth, eyes dropping to her lap as she sat the dish on the table and resumed what she hoped was a more dignified manner in front of the powerful daimyo seated before her.
"Ahhh and would you like to enlighten me as to why an heiress from Crocus is hiding out in my castle in the middle of the night?" Natsu quirked an elegant pink eyebrow, his eyes flashing with curiosity.
"Ummm about that. The abbreviated version is that I left my father and in the process of doing so, one of your men snatched me away from my group." Lucy's eyes dropped to the hands she had folded in her lap as she thought again of Levy, Jet and Droy. Sending yet another silent prayer that the trio was doing well.
"Well, seeing as Laxus was the baka that I sent to Crocus, I'm going to assume that he was the one who separated you from your friends." With a roll of his eyes, Natsu sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. I was wondering why I saw Ivan in the stables. He made a mental note to rake the hulking sparkler over the coals at the next opportunity. Glancing back at Lucy, he watched the apprehension cross her eyes.
"As far as leaving your father, I won't question your motives. We all have a past, and we all have our demons." Natsu finished as he watched the tension visibly melt from her shoulders, as if the weight of the world had lifted from her.
"So you'll allow me to stay then?" Hope laced Lucy's voice as her widened chocolate eyes shone, reflecting the same emotion.
"I would like to speak with the council, as well as my mentor, considering your former station." Natsu placed his thumb under his chin as he considered how Makarov would react to this new predicament.
"However, your temporary stay is acceptable. I will also send Laxus to personally retrieve the rest of your group. Seeing as how he was the baka who separated you to begin with." Irritation rose into his voice as he thought of Laxus kidnapping young women in the forest rather than following the orders of his superior.
Lucy felt her heart still in her chest for a moment, as the emotions of her flight and capture caught up with her. He's going to send someone to find Levy, and he's been considerate. Barring the incident with the katana of course. Lucy thought as she desperately attempted to assess the situation she currently found herself in.
While Lucy was lost in her thoughts, Natsu took the opportunity to assess this woman who appeared so vivaciously into his life. In the moonlight, he had not noticed the obvious discoloration that decorated her face, the finger shaped bruises around her slender neck and along her delicate collarbone that was visible through the silk of her bedclothes. Warm emerald eyes followed the slope of her collarbone to where a generous expanse of ivory flesh was on display. Her silken nightclothes had parted in their scuffle earlier and now the gentle slope of her breasts were on display for his eyes alone.
I wonder if they feel as silky as they look. Natsu's mouth went dry at the thought and he shook his head to clear the errant thought. His eyes journeyed to where she was seated with hands twisting anxiously in her lap, folding the hem of her clothing through them as if it would ground her thoughts. He noticed the shapely slender flesh of her ivory legs where they were tucked closely to her body on the golden cushion she was resting upon. His eyes completed their journey as he noted the state of her torn feet, the wounds merely washed, not treated.
She must have fought to gain her freedom. What has this poor woman been through. Maybe I can convince Wendy to take a look a her tomorrow. He thought as he brought his eyes back to the now dried waves of gold spilling across a slim shoulder.
"I'm not sure how I could ever repay you for your kindness, Natsu-sama." Lucy noted that his gaze had once again met hers and she lowered herself in a deep bow, her nose meeting the tatami floor.
"That's not necessary. Please, sit back and have another drink." Natsu flushed at her display of gratitude and began pouring more rice wine for them. Lucy sat back again, this time when he met her eyes, they were glassy with unshed tears.
Taking the small ebony dish, she was less than delicate this time when she threw the burning liquid down her throat with ease. Natsu's eyes widened as he watched, sipping from his own dish. Well this one never ceases to impress me. With a small chuckle he took another sip from the dish in his scarred fingers.
"You don't have to take it all at once you know." Natsu grinned and watched a flush grace her cheeks once more. Heat spread through him as she lowered her head slightly and glanced at him from under long lashes. His lower half was growing quite uncomfortable as he watched the innocent display that the blonde seemed unaware of.
Well, this is unexpected. If we keep drinking, I believe she will end up in my bed whether she expects to or not. Natsu thought as a confident smirk graced his features.
"Yes well, I don't drink often. But for some reason I have been assaulted and nearly murdered by three different men within the span of as many days. So I'm trying something new." A small hiccup escaped her as she sat up quickly, eyes wide and a delicate hand flew to cover her mouth.
A low rumble sounded from deep in his chest as Natsu fought to keep from laughing at the small blonde's antics. She truly was unlike anyone he had met before, and he was intrigued. His emerald eyes alight with mirth, he once again filled her dish.
"Last for you, my dear lush." Natsu chuckled as he watched the beautiful flush in her cheeks spread across her chest. Gathering the dish in both hands, she tossed the pink haired man a wink as she once again tilted the dish past her lips swallowing the burning liquid in one motion.
As she finished, she sat the dish on the low table and her face split into a wide grin. Natsu was stunned momentarily at the effect that her smile had on him, feeling as if he had been slammed in the stomach with a hot poker.
"Arigato for the company Natsu-sama." Lucy stated as she attempted to stand, almost immediately crashing back to her knees. Well this is embarrassing. Great job, Lucy. Get kidnapped and then end up drunk in the kidnapper's castle. Well done. Mentally chastising herself for her naivety, she attempted once again to place her feet steadily under her.
"Would you like some help with that?" Natsu's green eyes were alight as he watched from his relaxed position on the floor.
"Well that would be helpful Prince Charming, since you're the one offered me alcohol in the first place." Lucy hiccuped as she found her feet, using the wall to orient herself and keep the world from spinning.
"Ahh so I've been promoted from pervert to Prince Charming, I see? Whoever that might be, weirdo." Natsu took his dish and drained the last of the liquid from it before standing easily and approaching the obviously intoxicated woman.
Standing with little space between them, Lucy noticed how much taller he was than herself. Lucy swallowed thickly as his proximity suddenly seemed to increase her level of intoxication. Her eyes slowly travelled from his slightly open onyx kimono, across the broad expanse of his muscular chest, to the length of his strong neck and finally catching upon the full lips that were curved in a slight smile.
I wonder if they're as soft as they look. Lucy dragged her own tongue across her bottom lip to moisten it as she realized the thought that crossed her foggy mind. What am I thinking? I really need to get out of here before I do something else that might get me killed.
As if Natsu could read her mind, he bent closer to inhale the sweetness of sakura that surrounded the woman that fascinated him so. Alcohol had little affect on him, yet somehow his head felt light as he stood with little space between he and Lucy. Watching as her eyes widened at their proximity, Natsu clenched his fists at his side to keep from reaching for her. With a deep breath to steady himself, Natsu lifted his arms to wrap a steadying one behind her shoulder blades, leaving the other to grasp her upper arm.
"Well if he's a prince, I imagine we are somewhat similar. Since I am indeed a prince, it's my duty to make sure that the drunken princess makes it safely to her chambers." With amusement flashing in his eyes, fire still burning deep within them, Natsu removed the hand currently steadying her by the arm and wrapped his arm under her knees to gather her effortlessly into his strong arms.
Gasping as she was lifted into the heated cage of his arms, Lucy's eyes widened as the world threatened to tilt again. Squeezing them shut quickly, she nodded slowly in acknowledgement of his implied intentions. Receiving permission, Natsu started toward the open shoji that lead to the descending staircase leading to the guest rooms.
"Prince Charming is a character from a fairy tale about a princess who hides her identity and sneaks into a ball." Lucy murmured under her breath quietly as the warmth from Natsu's arms began to lull her fuzzy mind into a state of relaxation. "But she was an idiot and left her shoe." The rest of the story was lost to a soft snore as golden eyes fell closed and long lashes lie gently upon flushed cheeks.
Natsu's chest tightened at the sight of the woman resting against his chest. He had no idea where she had come from, what had driven her from home or the life she lived before she made the decision to leave all that she had ever known, but he did know that he respected her courage. She had stood toe to to with him, as few were brave enough to do.
The weirdo even threatened me. Natsu chuckled as the memory of the fire behind the melted chocolate eyes coursed through Lucy at his insinuations. Something about the woman called to him. He couldn't quite put his finger on it, but he knew that somewhere within the darkness that surrounded his heart, she had begun to wrap him within her spell the moment that he saw her gazing longingly toward Draco.
Blonde tresses caressed his arm gently as he guided them down the darkened stairway, the lantern forgotten on the shelf within the tenshu. The darkness emphasized the extent of the bruising on her porcelain skin that seemed to gleam in the low light. Bile rose in his throat at the thought of anyone harming the ethereal being cradled in his arms, yet he was confused that he would feel so strongly for a woman whom he had only just met.
He reached the third floor as he turned and walked carefully toward the only one of his guest rooms with an open shoji. Upon reaching Lucy's door, Natsu carefully nudged the door quietly with his foot to widen the space enough that he could enter with her in his arms. Careful not to wake the woman, he glanced around the room to assess where the futon had been placed before gliding silently across the tatami to kneel slowly beside the bedding.
Gently he placed the woman on the silk, sending a silent prayer skyward that she would remain undisturbed in her rest. He stealthily removed his arms from behind her shoulders and allowed her to adjust before moving from her legs as well. Instantly missing the warmth, Lucy curled toward Natsu, seeking the heat that had been so suddenly removed. A soft moan escaped her lips, as Natsu's eyes widened on her form and then softened as he watched her sigh and her breathing resumed its deep rhythm.
Rising to his feet, Natsu glanced towards the shelving that normally held spare bed linens and found a heavier cotton blanket folded neatly on the second most self. Padding to the wall, he retrieved the soft white cloth and placed it carefully over the sleeping woman. The sudden weight of the blanket, caused Lucy to shift slightly, as Natsu caught his breath and held it. With another soft sigh, the golden haired woman settled once again. Kneeling to resume his place near the pillow that her golden hair was spilling across, Natsu lifted a hand to move a lock that had fallen into her face as she shifted. Tucking the silken lock behind her delicate ear, Natsu leaned in closer.
"Oyasumi Princess." He whispered as he brought the blanket to cover her shoulders, and admired the flush that remained on her cheeks, courtesy of Cana's potent sweet sake. I'll have to thank her later. Natsu thought, as he regained his feet and turned to exit the guest room and return to his tenshu, and a long night of confusing thoughts.
The nights are long, and this distraction was not nearly long enough to cut through the darkness that I know waits for me once I am alone. Natsu sighed as he glanced once more over his shoulder to see the subtle rise and fall of the woman's shoulders and listened for the deep breathing of sleep. A heavy sigh through a clenched jaw, Natsu stepped back into the hallway and cautiously closed the shoji, turning toward the stairwell. His shoulders fell forward as he climbed the stairs slowly, hating to leave the woman who reminded him of light and fire in favor of wrestling with the demons and shadows that he was accustomed to. The thought crossed his mind fleetingly, that he wished he could have curled up next to the fiery woman who had challenged him. Stopping in his tracks as his eyes widened and his heart raced.
I didn't have THAT much to drink, usually even Cana's best doesn't effect me like this. Natsu thought as he shook the impulse from his mind. I must be really exhausted. Not like I'm going to be getting any sleep anyway. Ashis weary feet reached the shoji of his tenshu, he gazed longingly at the depiction of the Fire Dragon King and wished that Igneel were here to confide in. His sorrowful eyes glanced toward the sake dish, glassy as he thought of sitting to have a drink with his father, Natsu gathered himself and closed the shoji to take solace in the alcohol's sweet oblivion.
Stepping through the creaking wooden door, that was held open for her, Erza's eyes took a moment to adjust to the flickering light casting shadows on against the stone walls of the abandoned mill. Sensing Jellal's warm presence close by, Erza relaxed against the palm spanning the base of her spine, slowly guiding her into the drafty improvised prison. Quietly assessing the conditions around her, she noted that the two men who had met the pair outside were two of only three men stationed here.
The redhead hadn't noticed that once stepping into the room, she hadn't moved from the spot she was standing in. Jellal's steady hand was still planted firmly at the small of her back, silently reassuring her and placing a bit of pressure to encourage her to move forward.
There was another man stationed in front of a door, that appeared to have a lock near the handle. The man didn't lift his head in greeting as Jellal approached him. The third of Bora's henchmen was muscular, with features that seemed to be carved from stone. His head was shaven close, save for a small bit that gathered at the nape of his neck in a long tail, the color of freshly fallen snow. Erza's eyes widened as they crossed the man's face, taking in the scar that marred his face from the middle of his forehead in an x-shape across the bridge of his nose and ending under each of his eyes.
As if the hulking man noticed the attention he was drawing from the redhead, he lifted his eyes to meet Erza's. A small gasp escaped her lips as she noted that the man's eyes were a haunting shade of crimson. I've never seen anyone like him. He looks dangerous. I must ask Jellal and inform Natsu of this stranger that Bora has hired. Erza's disposition stiffened as the man's unnerving eyes skimmed her figure, assessing her in the same manner one would choose a bolt of fine fabric.
"This is Bora's 'prize' for the evening. He asked me to keep her with the others until he returns." Jellal's indigo eyes meet the scarred man's with confidence, seemingly unintimidated by his presence.
"Ah." The deeply tanned man stood to his full height, further drawing Erza's attention, her eyes widening as he towered over her.
"I'll take her in then, and make sure she is secure before I check on the two baka that were stabling the horse." The palm that steadied along Erza's back was noticeably trembling as Jellal watched the scarred man take a key from his dark brown hakama and slide it into iron lock of the door. A heavy click was heard as the lock slipped from its home. Returning the key to the folds of his hakama, and resuming his place on the floor, the scarred man continued his vigil of staring despondently at the floor, seemingly unaware of anyone else's presence.
Jellal pressed against Erza's back, encouraging her to enter the darkened room behind the creaking wooden door. Dark eyes took a moment to adjust to the pitch of the room, noticing that there seemed to be darker places against the wall, but unable to determine whether they were objects or something worse.
"It's okay, Aka. I promised you that you would not be here long." Jellal's soothing voice spoke softly into the shell of her ear as she struggled to compose herself.
A nod of her crimson locks was the only acknowledgement she could muster as heat began building in her gut, threatening to cause her temper to be unleashed before the plan could come to fruition. The darkened shadows were beginning to take shape as her eyes adjusted to the damp room that could hardly be labeled as a storage area. Well, at least I've found them. Erza's mind went blank as her eyes scanned the gaunt, tear stained faces. Widened, fear stricken eyes that held a hint of sympathy at the arrival of yet another piece of 'merchandise'. Erza took a hesitant step into the room and her nose wrinkled, the stench of unwashed bodies and mildew assauting her. Bile rose in the back of her throat, burning her nose with acidity as she fought to contain the wave of nausea that hit her in the stagnant air.
"Alright, I'll be back in a while. Bora has plans for you, Aka." Jellal's tone wore a mask of cold indifference that caused Erza's heart to clench tightly. The fact that he had slipped in her childhood nickname gave her little reassurance as the bluenette released his hold on her and turned to close the door.
Watching sepia eyes widen in trepidation and a tinge of fear, Jellal fought the urge to fling the door open again, grab the crimson haired goddess and run to the ends of Earthland with her. However, he knew that by doing so, he would jeopardize the fate of the other women who were huddled against each other in the same room.
Jellal allowed his hand to fall away from the handle of the door, eyeing the scarred man who acknowledged that he expected the door to be locked once again, before he would resume whatever activity he was bound for. With a nod, he stood once again, locked the door and resumed his station. Jellal eyed the door one final time before turning to cross the creaking wooden floor, opening the front door and allowing his lungs to fill with the sweet evening air.
The room in which he had left Erza was destitute and the smell was enough to roil the stomach of the most seasoned of warriors. Inhaling the precious clean air surrounding him, Jellal was able to clear his mind enough to consider his next move. His hand slipped to the pendant hidden within the folds of his kimono, warm against the skin of his chest.
You won't be there for long, my Erza. Jellal thought as his indigo gaze tilted to lock onto the swaying trees in the canopy above him. Closing his eyes, he composed himself and turned in the direction that Erza had indicated that she had noticed her men were following, determined to relieve her of prison as soon as possible.
Erza's senses were thrown into overdrive as she attempted to adjust to the complete darkness surrounding she and the other women, crowded into the minuscule area. She closed her eyes and focused on calming her racing heartbeat. This was all part of the plan. We won't be here long. Jellal will find Elfman and Max and we will get these women to safety. The calming mantra allowing the woman to breath slightly easier, she inhaled through her mouth, knowing that the stench in the room was overpowering and she didn't care to add vomit to the already rancid air.
Her bare feet were beginning to chill against the somewhat damp stone floor, as she realized that this room must have been used as cold storage, rather than the wooden flooring of the wooden and working spaces. Gathering her composure, she attempted to lower herself to a kneeling position, taking the chill from her feet as she folded the costume under her delicately. There's probably no saving this beautiful piece, but as long as the women are safely away from Bora, I'm sure Natsu will find a way to repay Kinana for her assistance.
"You are wearing my kimono." A quiet voice, raspy from lack of use, whispered in the inky blackness of their temporary prison.
"You must be one of Kinana's missing women." Erza hoped that her tone was even and reassuring as she attempted to keep the trembling from escaping through her voice.
"Yes, there are a few of us." Another voice, softer and slightly more melodic echoed from near where the first had sounded.
Erza attempted to focus in the darkness to account for the number of women trapped in this hostile environment with her. She took another steadying breath, clutching the silken garment that was wrapped around her close as a chill crept up her spine.
"My name is Erza Scarlet. I am a retainer of Natsu Dragneel, the Fire Dragon Prince, and I've been sent here to remove the lowlife who has taken you from your homes." Erza's tone was confident as she addressed the women who were still huddled against the wall of the room, cautious of the woman who claimed to be a warrior.
"Why should we believe you? What does the Salamander have vested in the loss of geisha in Hargeon?" The first voice sounded, laced with caution and a hint of venom.
Whomever that voice belongs to must be the woman they trust the most. She seems the most confident. I'll have to earn her trust, in order to bring the others on board. Erza mentally steeled herself and turned toward the place where she had last heard the voice.
"I understand your trepidation." She began cautiously. "However, Natsu does have an interest in Hargeon as a port city. Therefore, he holds concern for all of it's citizens and their wellbeing. A city where women are being abducted, is not one that is deemed safe by most. I'm sure you'll agree." Erza spoke concisely and without embellishing. She was unsure of how much time she had before Bora would return and she would be removed from the room and placed Kami-knows where.
"It may seem ludicrous, but I ask that you place your trust in me, and I will guarantee that you will all be free women by the end of this night." Erza stated confidently as she scanned what she hoped was the entirety of the room before her.
There were a few moments of deafening silence, enough to cause Erza concern. Will they believe me? Trust me? I know what I ask is outrageous, but isn't it better than being sold like livestock? Erza's mind already developing another strategy in case the women wouldn't cooperate.
"…alright. What do we do?" The 'leader's voice echoed softly in the otherwise silent room. A few sharp inhales followed as the other women found themselves in shock at the woman's declaration.
"First, may I have your name? It might be easier to communicate." Erza let out a small sigh of relief that, though she may not have their trust, at least they would follow direction.
"….mine is Juvia." The woman who had been conversing with the redhead spoke up confidently andErza nodded, confirming that this was indeed the woman that Kinana had been searching for.
"Nice to meet you Juvia." Erza allowed a soft smile to appear on her face, knowing that the women would be unable to see it, yet hoping that they could hear it in her tone. The other women slowly introduced themselves as well, totaling eight all together.
"It's nice to make your acquaintance, all of you. Now, I would like for you to give me your attention as I explain what myself and the blue-haired man that placed me in here have planned." Steeling her tone, so as to impart the importance of their attention, Erza began explaining to the frightened young women how they would obtain their freedom.
I thought she said that they should be around here somewhere. I don't particularly enjoy traipsing around the woods, aimlessly in the dark. Jellal rolled his eyes as he continued in the direction that Erza had indicated. She had assured him that her men would be following from the east, as the wind was blowing the opposite direction and they wished to remain undetected. With a mental shrug, the bluenette kept sharp indigo eyes scanning the surrounding area.
I can't stray too far. If Bora returns and I'm not there, who knows what will happen to Erza. His fists clenched immediately and his jaws snapped shut as fury burned in his chest. He could not allow anything to happen to her, not after finally finding her after all of these years. His mind had wandered from his search, and in his inattention, a hand slipped over his mouth, a sharp object pressed against the planes of his abdomen near his ribs.
Kami, I guess I wasn't paying attention. Jellal knew that he could easily escape the grip of the man holding him without too much damage to his person. However, Erza probably wouldn't forgive him if he murdered one of her men when he was supposed to be on the same side.
"Unless you'd like to have your guts decorate the grass, I would advise you start talking pretty boy." A soft, lilting voice hissed into Jellal's ear.
Mentally reminding himself to speak with Erza about the techniques of her men, Jellal shot his head backward in a swift motion. The back of his head connecting with the man's nose with a sickening crack, his right hand reaching for the sharp object digging into his side, finding the handle and deftly relieving the man of the weapon. His adversary had somewhat recovered, but not quickly enough. Jellal used the moment of shock to slip behind and hold the point of the wakizashi under the neck of the heavily bleeding man. With a sigh, cerulean eyes glanced up in time to see a behemoth of a man with a shock of platinum hair materialize from the shadows before them.
"I'll have to inform Erza that her men are cautious enough, yet not nearly up to par with training." The bluenette sent a smirk in the direction of the man who was approaching with murder flashing in his dark eyes.
"I've been wanting to have a chat with you myself, assassin. Would you mind explaining why your hands were roaming all over our commander?" Onyx eyes bored into sapphire as the men held one another's gaze, both distrustful of the other.
"You're welcomed to question Aka yourself, once we free her." Taking a step back from the man he had taken hostage, Jellal's eyes remained locked on the towering captain, who seemed intent on intimidating him. Not going to happen big guy. I've seen far more terrifying men on a good day. Jellal mentally chuckled as he flipped the short sword in his hand, deftly handing it back to the bloody mess that had stumbled away from him, hilt first.
"You didn't have to break my fucking nose, you prick." The man snatched the sword from Jellal's grasp and replaced it into the sheath at his side before returning a hand in an attempt at clearing the crimson staining his face.
"Max, go clean your face. The medic is at the rear of the formation, he should have sufficient bandages until we can get you to Porlyuscia at Magnolia." The captain shouted orders, and the sandy blonde, identified as Max, shot a final icy glare at the intruder and turned to follow his captain's orders.
Frigid onyx eyes returned to lock onto Jellal's as the men continued where they had left off in their masculine battle of wills. Jellal hissed through his teeth as his patience dwindled with the obviously thickheaded captain. Raising his hands in a signal of peace, Jellal began to move his right hand toward the collar of his kimono. The white haired man's boulder sized hand moved more swiftly than the bluenette had anticipated, to land on the hilt of what appeared to be a battle axe at his side. Swallowing thickly, Jellal paused and inhaled sharply, praying that the man would remain still as long as he was motionless.
"I'm going to reach for a pendant that is around my neck to prove that I have Erza's trust." Keeping his voice as even as possible, Jellal's eyes pleaded with the man to trust him.
"Move slowly. If I see you reach for anything other than a necklace, your head will hit the forest floor." The man grunted gruffly, stilling the hand that fingered the hilt of his treasured axe.
"As you wish." Jellal was cautious to make every movement exaggerated, so that the man before him could not mistake his actions. He used one hand to remove the silver chain, revealing the pendant attached, keeping the other held up within the man's gaze. After the pendant was laying warmly against the fabric of his kimono, Jellal made sure that the his right hand returned to match its mate, raised in surrender.
Obsidian eyes widened fractionally in shock as the massive man recognized the oddly shaped jewelry. Removing his hand from the hilt of his weapon, the man lowered his head in a small bow of apology. Jellal's eyes widened as well, watching as the man who had been moments from cleaving his head from his neck, lowered his head in respect.
"Gomennasai. My name is Elfman Strauss, please forgive me for my lack of manners." Raising his wild shock of platinum hair, the giant man continued. "If you have that pendant, you indeed have Titania's trust, as she never allows it to leave her body."
Jellal's jaw went slack at the statement, not realizing that the childish pendant had remained close to her heart since that day. A smirk crossed the wide expanse of Elfman's scarred features as he registered that the tattooed assassin before him had not been informed by the redhead of her affinity for the charm.
"Umm…..well, the name is Jellal Fernandez. I will have to thank her for taking good care of it for so long." Jellal stammered as he attempted to compose himself and focus on the task at hand. A deep rumble escaped from Elfman's chest as he realized that he had effectively caught the assassin off guard.
"Well, why don't we make sure we get her back before we move on to gratitude." Onyx eyes darkened from amusement to determination in a flash, as Jellal shook the shock from his mind and nodded in agreement with the platinum haired captain.
With a wave of his oversized hand, Elfman indicated that the bluenette should follow him to where the rest of the men were stationed. The atmosphere in the area was tense, Jellal sensing the apprehension that the men and women felt while their commander was within enemy hands.
I understand completely. Jellal thought as he noted the concern on the faces of Erza's soldiers. Every moment that she sits in that makeshift prison is one that I feel as if my heart is in a vice. Taking a deep breath to relieve the ache that seemed to have settled around his heart, Jellal followed Elfman to a spot within the makeshift camp, taking a seat on an overturned log that had fallen haphazardly on the forest floor.
Elfman paced, unable to rest while his leader was behind 'enemy' lines. He knew that Bora was little more than a scumbag daimyo, but the fact that he was a womanizer and one who devalued women to such a degree as to sell them as product fueled the fire that was his temper. Jellal watched as the behemoth wore the ground beneath his feet to a pulp, the grass didn't stand a chance against his constant tracking.
"Bora will return soon. Once he does, he has instructed me to bring Erza to him in the single bedchamber of the mill." The giant halted in his circuit and glared viciously at the man seated before him. Jellal immediately raised his hands to ward off the easily angered man. "I am OBVIOUSLY not going to allow anything to happen." Elfman's intense obsidian eyes burned in the moonlight, as he returned to his track.
"So when would you have us move in? I assume you'll use a signal to inform us quickly after you leave my commander with that piece of shit?" Elfman snapped, fists clenching at his sides to keep from destroying something.
"I'll exit the rear door, closest to the room that they will be in. Once I exit, move in and I will enter with you. Send me with a small team that will head to the room with Erza, while you and the rest of your men will contain Bora's three lackey's and secure the women." Jellal placed hands on his knees as his sapphire eyes tracked the man's progress across the area in front of him.
"The only one that will give you any trouble will be the scarred man. He kind of reminds me of you, actually, though his eyes are the color of blood and he doesn't speak much." Jellal murmured as he thought of how the scarred man would react to his doppelgänger appearing to rescue the captive women.
"Why are you going for Erza and not myself? She is our leader, you've only just returned to her. That isn't very manly" Elfman's eyes were reflecting the tension obviously stringing his body beyond its normal limits.
"Because I promised to never again abandon her." Jellal muttered quietly and once again locked eyes with the towering man before him, challenging him to question his strategy. "Besides, I think you would be better matched with the scarred man than myself."
With a glance at the determination blazing in the cerulean eyes of the man before him, Elfman nodded and accepted his role in the retrieval of his commander and the kidnapped women.
"Alright, Jellal." Elfman extended a platter sized hand to the smaller man, who stood and grasped it confidently. "We will do it your way, but I promise that if a single crimson hair is harmed, I will destroy you."
A wicked smirk spread across the confident features of the immense captain. Jellal knew that the man would enjoy tearing him limb from limb if anything where to happen to Erza, and the indigo eyed man would welcome the punishment if he allowed it.
"I'll see you soon then." Jellal stated and turned to make his way back to the mill, praying that Bora hadn't returned before he did.
Erza's eyes had adjusted, somewhat, to the darkness of the storeroom as she locked onto the shadowy figures before her. She had explained to them the plan, and that they must remain calm when Jellal returned to drag her to Bora. The redhead was normally level headed, but this situation had her rattled for some reason. She inhaled deeply, noticing that the stench that had overwhelmed her when she had initially entered the room no longer affected her the way it had at first. She realized that this could only indicate that she had been in the room for an extended period of time. Erza's palms began to become moist as she fought the panic that sought to grip her chest.
No, he wouldn't abandon me. He didn't before and he won't now. The thought calmed the nervous wringing of her hands in the fabric of her kimono, as her ears caught the muffled sound of a door creaking open. Heavy footfalls entered the mill and she could hear padding across the creaking wood of the open space outside of their room.
It sounds like there might be more than one set. Erza thought briefly as she strained her ears to pick up any hints of what could be going on outside of their darkened prison. A muffled exchange occurred away from the door to the storeroom and then footfalls passed them to move across the mill. Erza let out the air that she hadn't realized she had been holding in her lungs. Shoulders slumping forward in the darkness, the crimson haired samurai murmured a quiet prayer, that she and the women would soon be released from the hell they were trapped in.
The moment her request was sent to the heavens, the door opened again. This time the footfalls were not the heavy sounds she heard previously. These steps were light and efficient, heading directly for the door that she sat patiently behind.
Please let that be him. Erza thought again, as another muffled conversation was held, this time closer than before. A grunt was given in response. Probably that scarred meathead. She thought dismissively as she strained to pick up any further clues that this could be her childhood friend.
Metal slid against metal and a slight click sounded as the lock was freed from its iron prison. Light flooded the jet black space, momentarily blinding the crimson haired woman. A silhouette was standing before her, yet she was unable to make out who exactly it was that had opened the door.
A warm hand rested on her upper arm, pulling Erza to her feet and removing her quietly from the room. Dragging a hand across her chocolate eyes, she fought against the light to determine who owned the hand that was gripping her arm so tightly.
The man in question did not speak, and moved swiftly toward the single bedchamber of the mill. Blinking a few times as she was dragged into the room without ceremony, Erza could finally see, as the light from the living space was cancelled out by the closed and locked door behind the man before her.
As Erza tilted her head upwards to determine who it was that she was dealing with, her honey eyes widened as they locked on narrowed ones before her. What in the world is going on?! She thought as her brain scrambled to understand.
The sinking feeling that would not release its grip on Jellal's stomach was unnerving. Usually his gut feelings were ones that should not be ignored, which meant that he needed to move more swiftly. The mill was within sight when Jellal slowed to a halt before the building. Icy fingers seemed to crawl up his spine and the color drained from his face as he took in the sight of the additional horses tied up outside of the aging stone building.
SHIT.
Jellal couldn't break out into a run without risking detection. If he returned covered in sweat and in a panic, it would be far more difficult to explain. He would have to trust Erza and keep calm until he could reach the building and assess the situation.
I'm trained for this. I just need to remain calm. However that seemed the be the opposite of what his body was screaming at him to do currently. He wanted nothing more than to ambush the building on his own and slaughter them all. He was capable of it, he knew. Yet he also knew that Erza would never forgive him for his senseless vigilante justice. Shaking his head at the thought of the irritated crimson haired goddess, Jellal's pace increased as much as he felt was safe.
He reached the door only a few moments later, though to the cerulean haired man, it had taken weeks. He inhaled through his nose, allowing the fresh evening air to soothe his nerves before pressing the door inward and walking through.
Once he opened the door, he noticed that all three men were within the living space. The scarred man had not moved since his earlier departure, while the other two were playing with gambling dice at the low table they had set up in the corner. A brief scan of the room told him all that he needed to know. Bora was indeed back, and the door to the bedchamber was closed.
Without hesitation, Jellal cleared the room in minimal strides and yanked the rear door open with a flourish. The wood crashed explosively into the stone behind it. Jellal uncaring that door had practically splintered in its mistreatment, he took large strides to exit the building, praying to every god in existence that Elfman and his regiment had followed quickly and were in place awaiting his signal.
Not bothering to wait for confirmation of reinforcements, Jellal quickly turned on his heel in the soft grass and strode back in through the door that now sat lopsidedly off of its frame. I made a promise. Crimson was beginning to cloud his vision as rage pulsed through his body, fueling his desperation to ensure the scarlet haired woman's safety over anyone else's. Without another thought, Jellal lifted his booted foot and slammed it into the wooden door separating him from the bedchambers.
"Bishoujo, I hope your wait wasn't too uncomfortable." Onyx eyes were not the color that she had anticipating as her own chocolate finally adjusted to the low light, after the blinding rush from the storeroom to the bedchamber.
Without waiting a moment for her response, Bora began stalking her closer to the futon in the corner of the room, ominously waiting for the pair. Erza's mind raced desperately, fumbling to slip back into the character that she had elected to play until the women who were taken were safe once more. Gathering what little courage she had left, Erza stepped forward, fighting every instinct that was screaming for her to move away. Bora seemed pleased by her reassuring gesture and slipped a warm hand over the silk at the curve of her hip, the other sliding up her neck to bury itself in Erza's crimson locks.
"Goshuujinsama, that room was terribly dark and smelled horrid." Erza did her best to sound simpering and added a puff of her cheeks for good measure as she glanced into obsidian eyes through her lashes.
"Koibito, I will be having a word with my men about their mistreatment of you." The hand that was buried within her hair began to card through it, in what he thought was a soothing motion, as he lowered his head to the ivory column of her neck. As his lips traced the space behind her ear, the redhead began resigning herself to her fate. She attempted to numb herself to anything but the thought that Jellal and Elfman would be there soon to rescue the captured women.
As long as they're safe. I promised them freedom. As long as they are safe. Erza repeated the words internally as she fought to remain pliant in the hands of Bora.
"I've been thinking about this from the moment I left you." Bora whispered against her throat, as his lips caressed the flesh between her neck and shoulder.
Erza managed to conjure up a throaty moan in response, praying that the noise didn't sound like a dying animal as she closed her eyes. I've always considered theatre, maybe this is my chance to practice. She thought as she mentally steeled herself against the assault on her body.
A warm hand began trailing from her hip up her side, and back down again, lips pressing hotly against her neck as they inched upward toward the shell of her ear. The hand that had been roaming her side began tracing the lines of her ribs, inching toward the underside of her breast. A sharp inhale escaped her careful mask, as she fought the urge to bring her knee between his legs as harshly as she could. She didn't have to fight for long. A loud crash startled the pair, as the wooden door practically exploded into splinters, revealing a livid blue-haired assassin with desperation and murder gleaming in the icy depths of his sapphire eyes.
"Get. Your disgusting hands. Off of that woman." Jellal panted, out of breath with the effort of containing his barely restrained rage.
Bora's obsidian eyes flashed with shock as he released Erza and turned to face the man who was supposed to be under his hire. Jellal stepped through the now splintered remnants of the door, vibrating with fury and eyes icy and unforgiving. A chill ran through Erza as she stared at the change in the warm, considerate man she rode with earlier that evening, the one who had calmed her fears, caused her heart to race and heat to rush through her body. That was not the same man now stalking toward Bora, fists clenched at his side and practically vibrating with anger.
Crimson had bled into Jellal's vision upon seeing Bora embracing Erza as a lover would. Cerulean eyes narrowed as he stalked the taller man before him, not stopping until Bora's back was braced against the stone wall of the room. Blind rage and jealousy fueling every movement, Jellal wrapped long fingers around the neck of his 'owner' and squeezed, lifting the larger man off of his feet.
Bora began clawing desperately at his arms, flailing in his attempt to relieve the pressure on his neck. Feeling the man struggling Jellal's fingers tightened, digging into flesh and creating rivulets of blood, as his nails dug deeper. A cold mask slipped over Jellal's face, effectively hiding the emotions that were seething under the surface. He needn't even think of slipping into this personality of his, it was a second skin, as accustomed to it as the less manic side he showed to the world. Sucking noises and frantic jerking motions of Bora's legs signaled that the man's lungs were now burning with the need for precious air.
Just a little longer, and the life will fade from his filthy eyes. Jellal thought with a sick sense of pleasure as the bruising strength that he was using to crush Bora's windpipe increased slightly.
"JELLAL NO!"
Erza's heart-wrenching cry was akin to being thrown into an ice bath on Mt. Hakobe. Jellal's fist opened immediately, the suffocating man writhing on the floor, covered in his own urine and sucking air with gaping movements of his mouth as red-tinged foam appeared at the corners of his violet colored lips.
Coming to her senses, Erza ran to the stunned man staring at his hands in shock, as if he weren't sure what had happened. Pupils blown wide, and the mask lifting from his emotionless face, Jellal's eyes flicked to the pathetic man at his feet. The spell broken, Erza ran over and threw her arms around Jellal's waist. Her front pressed against his back as she sobbed into the soft silk of his dark kimono, as his left hand reached up to clasp her hand against his chest.
"I'm so sorry Aka. I was too late." His voice empty as he fought the tears that threatened to spill from closed eyes. As he attempted to hide the confusion and sorrow that fought within their depths, Erza slipped around to stand in front of him, her eyes glassy with unshed tears.
"You were just in time." Placing her hands on his cheeks and trying to meet his eyes with her own, Erza gave him a gentle smile. "See? I'm just fine." Indigo eyes hesitantly lifted to her own caramel, the redhead watching fear and disappointment vying for a place within their depths.
Heart racing frantically, Jellal fought the tears that burned at the back of his eyes, not wanting to break down in front of her. Fighting to slow his breathing and bring his emotions back under his control, Jellal squeezed his eyes shut, praying for his normal equilibrium.
"It's okay Jellal." Erza whispered, her voice shaky. Jellal eyes opened slightly, his brow still furrowed with the effort of holding tears at bay and keeping himself from continuing to strangle the man currently wheezing on the floor nearby. Noticing the tear stains tracking from her widened honey eyes to drip from the edge of her jawline, the vice around his heart drew even tighter.
"I almost lost you." Jellal whispered quietly, and before he knew what was doing he had gripped her shoulders, lowering his head to lean his forehead against hers gently. "I cannot lose you again."
He watched as her eyes closed and taking comfort in the warmth of her body so close to his own. The warmth that he had felt on their journey from the geisha house returned in full force, to burn him slowly from the inside and settling low in his abdomen. His breath was coming in short puffs of heated breath glancing across the bridge of her nose, causing her to openher eyes slightly to question what was causing his rapid breathing.
A small gasp left her parted lips upon meeting Jellal's eyes. The intensity burning deep within their cerulean depths was locked entirely on her, and the desire shining in them had her heart fighting desperately to escape her chest. Erza slipped her tongue from her lips to moisten them and indigo followed the movement, his heartbeat skyrocketing at the innocent motion. A calloused hand moved from Erza's muscular shoulder to cup the silky flesh of her cheek, the rough pad of his thumb running along the ridge of her elegant cheekbones.
As indecision flashed through caramel eyes, Jellal's own mind had been made up. He steeled himself and prayed that she wouldn't murder him for what he was about to do. Throwing caution to the wind, Jellal leaned in quickly and slanted his lips across the satin of Erza's. Chocolate eyes flew open at the sensation, shock freezing her immediately. Jellal was beginning to fear that he would lose his head as he felt her finally relax against his touch, her soft lips pliant under his own as he poured the emotions he felt at nearly losing her into the contact. Heat rushed through his chest as he heard her hum lowly as his lips moved gently over hers. Tenatively he ran his tongue along her bottom lip, feeling her shudder beneath the soft touch, his hand had journeyed from her silky cheek to thread through the crimson of her loosened locks. His head began to spin as he felt her lips begin to move more confidently across his own, his hand grasping her hip and pulling her tightly against the hard planes of his body. Their breathing becoming rapid as anticipation built between them, and neither seemed to be able to get close enough to the other to satisify their longing.
"Ahem." A rough clearing of a masculine throat had the pair jumping away from one another as if a bolt of lightning had struck them. Jellal turned to see Elfman's broad shoulders blocking the door to the bedchambers, onyx eyes wide and glancing between the assassin and his now crimson commander. Jellal glanced warily to where Erza stood with her face flushed the same color as her hair, attempting to look anywhere but at him.
Well, that could have gone more smoothly. I completely lost my head in the middle of a mission. Jellal thought as he pinched the bridge of his nose and let out a heavy sigh. His eyes flicking to the man curled in a ball merely four feet from him, openly weeping and wheezing, Jellal decided the talk with Erza would need to be placed on hold until he could handle the business at hand.
Way to go Jellal. I just had to go and make things complicated. Shaking his head and raking a hand through unruly locks, Jellal turned toward Bora to grab him by the collar and yank him to his feet.
"Mind tying that up before I finish what I started?" The bluenette shoved the unsteady, sobbing man toward Elfman, meeting onyx eyes and nodding his head, hoping that the captain would understand that he and Erza needed a moment before they joined the rest. With a slight nod of his platinum head, he indicated he received the message as he grabbed the pitiful daimyo by the kimono and shoved him through the splintered door to where the rest of the Dragneel forces waited.
Jellal watched until the broad shoulders of Elfman passed out of view before turning to the crimson haired woman behind him. She was shifting from one foot to another, obviously unsure of how to react under the circumstances. Jellal was increasingly aware that they were once again alone, yet he was determined that nothing more would happen between them until a discussion was had about the moment that they shared.
"Erza…." Jellal began hesitantly, crossing the room once again to come close to her, raising a hand to wrap around her shoulder tentatively, bringing her head against his broad chest.
"Its okay if you didn't mean it." Erza interrupted quietly, her eyes closing as she heard Jellal's strong and steady heartbeat below her ear.
"Oh Aka, I definitely meant it." Jellal chuckled lightly as he moved her away slightly so that he could lock his eyes on her own, a gentle smile gracing his handsome features.
Erza's eyes widened in shock as they met Jellal's, searching their depths to read what he was feeling. She placed her hand on his chest gently and sighing and drawing comfort from the steadily quickening rhythm.
"However, right this moment is not the most convenient time to discuss it further, though I do plan on having a very….in-depth conversation about this later." Jellal practically purred the statement at the crimson haired woman, causing the rosy tint to once again flush her chest and the ridges of her cheekbones.
A nod of her scarlet head indicated that she was in agreement, as she lowered her lashes and fought to draw in enough air to fill her lungs in the slight space between the two of them.
"Shall we join the others?" A confident smirk graced Jellal's lips as he lifted an eyebrow in question.
"That would probably be for the best." A heavy sigh left her lips as she stepped away from the warmth of Jellal's arms.
Running his hand once more over her shoulder reassuringly, Jellal smiled softly and gestured for her to lead the way out of the bedchamber and out to meet with the rest of her regiment.
AN: Yay! They met! And yes I have more delicious moments ahead, however, I will remind you that NaLu is going to be a slow burn. They just met and though Natsu is thinking of her in that way, I don't think that Lucy is quite prepared for that just yet. Especially after what she'd been through recently!
So I have 78 followers for this story and that makes me incredibly happy! So I think I'm going to play a little game and see if y'all can come up with 30 reviews. If y'all get 30 on this chapter, I'll take a Q&A and answer anything that won't spoil the rest of the story completely. So read and review y'all! 3
I would also like to let my lovely followers/readers/reviewers that I will be a witness in a trial next week, therefore the next update may be a bit late, but I promise that I'm not giving up on Ambition! I will make sure an update is posted, but it may not be exactly on Sunday/Wednesday. I ask for your patience and understanding as real life is kinda kickin my ass lately.
That being said, I love all of y'all to pieces and I am so happy that you are enjoying the story and are hanging around for the ride! I have big plans for this story and I am hoping to pick up many more avid readers along the way!
Thank you so much again to my lovely Beta, Rein Serenity! 3
Much love to you all!
Translations:
Okaasan: Mother
Tenshu: 'Master of Heaven' The tallest tower in a castle – Usually just a symbol while the lord sleeps in the inner chambers
Nakama: Friend/Comrade (more like family)
Karyu no Kagizume: Fire Dragon's Claw (Natsu's katana)
Sake: Rice wine
Baka: Idiot/Moron
Oyasumi: Goodnight
Hime: Princess
Aka: Red
Wakizashi: Short sword usually paired with a katana
Gomennasai: I'm sorry
Bishoujo: Beautiful girl
Goshuujinsama: A way of saying 'Master' in a subservient way
Koibito: Sweetheart/darling/lover
