To my faithful followers, I would like to thank you for continuing to give me AMAZING feedback!
Footster26: I promise your gonna flip when you see what happens. The key activation is very important! hehehe and I've been working hard on making it worth the setup chapters that we have been through.
ShiningStellar: If I tell you now, that wouldn't be any fun right? ^_~ And the ball is in this chapter so you need to read it to find out who Lucy 'gets' to dance with. As for the Barbie stories, I don't really know. But those are usually based on other fairy tales that have princesses, and there is a ball in almost every one, right? But Lucy already has her Prince so it's a little different.
EvelinChan: I hope you're still reading, I haven't seen a review from you in a while... *Pout*
To the rest of you who read but don't review, or who comment with names that I can't respond to, THANK YOU! We are already starting chapter 9 and we are quickly coming to the story's climax, you guys are awesome, and I will do my best to keep the content at the level you all have come to expect!
So, on another note I have added lyrics to this chapter during the Ball, I have given you a list with the names of the songs and the artist who preforms them. For some they don't really have a musician attached, you can just search them on youtube. Just be careful not to use the 'rock' versions. I intended it to be traditional. I will recommend playing any two of these songs, as they are the music in my head as I'm writing the characters dance, or should I say this is the play list running on Loop while I am writing this chapter? Any who it is just a suggestion, hence why I decided to include the Lyrics to some of the songs. THEY ARE NOT MY SONGS! I don't own any lyrics that I will be using.
'The River flows in you' it is a cover on the violin and harp by Lindsey Stirling of Yiruma's original. Imagine the violing harp and Piano playing together in harmony. And before anyone says anything I KNOW this song was in Twilight, but it is an absolutely beautiful piece in it's original form.
'If I could see you again' -Yiruma
'Greensleeves' Vaughan Williams
The next set are by Celtic Woman. With the anime using the type of music they do, I find Celtic music to be fitting for my fic.
'may it be'
'the voice'
'The Sky and The Dawn and the Sun"
'When you Believe'
'King of the Fairies' by Arany Zoltan
'Celtic jig'
'Irish Drinking Song'
'To the fairies They draw Near' by Loreena McKennitt
Like I was saying, go ahead and pick 2 or three that should get you through the ball, I will do my best to clarify anything you didn't understand in this chapter, so don't be afraid to ask!
~Chrys Stone
Chapter 9: Celestial beings
"Wendy, this is important! Focus your mind on the target." Gajeel barked forcefully as he observed the smaller dragon slayer struggle to hit her intended wooden target. Wendy rolled and aimed for the moving target once again, still missing by an arms length. Wendy had insisted on being put through the same training as Lucy, and Gajeel was at present humoring her request. Though we all knew that she was not suited for battle, Wendy was more of a support mage than an offensive front line magic user, Gajeel told himself that this was more for her to learn to protect herself better than to put her out into a real dangerous situation. After all with Lucy, Laxus, Natsu and himself there should be no need for Wendy or Levy to get their hands dirty. Secretly he wished he could lock the two inside the guild when the time came, but he resigned himself to the fact that Lucy would kick his sorry ass if he even tried.
"Gajeel, I want to do this the way Lucy-nee did, don't go so easy on me!" The little girl demanded forcefully. She stomped her foot on the ground, staring past the wooden mannequins, at the menacing figure who had his back against a tree. Gajeel heaved a silent sigh, why was he always stuck with such stubborn brats?
"The brat did this too, you know." Gajeel replied snidely before popping a piece of metal into his mouth. "It's part of the basic training, you need to learn this before you are allowed to move on! Now stop your damn complaining!" Gajeel motioned for Wendy to continue. The small girl huffed indignantly before returning to attacking the mannequins with her bare fists and legs.
Erza smiled from the spot deemed 'Lucy's boulder' where she was perched herself, to observe Wendy's training. The small girl continued to struggle giving it all her most ernest efforts. Erza was amazed, at the sight, little Wendy was acting semi fierce, and rather impatient lately, but she did not hesitate to beg for help from her senior dragon slayer 'brothers'. Oh how Erza marveled at the things Lucy had already done to change the hearts of all these people, it purely and truly astounded her. Wendy was sweating with effort, working her hardest to fight without using any magic, she was pushing her small frame to its limits. As Erza had heard from her guild mates that Lucy had directly told the young dragon slayer that this was what she wished. Thus the girl had immediately sought out to train herself, begging Gajeel for his help. She stood tall and proud when his answer came, Gajeel to everyone's surprise had ruffled her hair and told her to meet him in the clearing. This was steadily proving recently that his facade had been shattered leaving a well tempered and even helpful Gajeel in place of the formerly feared man. Lucy would be proud of this sight, yes very proud. Erza's smile widened as Wendy's first round house kick connected with the wooden dolls.
"I connected a hit! Can we move on now?" Wendy said breathlessly, yet still chipper from her accomplishment.
"If that is really what you want than you can run laps now!" Gajeel pointed to the worn path where Lucy had spent two month wearing down the vegetation with her intense training. "If you can, accomplish two laps by sun down than I might start to take you seriously." Wendy set a serious expression on her face and jogged off. Gajeel smirked at the back of the little girl as she forced herself to her max speed.
"Are you going to work her half to death as well?" Erza raised an eyebrow coolly as Gajeel came to sit beside her rock, an arm full of scraps to snack on, joining the party. He heaved a throaty laugh that was very unusual coming from from his dark and brooding persona.
"That pip squeak wants to get stronger, she is the one who asked for my help. I'm only doing this to please her." Gajeel shrugged his shoulder in a lazy manner as he folded his arms across his chest, allowing his scraps to sit next to him, gleaming in the mid day sun.
"Is this really how you trained Lucy?" Erza kept her tone calm and even. She couldn't imagine delicate Lucy doing this for two months straight.
"That brat didn't need me to train her." Gajeel shifted slightly, closing his eyes, a smirk playing across his face. Erza raised an eyebrow in response, wanting more of an explanation, after a few minutes he continued on. "She just needed someone around to tell her what to do next, to set a goal for her. She pushed herself harder than I ever asked her to. Damn brat would barely sleep, and often ate while running her laps so she didn't need to stop." Gajeel sighed. "Like I said to flame head, she took my four years of training and completed it in two months. That brat is a real monster." Erza detected a shutter that Gajeel tried desperately to hide. Deep down Erza felt that itching to test out Lucy's new talents for herself. "She is an impressive little brat though. I'm glad I was able to couch her through her unease" He smirked slightly, rather proud that she had long surpassed her tutor.
"True, she never ceases to surprise me. I can't wait to see how she has improved. Just imagine how much stronger she will become from this new set of training. Natsu tells me it is more intense than what she endured with you here." Erza's face lit up with a bright smile. "She should be home any day now, I can't wait to challenge her." Gajeel coughed, masking the fact that he wanted to fall over laugh at the notion. He seriously doubted even Erza the Titaina held a chance against 'little' Lucy any more.
The soft crunch of twigs alerted the duo to another presence entering the clearing, Erza put her hand slowly to hover over the hilt of her sword while remaining completely still. Gajeel's shoulder's tensed as he felt the presence of strong magic approaching quickly, yet evenly. He prepared himself mental just in case a fight broke out.
"Lucy is really quite amazing." Came the soft masculine voice. The man proceeded to make his way to Erza's side as he came into full view out of the tree line. "You can literally feel the power radiate off of her." Jellal came to stand on the opposite side of the boulder, a small smile gracing his features. "And I am sure that she has just about mastered how to wield it properly now." Jellal place a hand on Erza's shoulder, and gave her a genuine smile that warmed her heart. "I myself would be more than happy to test her when she gets back."
"She has become our fearless leader." Erza relaxed under the pressure of his gentle hold, allowing a smile of her own to spread across her tired features. "I have no doubt that she will not return until she has it completely under control." Erza stated softly. Gajeel coughed loudly, excusing himself from the 'tense' atmosphere. He scurried quickly out of ear shot, somethings he just didn't need to be a part of, even if he was getting used to these crazy fairies, and this was one of them.
"She is as kind as you are, my dear." Jellal bent and place a soft kiss on Erza's cheek. "I hope that what was discussed at the guild doesn't come to pass. It would be to sad if such a person were to die." Erza took a deep breath, her cheeks flushing a bright shade of rose.
"She will do this task without fail. Lucy has been able to accomplish so much thus far. I can't imagine something like breaking a seal taking her and Natsu down." Erza smiled shyly as she wrapped her arms around his neck. "And I will protect her, she has brought joy to everyone I love, and I will repay her kindness with my life I need be."
**Natsu's POV**
"So Team Trimen is out on duty now?" Mira asked leaning over the bar with a mug of Fire Whiskey. I nodded, accepting the drink from her hands. "That's good, have you heard anything from Lucy today?" Mira looked at me tilting her head on her hands, excitement filling her bright blue eyes. I took a long sip, trying to stifle a yawn.
"Nope not since I cut the link. I wanted her to focus so I blocked my end as a way to keep from distracting her. I'll drop my guard soon though, but things are getting crazy around here and I really can't stand it when she is angry. SO, I've been putting it off." Mira flashed me a slightly worried smile. "She was so close to perfecting the fusion when we talked though, so I have no doubt that she will be home soon. At least I hope so, it's bugging me that she's been gone this long. I can't stand seeing her as a Popsicle any more." I muttered the last bit to myself. I knew it was wrong, but I could barely bring myself to enter the infirmary, the sight of her lifeless body in cased in ice was just to painful. The first time, I was so upset I heated the room by accident, from that point on I decided it was best to only peek in to make sure she was stable. After all I got to speak with her and that was plenty to keep my fears at bay.
"Do you think she is at least enjoying her training?" Levy asked with a sigh as she slide into the seat beside me.
"She misses home a lot, but she is surrounded by good people, they make her laugh and smile. So yeah she seems happy enough." I put my hand on Levy's head with a small smile. "The training is tough though, way more intense than anything we could have cooked up for her." I spun the mug idly in my hand, trying to decide when I should drop the mental block, I really missed her voice, but had it been long enough yet?
"Natsu, will you tell me the truth about something?" I didn't like the implications of her question, slowly I turned to her. The determined look on her face shocked me a little, I knew it was going to be difficult to answer now, yet I nodded just the same. "If we fail, and we can't beat them, what will happen?" 'Oh Levy the one question I hoped you wouldn't ask me.' I hung my head, staring into my mug as I took a deep breath, collecting my thoughts before trying to answer. I must have stayed quiet for longer than Mira's liking because she reached out and patted my hand encouragingly. I sighed, this was hard to say out loud, even in my head it was hard.
"If we fail, the world will be over run by a never ending war. The first targets will be the mages guilds and the council not even dark guilds will be safe in the end." I paused taking a slow breath. "If we can't stop the Black Dragon this time, there won't be another chance, ever, there will be nothing left. Everyone we know and love will die." I answered slowly, my voice shaking as I refused to look up from my cup. "Lucy and I need to united the two kingdoms so we can both make full use of our powers. I'm not sure what that means, really. But that is how Lucy keeps putting it." I could feel my eyes glaze over, my throat tightening as I finished. "Lucy and I may have to sacrifice ourselves to save everyone." I could feel the salty liquid escape my eyes once more, but paid it no mind. I just wanted to have my Lucy back close to me now, nothing else mattered. Levy put her hand on my shoulder, as Mira put her's on my hands. I looked up to see their kind and understanding faces, each offering a smile that gave me hope.
"We would never let it get to that." Mira said softly.
"Lu-chan wouldn't leave us now, she still has so much she wants to do right? And you too, now that you'll get to see Igneel, you will have to set a new goal." Levy smiled brightly, squeezing my shoulder comfortingly.
"Plus, I'll be going with you." I turned to see Laxus who placed his hand on my other shoulder. "You didn't think I would let Lucy out of my sight now that she is finally back to normal, did you?" He raised an eye brow in my direction, and I had to smile back.
"Honestly I don't think she would have it any other way. We are going as a family anyway, right?" Levy beamed brightly as she offered a smile to Laxus. "Don't worry, Lucy won't give up with out a fight." She offered proudly.
"Levy is right! Also you'll have the others with you too! When we are fighting along side each other, we can beat anything! That's what it means to be a Fairytail Mage!" Mira chimed happily offering her own bright smile.
"Wendy is off training with Gajeel now. I bet he'll whip her into shape in no time! And with her added power I can't see any way you would lose." Levy made a goofy expression and giggled at the image she was obviously cooking up in that odd head of hers.
"So are you guys leaving as soon as Lucy gets back?" Cana, who had picked her drinking habit back up, asked over a barrel of spirits. I should have known her dry spell wouldn't last long, Cana loved the drink more than anything in the world.
"It depends on how long it takes Lucy to readjust to her body. She has been in spirit form for over a month on the other side. I'm not sure how well her body is doing since the explosion did so much damage, and the erosion from being separated from her spirit will take time to heal." I took a deep sip of my drink and decided to turn the conversation in a different direction. "SOOOOO" I said with a wolfish smile, turning my attention to a wide eyed Levy.
"Um, what?" she asked nervously playing idly with her fingers on her lap.
"When did that get there?" I pointed to the little ring on her finger. Levy's cheeks lit up brighter than a Christmas tree. She stuttered embarrassed for a few moments.
"OH Levy!" Mira cheered. This effectively got the attention of the other females who were within earshot. I laughed as the women cooed over the small rock, and bombarded the small mage with dozens of questions. Levy glance in my direction with a pleading expression, she apparently wasn't ready to talk to everyone about this.
"So when is it?" I interrupted, trying to rescue her since the attention was my fault anyway. The women turned venomous glares at me, but Levy just laughed, hopefully relieved.
"As soon as Lu-chan gets back. I was planning on waiting to tell everyone till then, I never imagined you would be so observant." Levy giggled.
"It's one of the side effects from the Dragon link. Parts of our personality get shared. It's funny actually, cause Lucy always wants to fight now, and I seem more alert to stuff like this. Not a bad trade off if you ask me." The females giggled. "I feel bad for the next person who challenges her actually, she is itching for a good fight once she gets back." I laughed as I got shocked looks. "What? It's true. Any way why are you waiting on Luce?" I turned my attention back to Levy.
"Cause I can't get married without my best friend!" She said matter-of-factly. I put my hands up in defeat, laughing once more. I ruffled Levy's hair playfully. "And because Lu-chan and I made a promise that she would help me make it as amazing as yours was." This got a glare from Mira. "You were gonna be the next I told, I swear!" Levy smiled nervously.
"Well now that the cat's out of the bag, can I start planning? Pretty please? I promise not to tell Lucy!" Mira grabbed Levy's hands encasing them with her own.
"Well now that Natsu knows, it's kind of pointless to keep it a secret, right?" She nudged me playfully in the side, and I could feel a real joyous laugh come to the surface.
"Yea the next time I talk to her she will know everything, even if I don't want her to. There is nothing hidden between us anymore." There was a chorus of cooing from the female mages. I just laughed and asked Mira for a refill.
"You seem a lot calmer today." Lissanna added looking me over from the bar, I hadn't noticed that she had joined Mira at all. I raised an eyebrow in contemplation, thinking over her comment for a long moment.
"I guess it's because I decided to released the block I put on the link when I was talking to Levy, I can sort of feel how relaxed Lucy is and it calms me down. I'm not getting her thoughts or anything, just getting a general sense of peace. If I didn't know better I would say she has her nose in a book." Levy and I looked at each other for a minute before busting out in laughter.
"Yep if anyone would take a book to a serious training mission it would be Lu-chan." Levy struggled to say through her giggles.
** Celestial Realm Lucy's POV **
I looked up over the pile of book with a yawn. "Find anything good?" Loke asked from a ladder not to far from my table. I nodded slightly, holding up a stack of papers, before laying my head on the open book in front of me. My notes were beyond numerous, thus many pages were scattered all around the table, but I held the important ones in a protective cradle against my chest.
"I'm going to take a little nap soon. Could you possibly deliver these to Levy-chan for me?" I yawned again, ignoring the giggles that came from Lupus to my left. We had spent half the week going through several hefty volumes of history books and registrars trying to figure out a plan, and who best would fit into this plan. I was grateful that my companions had graciously decided to stick with me. Together we had compiled a large list of Spirits who could be helpful, and I intended on talking to them during the ceremony at the end of the week. I had also found several helpful spells for my friends back home. The pile I held in my hand was strictly that, and Levy would know exactly how to go about handing them out, as I took the liberty to write her a sweet little note. I missed the little book worm, almost as much as I missed Natsu and Happy.
"Of course! Go get some rest you have been going none stop for days." Loke gave me a semi reproachful glare, I just yawned again and handed the papers over, with a muttered thanks. "Lupus and Lynx can you get her to her room while I'm out?" They both beamed brightly, grabbing one arm each as they dragged me from my comfortable book.
** Earth Land Natsu POV **
There was a puff of smoke, and suddenly Loke was standing beside me grinning. "She's done." He had a pile of papers folded into his arms, and a tired look on his face.
"Why are you here and not her then?" I said a little harsher than I had intended.
"Errand boy." He shrugged off my question and turned to Levy holding out the stack of papers. "Levy, Lucy asked me to deliver these, she has been couped up in the library for the past couple days working on it so please follow her instructions carefully." Levy squealed as she grabbed the heavy stack.
"Wow, Lu-chan has been busy!" Levy commented as she started, quite enthusiastically, shuffling through the pages.
"So if her training is done, how long till she comes home?" I asked unable to hide my unease, Loke gave me a hardened expression.
"Right now we are forcing her to rest. Damn girl is stubborn you know. We have two days in our world before her Coronation, then she is free to go, but she may stay longer since she has been insisting on going over every book in the damn library." Loke took a chair next to Gray, and asked Mira for a strong drink. Mira smiled brightly as she handed over a tall glass filled with dark amber liquid.
"She is over working herself still?" Mira asked softly. To our surprise Loke let out an exasperated sigh.
"Between training and research, she has had us going for over a month straight! Barely any sleep, hardly stopping to eat, and she has been glue to that stupid chair for the most of the week. I had to get Lupus and Lynx to drag her to her bed room, as she was finally starting to pass out. She can be a little demon sometimes you know! Every time I suggested she get some sleep the stupid fox had to butt in and say that she could handle it. Stupid fox keeps encouraging her to push her limits to the breaking point. If she would just let me, I'd wipe the smirk off his stupid face." Mira took Loke's a tall mug with a bright smile and refilled it.
"Thanks for looking after her for us." She patted his hand softly after giving him the his drink back.
"So what's going to happen at the coronation?" I leaned into the table, intent on learning more. Lucy hadn't mentioned anything about this, but we had been out of contact for a little while now so I wasn't surprised that much.
"She will officially accept her title as the Celestial Queen. It's a formality to activate her key. We'll be getting all dressed up and she will have to make a speech letting the whole place know she will take on the Celestial name of the Queen, and the Spirits will hold a ball to celebrate. The King has been planning it since we headed off to train, it should be a rather big event. OH! Shit I completely forgot, Lucy needs a dance partner! Did you want me, Vulpi or Lynx to escort her in your place?" Loke looked a little nervous, as he added the last part, and I didn't blame him. My right eye twitched slightly at the options.
"If I really had to choose, it would be the little guy. At least he doesn't hit on my wife." I shot Loke a dirty glare. "But it's not really my choice, ask Lucy who she prefers. But if she picks that Vulpi guy I expect you to keep a close watch. He is too, well, I just don't want him alone with her. Got it?" Loke laughed nervously, rubbing the back of his head.
"You know I would never let that happen. Like I'd lose to that stupid fox anyway." Loke grumbled, tilting back his mug to finish off his drink.
"Shouldn't you be getting back?" Gray asked as he stretched, a mug collided with the side of his head as Cana hissed.
"Maybe we aren't done talking to him!" Mira and Lissanna glared with just as much venom making Gray shake under their stares.
"Actually he is right. Lucy should be waking up soon, and she has been a slave driver lately. I wanna catch a nap before she started making me haul around large books again." Loke bid his farewells before disappearing in a cloud of smoke.
"I guess she'll be back tomorrow then." I said with a bright smile. There was a small cheer from the bar, I looked around to see all the happy faces. Fate was really kind to me recently, giving me great comrades, a place to call home, and an amazing person to call mine. "So Levy what did she send for you?" Levy's eyes never left the paper as she answered.
"Lu-chan sent a bunch of spells for everyone to learn. She gave me instructions as to who gets what and how to go about giving them their instructions." Levy began sorting out the large pile, spreading them across the bar. "She has a bunch here for Wendy and me, one for Lissanna, two for Cana. She has strict instructions for you as well Natsu." She looked up slightly fearful. I urged her to continue. "Um, Laxus, Lu-chan says to give this to you." Levy got up and walked over to the tall blonde, handing him a small stack of papers. Laxus shuffled through it with an eerie smirk before he clapped his hands together.
"Oh, dear cousin, you know me so well." I heard his knuckles crack as he moved towards me. "You're gonna have fun with me punk." I shuttered looking over at Levy, pleading for an explanation.
"Lu-chan said that I am to hand your training over to Laxus. She said that he will whip you into shape before she gets home." Levy laughed nervously as Laxus grabbed my collar, dragging me from the room. "Well, everyone else come here I'll give you the things Lu-chan sent." I cursed as I watched the others gleefully accept their papers from a smiling Levy. Ok maybe fate decided it didn't like me THAT much.
** Celestial Realm Lucy's POV **
As my dreams faded away, I resisted opening my eyes. The fatigue of going none stop was beginning to set in allowing my whole 'self' to feel heavy and groggy. Against my wishes, a yawn escaped my lips, alerting my bed mates to the fact that I was finished my nap. "That was a LONG nap." Lupus giggled. "Are you ready to start getting dressed?" She smiled brightly as she jumped off the edge of the bed doing a little pirouette. I giggled as she continued to dance around happily.
"I suppose I'll take a bath, how long was I asleep for?" I sat up rubbing the back of my hand against my heavy eye lids. I honestly didn't even remember getting into my bed let alone pajamas. Slowly I slide my legs over the side of the bed, stretching.
"It's been about two days right Lynx?" Lupus pulled the slightly taller boys ear to get his attention. Lynx twitched, looking up with the same sleepy gesture I had preformed moments before.
"Yep the Coronation is tonight." Lynx said before he curled back into a ball. I swore I could hear him purring as he drifted off to sleep once more.
"Wow, I guess I over did it a little." I gave my short companion a nervous giggle which she returned with a joyful hug.
"Lucy-nee, you worked very hard, so you deserved to rest." I wrapped my arms around her and laughed.
"Lets got take a bath then, I get really gross when I sleep that long." Lupus followed me to the bathroom smiling brightly.
"Shall I match you tonight Lucy-nee?" We giggled at the thought before jumping into the over sized tub. We discussed what the others had been doing while I was 'napping' and it seemed that my work had been completed with the help of my faithful spirits. This made me smile, I truly needed the help so I could get home. "Does this mean you'll be leaving soon?" Lupus's ears drooped, as she cast her sight down. It truly broke my heart to think that I would have to leave my precious siblings behind.
"I have something important to take care of, Lupus. You understand how important this is right?" I tucked my curved index finger under her chin to force her eyes up. "I promise that I will not abandon you." Her dark eyes filled with tears, but she nodded giving a weak smile. We promptly started a splashing war once more, sending our laughter echoing through the place. I felt light and happy, though the knot that was residing at the bottom of my stomach stayed as a constant reminder that it was nearly time to face my next task.
Cancer and Virgo came to help me prepare, bringing a gown for myself as well as my small companion. Lupus did as she had suggested and wore a very similar gown to my own. She looked adorable in the tea-length golden silk gown, a band of glittering crystals dripped from the lace ribbon wrapped around her mid section, it reminded me a little of the gown Wendy wore to my wedding. Cancer had pulled her long dark hair up in a crown around her head, lacing gold ribbons careful not to get her ears caught as he worked his magic. He placed crystals, that sparked beautifully in the moon light, allowing them to drip down around her face and neck.
I myself wore a gown that was gold silk the fabric billowed out around my frame, it had a beautiful little train. The bodice hugged my every curve, though the lace in the back was not nearly as retraining as my loathsome corsets had always been tied. Delicate lace snaked its way over the bodice cover up to my collar bone before it spilled across to my arms, leaving my shoulders bare. The lace sleeves gave way, billowing for about two inches around my elbows. The skirt was pined up in graceful scallops with crystals on an uneven angle across my front. I stepped into golden ankle boots, allowing Virgo to lace them up for me. Cancer pulled my hair up in wistful sweeping curls and braids, crystals and pearls dangles and dance with my every movement I made. I was surprised to see my fairytail emblem bracelet, as well as my mother's jewelery waiting on the vanity. " We took the liberty of bringing them here for you, Princess." Virgo bowed. I only smiled, unable to bring the words to be audible, I took great comfort in the weight of my mother's keepsakes as all my spirits were aware. With a final glance Cancer placed the tiara securely atop the maze of braids and curls. He dusted my eyes with the, all to familiar, gold dust and painted my lip crimson.
As he started to put his supplies away, I decided to walk over to the floor length mirror. I playfully running my fingers across my little dragon that lay hiden under the lace of my gown. 'I wish you could be here with me.' I missed Natsu more than he would ever know.
'You'll do fine. Loke told me all about it.' His voice was gentle and warm as a summer breeze. 'He can be my substitute if you want.' I smirked at the under tones of mistrust.
'I suppose he will be sufficient, but I wish it were you here with me.' The feelings of longing were passed mutually between us.
'I'm off training with Laxus, on your command. So Loke will have to do for now.' He teased back. 'Will you be coming home soon?' He wanted to stay calm but I could tell that he was excited at the prospect of unfreezing my body.
'Tomorrow for me. so yes very soon. It'll be about half an hour for you. I need you to head back to the Guild with Laxus and get Gray's help to thaw my body. I can't wait to come home.' I smiled at the waves of relief and pure joy that washed over me.
'You look amazing by the way.' I twisted in the mirror smiling brightly and winked. 'I'm going to head down now. Enjoy your last night there Lucy, I will see you very soon.' we whispered our I love yous before we dropped the link.
When I turned to head for my door I was very surprised to see my four companions dressed to match. "The Princess's royal guard has come to escort her to the ball." Vulpi grinned before bowing low, the other two boys followed suit, as Lupus did a delicate curtsy.
"Well then my good sirs," I struggled not to giggle, I pulled on a pair of lace gloves that Lupus was keeping safe. I gave her a nod as I continued "And gentle lady, shall we go?" Lynx moved to open the door, Vulpi took the lead in our little party, Lupus stayed to my side, which as we exited, Lynx took up the other, leaving Loke to bring up the rear. I smiled back playfully to my companions as we made our way to the Great Hall.
As we entered I noticed many spirits had their heads bowed, yet the smiles on their faces never faltered. I was glad for that, I waved hello to each as I passed on my way to my seat. Vulpi stationed himself protectively behind me, as Lupus and Lynx seated themselves on red velvet cushions on the floor to either side of me. Loke took his seat to the far right, as he had the day I arrived in this magically wonderful place. I settled gracefully into my seat, surveying my surroundings.
Not to far from the throne platform stood a slightly elevated stage. I took stock that nearly a full orchestra could fit on its broad surface. The musicians I caught between moving their personal belonging around, smiled happily at me and bowed in respect. At the fore front I saw Lyra waving happily, before she positioned her lyre on her lap. Her gaze softened as she gracefully plucked at the strings, soon a solo violin joined in, the melody coated me in warmth. The soft notes reached into my heart and melted away any nervousness that was left.
I had become so engrossed in the melody that I unintentionally tuned everything else out. I noted the delicate sound of a piano joining the accompaniment. As the song came to a close I felt a warm hand on my should. I was finally broken from my reverie, as I looked up to see my father's smiling face.
"It's time" He whispered.
I turned to face the crowded hall, a new song flowing from Lyra, the gentle violin filling me with strength.
May it be an evening star
Shines down upon you
May it be when darkness falls
Your heart will be true
You walk a lonely road
Oh! How far you are from home
"I am truly glad to have met each and every one of you. Today is the start of something new for us all. Here I will accept my title, not only as the new Celestial Goddess, but as your Queen. "
Morni ut li ([Quenya:] Darkness has come)
Believe and you will find your way
Morni alanti ([Quenya:] Darkness has fallen)
A promise lives within you now
"As such I will take on the spirit name Cassiopeia."
May it be the shadow's call
Will fly away
May it be your journey on
"I am a spirit as much as you are, and I love every one of you from the bottom of my heart. But, tomorrow I will leave this place to return to my world as a human."
To light the day
When the night is overcome
You may rise to find the sun
"I would like you all to lend me your strength in the hard days that are to come."
Morni ut li ([Quenya:] Darkness has come)
Believe and you will find your way
"From this day fourth there is no more contracts between summoner and summoned."
Morni alanti ([Quenya:] Darkness has fallen)
A promise lives within you now
"From this point onward we are Comrades! Family!"
A promise lives within you now
There was an out cry of cheers. "Well spoken! As a symbol of your activation, behold the tiara of the celestial goddess will show it's true form." I was enveloped in a gold light, and when it dissipated my father was holding a beautiful crown. "Here lies the proof of Our Queen, Corona, the Crown of the Celestial Queen." The new golden gleaming metal was replaced upon my head. I could feel a rush of power as my father hands pulled away, a pale gold light enveloped me once more. I glanced around the room to see all those present bow silently. "Now my child, you are ready to face any foe. For we stand with you no matter how far you may go." He pulled me into a tight hug, as I allowed tears of joy to escape in a limited number.
A sense of pride and accomplishment washed over me in a way I had never felt before. This is what I had always dreamed of, ever since I can remember. This was what it was like to be loved unconditionally by your father, this felt so natural, so right.
"Let us Celebrate!" He released me as the crowd's cheers increased, I replaced myself into my throne with a bright smile. Enjoying the sight of so many happy faces.
Suddenly the hall was filled with lively music, Lyra strummed an up beat tempo, she was joined shortly by the rest of the musicians. I could hear a chorus of clapping and the steadily raising sound of clicking heels on marble floors. I giggled at one of the stout little musicians who's brightly colored frock swished as he jumped about, blowing merry and bright notes from his flute. His feet flitted about to the beat in a complicated pattern. I watched on quite amused because the man truly reminded me of an imp with his pointed nose and slightly elongated ears.
My attention was drawn back to the crowd as I noticed they had paired off. The couple faced each other, the hands in between their bodies, raised up palm to palm. I giggled as a new song started and the couples began to skip to and fro, while circling one an other. I clapped happily as I studied their movements.
I only broke from my amused trance when a gentle yet strong hand lay on my shoulder. I looked over to see Loke who held a tall glass of transparent bubbling liquid. "Figured you might want to enjoy your last night." He smiled sheepishly as he offered the glass to me. I accepted graciously, thankful to have such wonderful friends. I sipped the liquid and was pleased to find it was as delicious as the wine that Cana had hand selected for me.
"You know, I'm really going to miss this place." I whispered over my shoulder. Loke tried his best to put on his serious face, pushing up his glasses before he spoke.
"We are as much your family as Fairytail is. This is your home too, and you can come home when ever you feel the need." Completely unable to stop myself at the kind words, I found my arms reach out and warp themselves around his neck. Loke let out a startled yelp before returning the gesture in full force. Abruptly he cut off the hug and backed away, bowing slightly so that I could see his playful grin. "May I have the pleasure of a dance with your Highness?" He extended a gloved hand. I couldn't help but giggle at the sudden formal gesture, as I decided to play along.
"Why of course, fair knight." I smiled brightly as I placed my gloved hand in his. We made our way down from the podium, my dress billowing behind me. I was vaguely aware that the dance floor had cleared and the music had died away. Loke took up the traditional stance, and I followed his lead. Lyra's voice broke the silence accompanied soon by a deep bass drum and the strumming of a mandolin, and violins. Loke took a step forward with his right foot, then back to its original position. He then stepped back with his left foot and replaced it. I joined him as I listen to Lrya's words, ring out.
I hear your voice on the wind
And I hear you call out my name
"Listen, my child," you say to me
"I am the voice of your history
Be not afraid, come follow me
Answer my call, and I'll set you free"
Loke skipped as we entered the short interlude, spinning us in a circle.
I am the voice in the wind and the pouring rain
I am the voice of your hunger and pain
I am the voice that always is calling you
I am the voice, I will remainLoke let go of my hand and crossed to my other side, claiming the opposite side. It didn't take me long to catch on to the rhythm and pace he had set, I was surprised to see how good he was at leading.
I am the voice in the fields when the summer's gone
The dance of the leaves when the autumn winds blow
Ne'er do I sleep thoughout all the cold winter long
I am the force that in springtime will grow
His foot work picked up grabbing my hand, and spinning me round in a circle, to the steady rhythm of the violin's solo. We picked up the pace, heels clicking loudly, as the next verse speed up.
I am the voice of the past that will always be
Filled with my sorrow and blood in my fields
I am the voice of the future, bring me your peace
Bring me your peace, and my wounds, they will heal
I am the voice in the wind and the pouring rain
I am the voice of your hunger and pain
I am the voice that always is calling you
I am the voice
I am the voice of the past that will always be
I am the voice of your hunger and pain
I am the voice of the future
I am the voice, I am the voice I am the voice, I am the voice
Lyra let out a beautiful high note to bring the song to a close this brought cheers from the crowd. Loke and I bowed respectfully to one another, before Lynx ran over and grabbed my wrist. A peppy tune came subtly from the musicians, as it picked up pace, so did we. I pulled the train on my dress up and wrapped it round to tuck into my bodice as we flitted back and forth, feet shuffling, heels clicking in time to the music. I was laughing harder than I ever remembered laughing before.
The merriment continued as Vulpi to over. A fast paced jig started to play, and he tucked my arm into the crock of his own as we spun round tapping our feet to the timing of the drums. He brandished his oh so Natsuish grin at me, and I melt. I allowed him to lead me all over the dance floor as we bobbed together, his one arm draped round my waist the other holding my hand. My night was spend being passed around, and to be honest I had never had so much fun. I was able to speak freely with so many of the spirits on my list that I felt completely satisfied. When the time came to bid farewell, I smiled at each and every face.
"I may call you if the situation is dire, is there anyone who objects?" The room was dead silent. "I will miss you all dearly till I return!" My 'personal guard' escorted me back to my room, where Lupus and I promptly fell on the bed in a fit of laughter. "I wish you could just come with me!" I huffed.
A/N: If you didn't get a chance to read it with the music the first time I suggest this order. 'The river flows in you' follow that with 'May it be', then any of the upbeat songs followed by the 'the voice' as those are the order I wrote them in! ^_^
