Author's Note: Hello everyone! I know another delay, but alas it could not be helped with work, moving, and sickness all around! I promise we are doing the best we can will providing quality chapters as quickly as we can and appreciate your patience on the matter! Anyway, it has been a fast two weeks and we know you all have been so anxious about finding out what happens next! My hope is that before I got on vacation next month, things will have calmed down and we can get back to our once a week chapter schedule.

I want to thank you all for your reviews and PMs! There is nothing quite as refreshing as reading your thoughts and your hopes for the best for this story and we will do my best to hopefully not disappoint your enthusiasm! Thank you all for being the best fans we could ever hope for! Please continue to give us your support and always let us know what you think so that we can provide better chapters!

Miskee's note: I appreciate everyone's patience with as well. I try to take my time in editing the chapters to make sure that CelestialMageLucy and I can provide to you the best story possible. I spend hours reading and rereading the chapter to make sure the emotions we want to portray come through. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if you feel as though there is something that you think I could improve upon as I am new to this myself and love your guys' input! Thank you all for your patience, I truly hope you enjoy chapter 14!

So without any further explanations, the song for this chapter is "I Want You To Know" by Zedd feat. Selena Gomez. Please give it a listen as you read, we think you will get a kick out of this chapter! So please enjoy and let us know what you think!

You and Me, We're The Same Force

~Chapter Fourteen~

Natsu closed the entrance door behind him as he stood outside of it. He took the a few precious moments to listen to the conversation going on inside of his home. His impeccable hearing made it rather easy to eavesdrop on everyone as they were catching up with Lucy. He softly smiled when he heard Lucy's laughter; loving the elation in her demeanor. He quickly found that when Lucy was happy, much like the beloved Exceed, all was right in the Dragon Prince's world. They were a family after all and Natsu certainly wouldn't have it any other way. His sense of peacefulness was short lived however, when he overheard Levy gearing the conversation to more mature content. Natsu blanched as he heard the teasing as well as Lucy's bashful, yet awful attempt to evade. Before he could listen any further though, two elite guards were coming down the hall, making their presence known to the Prince.

Inwardly pouting at his unfortunate luck, Natsu would have to remind himself later to ask Lucy about the visit. Without needing an explanation, Natsu was escorted by the two guards to an unknown destination to meet with his first potential Princess bride. It became evident, much to Natsu's surprise, that instead of being led to one of the many rooms used for entertaining guests, he was ushered towards the training grounds. An unsettling feeling took root in the pit of his stomach while his blood chilled. A sweat broke out as he caught sight of the striking vision of beauty that stood in the middle of the training arena. A warm breeze played with her scarlet red tresses. The goddess wore a beautiful gown that fit her magnificent body like a glove and was far too exquisite to be worn inside the training arena. To say her face was beautiful would be an understatement; it is the envy of any woman of all the kingdoms. She was stunning – breathtaking really – the very definition of grace. Her dark chocolate, almond shaped eyes sharpened as she spied the Dragon Prince's arrival. Natsu slowed his pace. This exquisite creature was in a regal gown of silver and dark blue hues. Her crimson locks were intricately pulled into an up-do, giving her even more of a presence; the loose strands dancing in the wind. She distinctly smelled of desert roses and exotic spices. A soft smile graced her lips while amusement played in the depths of her eyes.

Natsu gulped at the uncharacteristic way she was meeting with him. He had the distinct feeling that he was walking into some sort of trap. Finally he had reached the gates where the two guards separated from him and continued on their way. The stunning maiden awaited him; strangely patient. Natsu walked past the gate and approached her with extreme caution.

"You know, it is rude to keep visitors waiting." The woman smiled fondly.

"Well my apologies Princess Erza. I just returned from my trip earlier this morning. My brother informed me that you had been waiting. Although, gotta question why you wished to meet me all the way out here?" he replied. Natsu folded his arms behind his head and relaxed slightly.

The woman he addressed as Princess Erza had let out a sigh, "You know Natsu – you really should take your duties more seriously. How can I expect to marry someone like you when you lack manners and constantly become distracted?" she nagged.

"It wasn't my fault! My brother didn't write to tell me that you had arrived sooner than expected. Besides, you are one to talk! Who shows up early for their potential engagement meeting and has it in the training field no less?!" Natsu defended himself hotly. He did not miss the slight narrowing of Erza's stare that glared pointedly at him.

"Oh-ho now? Are you really blaming me for being professional and formal in regards to your invitation?" Erza's tone darkened and Natsu was quickly reminded of just who he was talking with. The once pleasant air became insufferably stagnant as the relaxing breeze stilled. Natsu broke into sweat as he caught Erza's challenging gleam.

"Di-did I say that? What I-I meant was that I wa-was away and should have known b-better-" He back-pedaled; attempting to climb out of the hole he dug himself.

"Save it! I see now how serious you take this proposal!" Erza rebutted, her narrowed gaze unflinching. Her body began to softly glow. Her long hair became undone, cascading around her face and the new metal head piece. The beautiful gown faded away as an armored breastplate with wings appeared – her perfectly toned belly now exposed. A white skirt, reinforced with matching armor, replaced the remaining of the dress and her stilettoes were exchanged for sabatons. A wheel of swords appeared out of thin air, encircling the now battle-ready beauty. A heated, determined gaze locked onto Natsu as Erza shifted into her combat stance.

When Natsu saw her change into Heaven's Wheel he began to inwardly freak out – she was not fucking around. Here he was supposed to be winning Erza's affections – not fighting her!

"Erza wait-"

"Oh no Natsu Dragneel! I have waited long enough! You are clearly not taking the prospect of marriage with me seriously, so then I will show you that I am not so easily obtainable! If you wish to marry me, then you must prove your worth! How can I depend on you as a husband when you cannot even act like a man?!" Erza coldly spoke.

"Now wait just a min-"

"I told you that the time of waiting is over! I hope you have prepared yourself Natsu Dragneel because I do not plan to lose to you; not this day or any other for that matter! If you want me, then come and claim me!" Erza drew on her favorite sword out of the thin air and gripped it tightly in her hand; a beautifully crafted metal with intricate design and flawless polish – the envy of any battle weapons enthusiast. Natsu, however, knew this might very well be a death battle. He knew how serious the woman from the desert kingdom was. It was no secret that Erza's legendary beauty matched her lethal skill in battle. There were few sane people that ever wished to willingly to engage in combat with this desert flower; and even fewer insane ones that enjoyed the thrill-Natsu being among them. Usually he would relish in the opportunity to exchange blows with one of the fiercest women in all the kingdoms. But this time was completely different. Natsu wanted to make Erza a possible candidate to work with his situation with Lucy and instead he might have triggered a trap that may very well end his life abruptly.

Erza tightened her grip on the heavy steel, barely giving Natsu enough time to roll up his sleeves before she was upon him. The battle was swift, painful, and one-sided. Natsu did not have a prayer in hell of lasting longer than a few precious moments as Erza brought down swift justice. She left no opportunity for Natsu to retaliate as he could only block her onslaught attacks – one after another with her seasoned combat skills. Natsu had a few gashes on his arms where the blade connected; his own blood stained and ruined his clothing. An angry bruise formed on the side of his jaw from where the hilt of the sword back handed him. He knew for certain that it was going to hurt like hell later. He knew that if returned to Lucy in his condition that she might very well go after Erza herself. Seemingly from nowhere, a heavy blow connected with Natsu – interrupting his thoughts as his world fell into black and his back connected with the earth.

When he had managed to come to, everything was still agonizingly dizzy and his head throbbed. His back was still on the dirt and the tip of Erza's sword pointed ever so dangerously at his neck. Natsu gulped in agony.

"Do you give up, Natsu Dragneel, on this ridiculous notion of marriage?"

"Wha-"

"Say the words!" Erza snapped with a hellfire in her once warm orbs.

"Yes! For fuck's sake put that thing away! You know a simple 'not interested' by response would have been the proper method you psycho!" Natsu snarled out. An inch closer the blade pressed to his vulnerable throat quieted the man, but his own expression matched the warrior woman.

"Watch your words with me, Dragon Prince."

"Yeah, yeah I get it. Put that thing away already." Natsu growled. After a few moments of staring each other down, Erza reverted back to her previous formal attire – completely unscathed and looking as fresh as ever. Natsu sat up in the ground holding his head. He felt a sticky solution that smelled of iron. His temple was bleeding. Erza made no move to help him, but instead stepped back.

"My Father will not be pleased with this favorable prospect of marriage not working out, but he will simply not push anymore. This union was doomed from the start." she spoke curtly.

"You don't say," Natsu replied sarcastically as he glanced t her, "Is that what this was all about? Your father wanting the marriage?"

"I don't know what you are going on about." Erza looked away.

"Yeah. Thought so." he shook his head slightly and pulled himself off the ground. "Man, Luce is gonna kill me when I get home to her." he wobbled slightly. So far, today had not gone anywhere near how he expected. Being caught off guard and viciously assaulted by his first prospect was definitely not something he had prepared himself for. If he had known that this is what he was coming home to, when he had a piece of heaven in his arms this morning, he would have simply refused to return.

"Luce?" the red-headed woman's interest peaked as she returned her attention to Natsu, who was heading awkwardly in the direction of the benches.

"What's it to you?" he bitterly snapped as he wetted a towel with drinking water, in an attempt to clean up the blood and dirt on his body; a modest attempt of trying to prevent infection from setting.

Erza had followed closely behind him, "Watch your tone with me Natsu. Just because we are not to be partners in life, does not mean we are not allied companions." she warned

"Friends? You just kicked the shit outta…. Ya know what, never mind." Natsu abruptly diverted his line of thought. He almost admitted being beaten and if there was one thing the Prince hated was to admit defeat so easily. He instead allowed himself to entertain the idea that he simply allowed her to win – that she somehow took advantage of him being unprepared, allowing her to achieve victory.

"Who is Luce?" Erza reverted his attention back to the topic at hand.

"No one. Stop asking about her. Bad enough you attacked me. No way in hell are you getting anywhere near her." Natsu's gaze took on a darker, more protective glare; one that Erza was all too familiar with.

"I see, so the rumors are true. The Lost Princess, that is your servant, is someone of great importance to you." Erza spoke matter-of-factly. Natsu didn't dignify Erza's perception with a response as he continued to clean the gashes on his arms. Erza grabbed her own clean towel and grabbed his arm without Natsu's permission and went to work assisting him.

"Is she pretty? What is she like? Can she also fight?" Erza inquired – intrigue getting the best of her.

"Stop talking. Luce is off limits." Natsu snarled. Erza didn't press as she continued to help clean him in silence. She could feel Natsu's anger radiating off him as she continued to help clean the wounds she had inflicted.

"I am in the same situation as you... My father wishes for this union to be made and I cannot condone it when my heart belongs to another." she softly spoke as she tenderly cleaned his gash on his temple. Natsu studied her, trying to make sense of her honesty and just who the hell was worthy enough for the most desirable Princess' affections.

"Hard to imagine you in love." Natsu rolled his eyes, earning him added pressure to his wound; eliciting a hiss from him in response.

"What was that?" Erza asked innocently. Natsu shot her another glowering look.

"Who's the lucky man?" he asked.

"First thing first. Tell me about the Lost Princess and your connection to her." Erza cunningly asked.

"I told you-"

"And I heard. But here is how this will play out: you will tell me about your secret lover and allow me to meet her and I will let you meet the man I love at the feast this evening." Natsu glared dangerously at the cool and collected desert Princess.

"I don't know what kind of game you are trying to play here, but you are gonna leave Lucy alone. She has enough people to visit her and she doesn't need to see a potential bride-"

"But you agreed to not make me a prospect for marriage; ergo, I can visit her if I so wish." Erza smugly replied, backing Natsu into a corner.

"That isn't how this works! This isn't how any of this works!" he growled out.

"You said other people visit her."

"Just Wendy and Levy."

"Oh! I see, so Levy is good enough, but alas I am not?"

'Levy hasn't tried to kill me. What makes you think I would let you near her?"

"Because I'll just visit her without your approval."

"Over my dead body." Natsu snarled as he pulled back, glaring dangerously.

"Oh-ho-ho, what is this?" Erza returned his challenging gaze with a gleam in her stare. Natsu fought back the shiver running up his spine and the instinct to back pedal. Something about Erza's strong will made stronger men than him fall in line. But this was Lucy; whom she just, in a roundabout way, threatened. Natsu was becoming quite aware that 'Lucy' was a trigger button for him and that he is extremely protective of her. Natsu suddenly stood, ignoring his injuries. Erza had followed his lead.

"Proceed with caution Princess. I can guarantee that you will like what happens if you even attempt to go after Lucy."

"Are you threatening me Dragneel?" Erza's mouth curled into a provoking smile. Natsu bared his teeth with fire in his eyes.

"A promise."

"Oh I like your spirit." Erza answered, licking her lips.

~Lucy~

Levy sat in the living area, drinking her fresh tea rather happily. A satisfied smile beamed across her face. It was the quite opposite, however, for the Lost Princess – who was purposefully avoiding eye contact with the bluenette. Lucy had given her payment, in full, to Levy when they were in the kitchen making the fresh pot of tea. A light blush seemed to now permanently stain Lucy's cheeks. Wendy sat as well, drinking her tea while eyeing the two women; both seemed to be acting peculiarly since rejoining her. To Wendy, Lucy was appeared bashful – almost uncomfortable; whereas Levy sported a smile that was reminiscent of the Cheshire cat. The Exceeds were in their own world, engaged in their own conversation about Carla going on a trip to visit her mother – the Queen of the Exceeds. Happy was attempting, in vain, to convince Carla to allow him to accompany her. Aside from their banter, the room was relatively quiet – until a commotion was heard down the hallway.

"What the…?" Levy trailed off, looking confused. Before a response could be made, the entrance door flung opened, revealing a woman more beautiful than anyone Lucy had ever seen. Her gorgeous hair was pinned into an intricate up-do and her stunning dress made her magnificent. There was no doubting she was royalty. It took Lucy a second to realize what, well more so whom, this woman was dragging behind her.

"Nat-"

"Oh look Natsu! What a lovely place you have. Very nice décor – I just have to get the name of your decorator! Oh my, and just who do we have here?! The Lost Princess perhaps?! I am Princess Erza Scarlet of the Desert Plains. You are Princess Lucy Heartfilia, are you not?" the Princess spoke nonchalantly as she barged into their home; all the while lugging an unconscious Dragon Prince in her wake.

"Erza? Is that you! How have you been?" Levy stood up, greeting her friend brightly.

"Oh Levy! You're believe you are here as well! So this is where everyone gathers nowadays? How lovely!" Erza beamed. She none-to-gracefully dropped the man harshly by her feet which elicited a painful groan. Both Levy and Erza continued their in conversation about their lives while Lucy and Wendy went to Natsu's aid. Lucy put Natsu's head in her lap while Wendy went to work healing the battered, bruised man. Lucy brushed the messy locks from Natsu's eyes to see his dirty face.

"Poor thing…." Wendy whispered, "Erza went overboard again."

"Erza did this?" Lucy eyed the intruder.

"She is a warrior princess. Don't think too badly of her though. She tends to go overboard when it comes to getting what she wants." Wendy whispered.

"Ah, I see..." Lucy glanced at the two friends, who were pleasantly catching up. Wendy continued to heal her older cousin that the desert Princess had put out of commission. The Exceeds were now at Wendy's side. Happy shook his head.

"Natsu must have done something stupid to make Erza again. He is always challenging her to a fight." Happy patted Natsu's head with his paw.

"If you say so..." Lucy murmured while brushing Natsu's hair tenderly. Suddenly Lucy was pulled to her feet and turned to face the scrutinizing gaze of Princess Erza Scarlet, leaving Natsu's head to hit the ground with a thud. Lucy felt her back straighten and almost broke into a sweat as she suddenly felt self-conscious. The way Erza seemed to be analyzing her made her feel extremely aware of her and Natsu's current situation. There was something about this striking woman that made Lucy feel inferior. Perhaps it was because she silently compared her appearance to that of the red headed goddess that exuded elegance. Or maybe it was her title that made Lucy feel she was a better candidate for Natsu's than she ever would.

Erza broke out into a beautiful smile, "So you are really her?"

"Excuse me?" Lucy couldn't help but feel a little put off by the question.

"You are the Lost Princess right? The heiress to the Heartfilia kingdom?" Erza inquired.

"I used to be… yes." Lucy felt her cheeks flare again as her feeling of self-consciousness only grew.

"Our kingdoms used to be allied. It's a shame what happened all those years ago."

"…yes, a shame…." Lucy could only reply awkwardly.

"Erza, this is Lu-chan – the one I have been writing about." Levy offered, trying to throw a lifeline to the celestial princess by joining her side.

"Yes, I can see. So you say she can bake?" Erza considered Lucy with a hunter's glint in her eye.

"Oh, Lucy's cakes are the best!" Wendy smiled up from where she was working.

"What about strawberry cakes?" Erza asked strategically.

"It is one of my favorites. I made some that are still in the kitchen-" Lucy stopped abruptly when she found herself being dragged into the kitchen, a giggling Levy following them. Natsu was left where he lay while Wendy and the others attempted to revive him. Lucy could only watch as Erza helped herself to the cake while Levy talked about other treats they all had made together.

"So you get to come here together every day and enjoy tasty treats while you visit?"

"Something like that…." Lucy helped herself to another slice while Levy nodded enthusiastically.

"That hardly seems fair…." The beautiful woman slightly pouted on her next bite of delicious cake.

"Not fair?" Lucy asked.

"Levy and Wendy get to see you whenever they wish." Erza continued her sulking, which earned a giggle between the two friends.

"Well, how long are you visiting for?" Lucy asked. As Erza was about to reply, another voice responded when coming into the kitchen.

"Not long Luce – so don't get attached." came the grumbling voice of a once unconscious man. He led the parade of Wendy and Exceeds, who were following after him into the kitchen. Instinctively, Natsu took his place beside Lucy and glowered at Erza as he guarded the person he cherished most.

"I fixed him up good as new!" Wendy beamed proudly while joining the group.

"Pity you aren't staying long Erza. Wendy and I would have loved for you to come and join us on our visits with Lucy." Levy sighed.

"Oh do not worry, I plan to join you during my time here." Erza replied smugly as she easily avoided meeting the dangerous leer from Natsu. He tightened his grip around Lucy's hip, pulling her into his side.

"What did I say earlier?" his voice was low.

"Oh? Your little attempt at ordering me around? I believe that is now null and void considering I knocked you out and lovely Lucy here has already made plans for us tomorrow." Erza smirked.

"What?!" Natsu's angered gaze shifted from Erza to the nervous girl by his side.

"Well…we sorta..."

"Luce! You don't know who she is or what she is capable of! She is a psycho!" Natsu ranted. Levy handed Wendy a slice of the tasty cake, while the Exceeds, led by Carla, returned to the living area with their collective sigh of 'kids'. Erza simply smiled.

"Oh dear, Natsu, it seems you wish for another rematch?"

"I warned you Erza, Luce is off limits."

"Seems 'Luce' has a mind of her own and is quite capable of making her own decisions." Erza pointed out while taking another bite of her cake.

"Natsu, she seems... rather kind – almost harmless... and besides we want peace right? Think of it as a show of good faith for your kingdom's alliances?" Lucy attempted to appeal to the Prince's interest. She heard the low growl emanating from his chest, but it wasn't near threatening.

"Luce, you saw what she did-"

"But you are always looking for a reason to fight her. What makes us think this time is any different?" Wendy joined after taking another bite.

"No way! Today was different!" Natsu argued.

"Likely story. You say that every time you fight my Gajeel." Levy eyed him suspiciously

"Natsu… if you really don't want me to…." Natsu sighed heavily at the uncertainty radiating off the girl in his arm.

"Do what you want. Just… be careful if you do hang around her."

"I have Happy to keep guard." Lucy smiled sweetly and kissed Natsu's cheek.

"No funny business Erza. I mean it. Not a hair on her head."

"Honestly Natsu, do you think me barbaric?" Erza asked, a threatening undertone laced with her innocent expression. "If anyone here is barbaric and lacking nobility – I would have to question your possessiveness of her."

"Hey, hey everyone, let's not let things get too heated. I just healed Natsu and I doubt that my powers will help a second time." Wendy cautioned.

"Be more considerate Natsu and not waste poor little Wendy's powers like that!" Levy hugged the child close, trying to hide the small smile under her attempt at a scowl.

"You do all realize you are in my home, right?" Natsu deadpanned un-fooled.

"Correction, Lucy also lives here." Erza quickly replied matter-of-factly.

"Happy too!" came Happy's voice from them from the living area.

"Are you saying Lu-cha has no say here?" Levy accused.

"Perhaps Lucy would like to stay with Mommy and me?" Wendy jumped at the chance to have Lucy to herself.

"Come, let us all leave if Natsu is so insistent on all of us not being here." Erza went to take Lucy, but she put a hand up smiling, exhausted by the banter from all directions. She could feel the anger shaking off of Natsu as his grip only held her more securely.

"That's enough ladies. Listen, I think you all are going a little too far with the teasing. Erza, please refrain from beating my Natsu. I like him in one piece. I think it is best we draw today's visit to a close." Lucy directed them.

"Aww, but Lucy, beating him was so much fun." Erza snickered playfully.

"I know, but tomorrow's another day and we have already made plans for a visit then, right?"

"But Luce-" Natsu attempted to interject.

"We will talk after they leave." Lucy kissed his cheek and Natsu did not protest. Lucy made quick work seeing everyone off with Erza reminding Natsu to be on time for the feast being held in her honor that evening. Natsu refused to acknowledge her as he began cleaning up while sulking. Lucy paid him no mind while waving at the entrance door as her friends, new and old, left. After closing the door, Lucy rested her back against it with a heavy sigh.

"That was really fun." Happy spoke brightly next to her.

Lucy smiled at him, "It sure was." She reached down and gathered him up in her arms. Happy cuddled close to her chest.

"I am glad you are back Lucy. I missed you." Happy sighed in content as he curled up into her warmth.

"Well, how about next time, you come with us?"

"Really?!"

"Of course, Lucy could always use the company when I am training." Natsu joined beside them in a slightly better mood. Happy looked between the pair and the fond expression that they were exchanging.

"Did I miss something?" he asked.

"Um n-no-"

"Lucy and I are together." Natsu grinned as he interrupted Lucy and wrapped an arm around her shoulder.

"Bout' time." Happy giggled at Lucy's redden cheeks.

"Happy, wanna help me move Luce's things to my room?" Natsu suddenly asked.

"Yay! I get my nap room back!" Happy cheered.

"Nap room?" Lucy questioned.

"That room used to be Happy's second bedroom." Natsu spoke as if it was the most natural thing in the world.

"Two bedrooms?!" Lucy exclaimed.

"Aye, now that you and Natsu will be rooming together, I will get my old room back again!" Happy gleefully replied.

"Oh boy, listened to the both of you." Lucy rolled her eyes. Natsu's grin only widened.

"C'mon Luce, let's get your things moved." He said, practically dragging her back towards the bedrooms.

~Sometime Later~

It didn't take long for Natsu to incorporate Lucy's belongings with his. Happy set up his second bedroom the way it once was before; which didn't differ much from when Lucy resided in it. Natsu watched as Lucy finally made herself comfortable in his room; incorporating her things into their closet and bathroom. He watched her as she flitted across the room while he managed his fire in the fire pit. His heart swelled with pride as Lucy was no longer keeping herself away from him, but rather engrossing herself into being together with him. She was his and there would be nothing his brother could do about it.

"Shouldn't you be getting ready for that event tonight?" Lucy asked, breaking through Natsu's admiration of her.

"Hn? What-oh right! Do I really have to go Luce?" He pouted while eying his fire.

"Personally I say no and to stay here with me. However, you can't stand-up Erza or look bad in front of everyone; especially your brother, who know will be watching. We don't want to draw attention like we did this morning." Lucy went and sat down beside Natsu, who was aimlessly eating some of his fire.

"I don't like any of this." he grumbled.

"Trust me, I like it even less than you do. But say we go against him right now, what do you think will happen?"

"He kills you and I go to war."

"A war you can't win right now."

"Fuck that! I would win… just might have a loss or two…. Regardless though, I don't want to risk you being killed." Natsu usual gusto trailed. Lucy smiled at him fondly and rested her head on his shoulder.

"So silly, but you at least understand that we are nowhere near ready to go against your brother aggressively. I want to end this peacefully and you know you do too. We just have to play nice for now. And besides, I really have nothing to worry about." Lucy smiled coyly after catching Natsu's eye.

"Oh?" his interest peaked.

"Erza isn't really your type and she has no real interest in you, ergo, nothing to worry about."

"Oh really now? You know you better be good to me 'cause I got options." he smirked earning him a playful shove from his beloved beside him.

"Let's just see how far that 'option' gets you when she knocks you out again."

"Hey! She cheated!"

"Not according to her. In all honesty, I am relieved…."

"Hey," Natsu lifted her chin to look at him, "No one and nothing is going to take me away from you alright? As far as I am concerned, you are my only priority. We will make this all work out. Besides, this is just a show to save face. I am coming right back to you before the night is even over. So wait for my return alright?" he gently pressed a heated kiss which melted Lucy's heart. Shortly thereafter, Lucy insisted that Natsu prepare himself, to which he begrudgingly agreed.

Now, Natsu found himself in his formal attire with the Scarlet heiress by his side. She effortlessly escorted him around to meet important guests in the lavish ballroom used for regal parties and special occasions. Erza introduced him to guests that had accompanied her caravan to visit the Dragneel's as well as guests that had arrived to meet the Desert Princess. King Zeref sat on his throne with a few of his council members as they idly chatted. Natsu was more than aware of his brother's gaze burning a hole on his back. He was being watched – his every move calculated. It seemed his brother was going to ensure that Natsu followed his planning with minimal interfering. Natsu let out a heavy sigh. How he dreaded formal occasions such as these. Why did he have to be the one stuck here? He'd much rather be back in his bed with a certain Celestial Princess screaming out his name.

Natsu was yanked violently out of his daydream by a painful jolt to his ribs from Erza, regaining his attention. He shot her a glare which she happily returned with her signature expression of innocence.

"Darling, be a dear and fetch me something refreshing to drink? I feel parched and need something to quell my thirst." Natsu opened his mouth to tell her exactly what he would do, but quickly caught the lethal look in her eye and better assessed his current situation. He reminded himself the role he should be playing by the esteem guests they were supposedly 'conversing' with; and by 'conversing' he meant Erza was entertaining them while he spaced out thinking of Lucy.

"Sure, water alright?" he cleared his throat.

"Wine sweetheart. The night is young and we are celebrating after all." Erza laughed lightly with the others.

"R-right." Natsu felt so out of place. As he turned to leave he could overhear Erza talk about how sweet he was to be concerned for her health as a safe cover-up. At least she didn't throw him completely under the horse. Natsu approached the bar and ordered the wine and fire whiskey for himself. As he waited, he felt a quiet, but equally as dangerous presence come up beside him. The man was unusual with deep, ocean colored hair, strong but dark eyes and his form shrouded in dark colors – but what made him unusual was the odd marking of a tattoo on his face. He was indeed strange, however, he was exceptionally powerful.

"Dragon Prince, it is an honor to finally meet you." the man commented lowly.

"Thanks…?" Natsu felt awkward.

"My apologies for my rudeness, my name is Jellal."

Jellal...Jellal...why does that name sound so familiar...? Natsu thought

"As much as you may think of gaining Erza's heart, I am afraid you are a bit too late; you see, it already belongs to me." The man explained kindly enough, but there was no mistaking the serious undertone of his voice.

"So you are the one Erza is with." Natsu was smart to reply just as quietly.

"In every sense of the word." Jellal smirked.

"Good, that saves me the trouble of things becoming complicated. I have no interest in Erza." Natsu had his drinks before him, but he was more so involved with the conversation his current conversation.

"I am well informed." Jellal replied, "Erza and I rarely keep secrets."

"Everything?" Natsu narrowed his gaze.

"Even the Lost Princess. Erza seems quite taken with her." Natsu rolled his eyes.

"Tell me something I don't know." Natsu said with a roll of his eyes.

"Well then, we have an understanding."

"That we do." Jellal clasped Natsu's arm, both giving a matching nod as they both reached an understanding. To those around them however, it looked to be nothing more than a greeting had taken place with no one the wiser.