Hey, it's been a while... hasn't it? It's felt like that for me, I apologize if it has for you guys as well. I just haven't really been motivated to write lately... But I'm forcing myself. I will do this!

Maybe with your comments I'll be even more motivated? It doesn't take that long to write to me. Do it, I like seeing my readers care about getting another chapter.

Hmmmmmm... I got a CHALLENGE! I challenge you all to comment on this chapter, and whoever writes the best one will be featured in this story! (I got a lot of room for OC's, so It's pretty chill) I'll try to message you within one week of your comment for the details. Good luck!

~Enjoy

Chapter 13: One fist at a time

"Again." Natsu said for the millionth time. I panted as I lifted my fists once again to punch his calloused hands. Sweat rolled down my face and back, and I felt like I had been submerged in water.

"H-How long are we... are we going to keep doing this?" I asked as My arms started to fail me once more. I was so sore, so tired.

"Until you get your form right. C'mon, I know you got the fight in ya, we just gotta get it out." Natsu bent his knees more, his eyes teasing me, and his grin mischievous. "C'mon, hit me harder." I shook my arms, I rolled my neck, and I stared at his hands. "One fist at a time." I told myself. I hit him, again, and again, until the same thing happened.

"Natsuu, I can't dooo this!" I whined as my back slumped. Natsu stood there with his hands on his hips. "Honestly Lucy, one would think you would'a tried harder, after all, you got an entire army after you. But no, the prissy little princess is gonna die because she can't even throw a decent fist. I can't-"

"AAARRRRGH! Shut up you cocky bastard!" I exclaimed as my leg shot up and kicked him square in the jaw. Natsu flew back, and hit a tree. My chest heaved as I stood recovering from the sudden rush of adrenaline.

Natsu looked miserable. He rubbed where a purple spot was quickly growing. "I... Knew you had it in ya..." He said weakly.

I rushed to his side. "Ohmymavis! Natsu! Are you OK?!"

"Yeah, I'm fine. I was... actually hoping you would do something like that."

I furrowed my brow. "What do you mean?" Natsu suddenly turned serious when his eyes met mine. "I was trying to see what your dexterity was. It clearly wasn't your fists, but in order to find your fighting talent I had to... well... piss you off."

"I see. And what is my dexterity?"

"Unicorns."

I glared at him. "That's not funny." he chuckled. "No, I mean look." He pointed behind me. I turned around, and just beyond a row trees stood a black unicorn almost glistening in the rays of the golden sun. It stood high and mighty as it reached for a few tasty leaves.

My breath caught in my throat, and my eyes focused on the creature. "It's- It's beautiful." I gasped. Had the fairies sprinkled glitter on it? Even though it was black, it almost seemed translucent; almost as if it were a mirage.

Natsu stood up, and offered his hand to me. Together we stood, and admired the rarity. "I thought unicorns were white?" I mumbled. I felt Natsu smile as he looked down at me. "Unicorns are already extremely rare. I guess we just happened to come across the rarest of them all." For a moment my eyes locked onto his, but I quickly turned away. "Y-Yeah. I-I guess." Stop stuttering! What is your deal with this guy, Lucy! I yelled at myself internally. Suddenly I felt a nudge on my shoulder. I looked back to find the unicorn with its horn nearly piercing Natsu's collar. Natus laughed nervously, and stepped away. "This horse reminds me of Erza." He said while sweat profusely ran down his face.

I laid my hand upon it's cheek, and stroked it. The unicorn huffed, and nuzzled my face. I giggled. "Oh, this is great! Natsu come pet him!"

Natsu took another step back. "Nah, I'm good. I have a bad feeling 'bout him." I pouted. Oh well, I get to pet the unicorn!

The unicorn eventually galloped off. I felt fulfillment rise in my chest. I, out of all people, was able to be with such an amazing creature.

The sun was still in the sky, but it started going lower. Natsu was resting on a bed of moss with his hands folded behind his head. I walked over to him, and sat next to him. He's handsome. His strong features suit him well, but his lips... They look soft. They look out of place, yet contrast well. I can't help but linger on them. They're slightly parted as he quietly snores.

I start to think about last night when he pinned me to the ground. It's not the first time he's kept me in such a position, but with our playful banter it didn't feel threatening. It felt... I don't know how to describe it... We stayed in that position to catch our breath, but... the way he looked at me. I could've sworn his eyes flamed as he took me in. It felt... intimate. I felt... like... he-

NO! if I convince myself he does then things will change, and this quest will become awkward. If I act any different he's going to push me away, and I can't have that happening!

Natsu stirred slightly, and I released a breath I didn't know I had been holding. I should stop thinking nonsense.

"Natsu?" I asked. He yawned much like a cat would -adorable- and looked up at me. "Wassup?"

"I have to ask you something."

"Shoot,"

"What's my dexterity? You never gave me an answer."

Natsu sat up and scratched the back of his neck. "Oh, sorry. It's... Uh, well.. It's your legs."

Of course it is.

Don't forget to comment, my lovelies! I'll announce the winners next chapter! Keep an eye out for it!

Love Y'aaaaaaaalllll

~locoanime