Hi everyone!
I am a day or so late on this so sorry about that but this chapter is a bit of a doozy! I won't keep you long but I must warn. This may be a little darker than some may like. If violence is not your cup of tea, please do not read.
The song for the chapter is Star Crossed Wasteland by In This Moment. The music itself flows with the creep factor. The You Tube link is watch?v=fPLHlC9jJY8
I don't own Fairy Tail nor the song.
On to the reading!
Chapter 25 - Star Crossed Wasteland
"The dust is clearing, the desert is calm..."
Lucy fell back against the grass, her chest heaving in exertion as she reached up to swipe a hand across her sweat drenched brow. She was actually glad for the cool nip to the air. The chilly breeze felt good as it blew over her damp long sleeved work out shirt, the light grey material darkened in areas from sweat and black yoga pants. "You're trying to kill me aren't you?" She knew it was necessary and she was grateful but every morning for the last month had been the same. Get up at oh-dark-thirty, dress, summon Capricorn and then train. The goat pushed her limits every day; running further, working out muscles she didn't think she had or meditating longer.
Capricorn shook his head with a sigh before offering a hand to help the girl up. "You've made magnificent progress Lucy and you know I cannot kill you." He could not help but wish her mother were here to see the way she's grown. You'd be so proud Lady Layla. He knew she would be, he was. She'd grown into not only a beautiful, intelligent woman like his master before her, but had a growing magic capacity that was able to sustain two types of magic. "You were able to max out your spheres at seventy-five and maintain complete control of the increased lightning flow."
The celestial mage smiled and accepted the hand offered to pull herself up. She could see the look of pride in her goat's face and could not resist the temptation to throw her arms around his waist. A chuckle slipped out when she felt him tense a moment before returning the hug. "Thank you Capricorn," she said as she pulled back to look up at her spirit. "I know I curse and fight you tooth and nail daily but I truly do appreciate you helping me."
The spirit smirked and reached up to pat the top of her head before pulling back to fetch a bottle of water. "I know. Every time you call me Spawn of Satan or Ass Goat, I can feel your love." He had to chuckle at the names. He knew she did not mean them. All of her spirits knew that she truly loved and valued all of her spirits, he was no different. He valued her friendship and knew all too well that they were lucky to have her as their key holder. "But yes Lucy, I know you appreciate it and I am honored that you chose me to help you hone your skills. I can only imagine what you will be capable of once you and the dragon slayer are fully mated."
She grimaced and glanced up at the house before taking the bottle of water he offered. The final mate marking had become somewhat of a sore subject in the house. "Yea although I am starting to think it will never happen," she grumbled. Every time she or anyone else mentioned it, Laxus would shut down and quickly steer he conversation in a different direction. When she'd question him, he'd tell her they weren't ready yet. She was beginning to think he was changing his mind, but her heart always argued he was just scared.
Capricorn studied the angry expression that pulled on the woman's face and glanced up momentarily at the house. She held his key so he could feel her confusion and dare he say hurt? "Lucy, I know as your spirit it may be none of my business," he started as he reached up to pull his glasses off. "But as your friend, you know I am here to listen. Why do you think it will never happen?"
Lucy was mid-swallow when she glanced over at the goat and suddenly found herself choking on the water. The clear fluid had slipped down the wrong pipe in her shock at seeing him without his glasses. It was not that he had crossed eyes or that they glowed a demonic red. He actually had beautiful eyes, rectangular pupils set against a gorgeous shade of amber. It was just a very rare thing for him to remove them and completely unexpected. She saw worry flicker in his eyes and held up a hand as she sucked in the precious oxygen her body had just been deprived of in her coughing fit. Leave it to her to drown herself. "I'm ok, just swallowed wrong," she finally croaked out. "I just…he shuts down every time I try to bring it up. He's become the master of topic changes and well…I'm scared he's changing his mind."
The goat's mouth pursed at her words. He could understand her reasoning but he just could not bring himself to believe that was the case. He didn't know the slayer overly well, only spending time with the man when he accompanied them on the morning run or during training. They'd probably only talked a handful of times. But Capricorn found himself actually liking the man. While quiet and often hard to read, he seemed to have a good head on his shoulders. Most importantly the slayer obviously cared deeply for the woman in front of him. He could only reason that Laxus had his own reasons for delaying things. "Perhaps you are asking the wrong questions?"
"The skies are all quiet and I can't make a sound."
Lucy blinked as she stared up at him. Wrong questions? She'd tried every way she could think of, including sex, to get Laxus to open up to her. Nothing worked. It was always escape or evasion and quite frankly she was getting tired of it. She thought they'd gotten through all of their issues but now they were back to arguing over small stuff just because the tension was getting out of hand. There was always THAT elephant in the room. "I don't know Capricorn," she sighed. Her frustration evident. "I've attempted to bring it up a million and one ways but it's always the same. It hurts because I want him to talk to me. All he has to do is give me a reason, it's all I ask."
The spirit could not help but laugh at the pout that took up residence on his master's lips. He'd seen that look often when she was a child. He'd seen the same look often on her mother. They both shared the same personality. They both came in like storms yet loved fiercely, with a pension for forgiveness that surely only an angel would possess. "Lucy I get that you want answers but have you ever heard the expression 'you get more bees with honey'?" He saw her open her mouth and placed a hand on her shoulder to quiet her. "I know you are trying but you are very much Lady Layla's daughter. When you set your eyes on something, you become…tenacious. It isn't always a bad thing but there are times when you simply cannot come in like a wrecking ball. A gentler approach is sometimes required, take the long way to get there."
She stared up at him, contemplating on slapping the goat. Was he calling her impatient and destructive? She wasn't Natsu for crying out loud. Ok, perhaps she wasn't the most subtle of people when she wanted information but she hadn't resorted to violence…yet. "I have been trying to be nice about it," she practically whined and looked up at the house to find the blonde male looking out the kitchen window. With a glance at the spirit next to her, she gestured towards the house with a flick of her wrist. "Maybe you should try talking some sense into him."
Capricorn glanced up and gave a bow of his head to the confused looking slayer before turning to give the woman a cheeky grin. "Negative. That would not do. I have no wish to get in the middle of the two of you fighting," he chuckled before settling into a serious tone. "I am sure when he is ready he will talk to you. Have you considered that with all of the changes, perhaps he has thoughts of his own to straighten out?"
Lucy sighed and hung her head. "Yes I have," she mumbled. She knew he had a lot on his mind. While he had the world's best poker face, she'd come to know him. His eyes always gave him away. It was never anything telltale for those who didn't know him, just subtle little changes in color or clarity that she'd come to recognize. And being so close to completing the mating process, she could almost feel the shifts in his mood. "The problem is I think he believes he's shielding me from something but he isn't. He doesn't have to. I just want him to share his burdens with me, I'm his mate for Mavis' sake. Not some weak fledgling who will break under pressure."
The spirit sighed and shook his head. He could hear the uncertainty in her voice. He'd come to know her insecurities, as invalid as they were. "Lucy, I can assure you that Laxus-sama does not see you as weak or incapable. Quite the opposite actually." He cast another quick glance up at the house before leveling his gaze back on her. "He looks at you the way your father looked at your mother; with pride, adoration and a deep sense of love. And like your mother and father, you two were incredibly well matched. You're both strong of will and dedicated to all that you do. But Lucy, all relationships have rough spots. You will not always be on the same page. Lady Layla and Sir Jude certainly had their own struggles but at the end of the day, they loved each other and simply made it work. You and Laxus-sama will too. They would be proud of your choice, your mother would have truly liked him."
The celestial mage reached up to wipe at her burning eyes. Damn him for making her tear up but his words struck deep. So many times she found herself saddened by the thought that she could not properly introduce Laxus to her parents. It was the approval every girl wanted, to have her parents be happy for her. "Thank you Capricorn," she sniffled before throwing her arms around his waist to hug him. She felt him stiffen a moment before his arms wrapped around her, a hand coming up to stroke her hair. It was reminiscent of what her mother would do when she was a child and upset over something trivial. "I needed that and I am so lucky that mom made a contract with you for me."
Capricorn smiled, amazed at how easily she could warm a heart. When he and Layla had made that contract oh so long ago, he never once hesitated. He had only prayed that her future generations would be as kind as she had been. Lucy had proven to be all of that and more. "I am the one who should be thanking you," he said as he cleared his throat and pulled back a little. "You and Loke saved me. He returned me so that I could serve where I should be. I am proud to have you as the owner of my key." Giving her a soft smile, he pulled back from her embrace and slipped his glasses back on. "Now if you will excuse me, I will bid you goodbye for now."
She smiled and reached up to swipe at her damp cheeks. She was so incredibly lucky to have her spirits. They all had a way of keeping her on the straight path, making her want to be better than she was. "Yes, I must get a shower." She reached down and grabbed her towel. "I will see you tomorrow Capricorn, thank you for training me." She watched him bow deep, bending at the waist before disappearing in a flash of light. With a sigh, she plastered a forced smile on her face and went in to shower.
"And I just wait for you"
Laxus glanced up from the book he was reading when he heard the bathroom door open. He had thought to join her for a morning shower when she'd come in, but he knew better once he caught sight of her face. She didn't say a word but he could smell the salt on her skin that had nothing to do with sweat, could see the red rimming her usually bright eyes. He knew she and her spirit had talked, had overheard part of their conversation. While glad for the spirit's vote of confidence in not only him but their relationship, it hurt to know she doubted his faith in her. It's your own fault. She needs to know.
He grimaced at the inner voice. It was right but how did he go about telling her he was afraid? She seemed to fear nothing, as small as she was. Yet here he was, big bad dragon slayer and he was scared shitless when it came to taking that final step. Not because he doubted them or the fact that he was completely lost to her, his inner dragon was demanding daily that he suck it up and complete the process. She was his mate. He'd gladly follow her to the depths of hell. It was the thought of what could happen afterwards that stayed him. It was the fact that they now knew someone had put them on a timeline.
Porlyusica confirmed his suspicions when not one, but three mates turned up pregnant at the same time. Yukino had thrown her hat in when Lisanna and Levy announced their pregnancy. Someone had broken into their homes, switched their birth control pills out for sugar pills. The mating process had naturally been designed so that once it was complete, the female would be ensured to conceive. She was protected up until the final marking, without the safe guards of contraceptives they were at the mercy of nature's course. Call it selfish, he just did not want to risk throwing his own mate into that mix. January was going to be a shit storm, he didn't want her incapacitated or at risk because she too was pregnant.
"Figured you'd be downstairs with Bicks and Ever."
The sound of her voice pulled him from his thoughts and a smile pulled at his lips as his eyes snapped to her. Her hair, now a deep honey blonde, hung loose and wet around her shoulders. The black towel she had wrapped around her clung to the soft curves underneath, stopping just below the curve of her ass. Evidence of her daily workout regimen were starting to show in her legs and arms, the toned muscles starting to reveal hints of definition. She was beautiful always but how the hell did she manage to get sexier on a daily basis? His cock stirred in his pants and he sighed. "Nah, I wanted to spend some quiet time with you before Gajeel and Levy get here. But I did hear from Rogue. Freed got the runes set up there too and left early this morning. He should be back by this afternoon."
He frowned when she just gave a nod and silently began pulling her clothes out for the day. His eyes followed her every movement. A sense of disappointment settled in when she pulled the maroon long sleeved tunic t-shirt on, covering the black lace bra and matching thong she'd chosen. He stood when she reached for the black leggings and halted her movements when he moved up behind her. Her eyes met his in the reflection of the dresser mirror. "When I said quiet time, I didn't mean literal silence Static." He placed his hands on her shoulders and spun her around to face him.
"I was getting dressed Laxus."
He audibly sighed at her frustrated tone and pulled her against him, his arms wrapping around her as he pressed his lips to the top of her head. Strawberries and cream with a subtle undertone of a thunderstorm. That's what forever smells like. He pulled back a little and brought a hand up to brush her damp hair back from her face. "Well you can take a break." He smirked when she gave him a roll of her eyes, his arms tightening around her when she tried to pull away. His fingers caught her chin and he could feel the stubborn set of her jaw as he lowered his head to hers. Her breath paused when he brushed his lips over hers but she didn't respond. He nipped at her bottom lip, running his tongue over the surface of the plump flesh and still nothing. "Lucy," He sighed before he pulled back and released her.
"Laxus we have company coming over and I'm…" She paused and he could see her struggling with her own anger, frustration and what seemed to be regret. "I'm sorry but I'm just not in the mood to argue and kissing or sex isn't going to smooth things over."
"I'm calling for a savior to show me where to start."
He raked his hands through his hair and opened his mouth to give a smart ass comment back but shut it. She was right. The past two weeks had been nothing but arguing or sex. If they talked, it ended in an argument. When they fought, it ended up in sex. There was only so much make up sex that can be had before you have to face the issues at hand. And it was all on him. His hesitance at completing the process and lack of an explanation was the culprit. "We'll talk tonight. About everything. Ok?"
"Everything?"
The skepticism in her voice hurt but he swallowed it along with his ego. His own pride had been doing a lot of the driving lately and it wasn't getting either of them anywhere good. "Yea. Everything." As if his words had been some secret password, unlocking an invisible door, he briefly caught the sight of her lips turning up into a smile before she launched herself up at him. Unprepared, he was barely able to wrap his arms around her as he stumbled back and fell on the bed. The air in his lungs rushed out in a groan and he heard her giggle as she shifted to straddle him.
"Thank you Spark Plug."
The smile on her face was worth the sudden ache in his back and the fact that she was sitting on his stomach. It made him sick to know it's been his own fear that had stolen it. He wanted to shield her from all of this crap, snap his fingers and make it disappear. He wished he could go back in time and finish Ivan off when he'd had the chance. It wasn't the Fairy Tail way to take a life. And while it wasn't confirmed that he was involved, he would've snuffed him out like a candle had he known what he stood to lose now without a single regret. Lucy, their life together, the others…they all meant too much to him. He had a family now and the thought of losing any of it gave way to a level of fear that was so foreign to him. "I love you Lucy and I really do believe in you. Please never forget or doubt that."
She brought a hand up to brush her fingers over his forehead and his eyes drifted closed with a sigh as she traced the length of his scar. Not one person he'd ever been with before her had paid any mind to it. Either too afraid or too repulsed by the unsightly blemish. For so long, he'd been self-conscious of the physical defect so it had been a blessing. But in true Lucy fashion, she never let him forget its existence and that she loved it along with all of his other defects. The smile that adorned her lips and the look of adoration in her eyes when she did touch it never failed to amaze him. She cupped his cheek and he nuzzled into her hand with a purr. Why had he spent so many years without her when she'd been right there? He felt her shift and he opened his eyes to find her beautiful face just inches from his own.
"I love you too Laxus and I won't forget. But I need you to remember you aren't alone anymore." Her voice was a little more than a whisper and she paused to brush her lips against his. "I am with you in all things and I am strong enough to help you carry it, never ever forget that."
Any reply he had died as her lips slanted over his and her tongue stole into his mouth. Candy and sin. It was a flavor he'd never forget, it's what pulled him in and never failed to do so time and time again. His hands found her back as he pulled her down. He adored the way her body felt flush against his, the contrast of her soft curves and his hard-lined contours. Her tongue fought for dominance over his and when she moaned, he gave into temptation. He rolled them over, trapping her beneath him. He could feel the heat emanating from the apex of her thighs through his jeans as he settled between her legs. The scent of her arousal beckoned him. "God I need you," he growled as he broke the kiss to trail his lips down to the column of her throat.
Her fingers wound themselves in his hair and her throat vibrated against his lips with her moan. His fingers ghosted up her sides before he gripped her arms and forced them over her head. Pinning them to the bed with one hand, he used the other to pull at the material of her shirt. His lips desired more of her flesh. His teeth ached to sink into her as her heartbeat echoed in his ears. Her skin tasted like she smelled, his tongue lapping at the creamy flesh where her shoulder and neck met. The sounds of soft mewls that spilled from her lips sounded like an angels chorus to his ears. She bucked beneath him as he rolled his hips into her. He could feel the shift within himself as his teeth nipped at her skin.
A knock at the door quickly pulled his attention and he could not stop the growl that slipped out. He was getting tired of the constant interruptions. "Um…guys…Levy, Gajeel and Cobra are here."
He groaned in frustration at the hesitance in Ever's voice. It wasn't really her fault. Lucy had warned him of their impending arrival and lack of time. He released the blonde's hands and pushed himself up, offering her a hand. "Sorry about that," he mumbled as he pulled her to her feet. She smiled and rose up on her tip toes. He smirked when her fingers curled into his black button up shirt. His hands found her ass and pulled her against him as she brushed her lips against his.
"It's ok, we'll have plenty of time later tonight."
A grin pulled at his lips as he gave her ass a squeeze and nipped at her bottom lip. "Yea, after we talk." He brushed his nose against hers and pressed another chaste kiss to her lips before releasing her. He grabbed her black leather riding boots from beside the dresser and set them on the end of the bed. "I'll head down, hurry up and meet me down there?"
She smiled and gave a nod. "Yes sir. I'll be down in just a few."
"And all who still remain are whispering in the dark."
He gave her a wink and slipped out of the room to head down stairs. He found the trio that had arrived sitting in the living room, Ever serving tea while Bickslow was playing with his totem babies. While he'd much rather be upstairs with his blonde bombshell of a mate, he had to admit it was actually comforting to have his house full of laughter and family. He had the utmost respect and love for not just those of his team and guild, but his tatsu as well. He still wasn't sure he deserved it, but damned if he'd let any of it go without a fight to the death.
"Hey Laxus! Where's Lu?" He returned the smile the blunette woman gave him as he moved to take a seat in one of the chairs. "She'll be down…"
"She's fixing herself after Light Bulb here tried pawing her clothes off."
He narrowed his eyes at the poison dragon slayer. "Don't go getting jealous Acid Breath," he mumbled before giving the maroon haired man a wicked grin.
"When aren't they trying to rip each other's clothes off?" Bickslow interjected with a shrug. "Who needs porn when you live here?"
The iron dragon slayer groaned and stuck his fingers in his ears. "Seriously Bicks? I don't really want to hear this shit."
"Yea well at least you don't have to actually LISTEN to it. 'Oh fuck me Laxus! Fuck Lucy you're so wet!'" Ever shivered as she walked back into the room.
Laxus felt his jaw drop as he glared at the laughing people in the room. He didn't want his sex life broadcasted to the whole guild. He was going to kill them all before they had a chance to leave. "Did you all forget I know where you sleep?" He growled.
"Come on Spark Plug, they're just jealous they don't rock as hard as we do in bed."
He looked up to find Lucy smirking as she strolled across the living room. Her hair dry and hanging loose the way he liked, her black leggings clinging to the contours of her legs with the boots he'd chosen completing her style. He sat back as she crawled into his lap and kissed his cheek.
"Didn't you mean fuck? Fuck as hard as you do in bed?"
Laxus opened his mouth to retort the smart ass Seith Mage but Lucy quieted him with a poke to his side. She gave him a wiggle of her brows before her smile faded to a serious, thin line. "Nope. It's definitely rock. It's like Guns N' Roses and AC/DC meets Iron Maiden when this guy gets naked and when he moves…yea a mosh pit at a Killswitch Engage festival can't hold a candle. I'm pretty sure even you'd get wet Bixy."
It was official. He was head over heels in love with her smart ass mouth and quick witted brain. Not that he wasn't before but she'd just laid waste to three of the strongest men he knew and left two women utterly speechless. If it weren't for the company in the room, he'd rip her clothes off and lay waste to her. The lyrics of Sweet Child of Mine and You Shook Me All Night Long drifted into his head and he was sure both songs were written specifically for her. Her smile reminded him of everything good, her face never failed to take him somewhere special and her hair was indeed a warm safe place. "She's one of a kind and she's mine all mine," he smirked as he pulled her to him to press his lips to hers.
"Um alrighty then and on that note," Levy's voice broke in and he chuckled against the blonde's lips before she pulled back. "Lu and Ever, wanna go for a walk? I've been cooped up inside for a while and could use the fresh air."
The brunette stood up and shook her head as if to rid herself of disturbing mental images. "No thanks Levy. I have some stuff to tend to…Lady stuff being Elfman gets back tonight."
The celestial mage gave a shrug and glanced out the window before giving him a smile. "Do you mind? Gives you guys time to bullshit."
Laxus pursed his lips and glanced out the window. The sky was overcast but he couldn't yet smell the storm it would eventually bring. He wasn't sure he wanted them outside alone but then he knew they could use the bonding time. "That's fine but you two are NOT to go far. I'm serious. Stay within earshot of the house."
She gave him a roll of her eyes and kissed his cheek. "Yes Father. I'll be sure to check in every five minutes and won't get my dress too dirty."
He smirked at her insolence and couldn't resist smacking her ass when she stood up. She narrowed her eyes at him as her palm rubbed the spot his hand had connected with but he could definitely see the desire that flashed in her eyes. "Yea yea because dirtying your dress is my job." He wiggled his brows and she rewarded him with a laugh.
"Oh god will you two just go already before I puke?"
He laughed when his mate shot the poison dragon slayer the middle finger and mumbled a quick "Love you too Erik" before she pulled the blunette out the door.
"And we just wait for a sign"
Lucy pulled her black sweater tighter and glanced at the blunette walking beside her. She was amazed by the glow that radiated from the woman. Pregnancy suited Levy, very well. As did the oversized cream colored sweater and orange leggings that she wore. The celestial mage could not help being just a tad jealous. It was like everyone was pregnant but her. While she wasn't sure she and Laxus were ready, even though they had yet to do the final marking, she felt a little left out.
"Worse thing about this is that it's going so fast. I'm only 6 weeks along realistically but already I'm growing out of my clothes and I feel fat."
Ok, so maybe she wasn't that jealous. Thank Mavis for Porlyusica creating the charm she now wore that would prevent it. She laughed at Levy's words and reached over to place a hand on the woman's shoulders as they walked. "You're not fat Levy. You've got a super kid growing in there." It was the truth. They'd all been shocked when Porlyusica gave them the news. Apparently the gestational period was a whopping twelve weeks, a whole two weeks longer than that of an actual dragon. The hard part being they're humans, not dragons so the rapid development put added strain on the body.
"Yes I know and there is a bright side to this," Levy sighed.
The blonde paused and bent to pick up a leaf in their path, the bright yellow fading into russet orange bringing a smile to her face. Fall was in full swing and feast day was just a couple of weeks away. "What is that?" She stood back up and a chuckle slipped from her lips. Levy was standing there, pushing up her own slowly expanding bust up towards the low, round neckline of her sweater.
"I'm finally growing boobies!"
Their laughter echoed through the trees as they continued along the path. They'd gone a little further than the guys had wanted them to but the house had come into view. The walk wasn't nearly as long as Lucy wanted, she was enjoying the personal time and being able to vent frustrations with her best friend. Levy was able to give her valuable insight into having a slayer for a mate, reasoning that fear could possibly be the driving force behind Laxus' avoidance of the final mate marking. She, herself had considered it but had always pushed it off because it was him. In her eyes, he seemed to fear nothing while she was constantly fighting to keep her own fears locked away.
"Lev I seriously doubt Gajeel was complaining about your chest before this," she chuckled.
"No but he's definitely complaining now. They're just too tender." The blunette whined.
"Oh I can imagine," Lucy offered sympathetically as she glanced down at the ground. A strong wind blew in, whipping her hair into her face. The air had a chill to it and she caught the scent rain on the horizon. It was a scent she had come to find comfort in but a glance up at the sky put her on edge. Even through the thinning canopy of the trees, she could see the storm clouds beginning to roll in. It would not be long before that very sky would open up, releasing the fury in a typical fall storm. She knew they needed to hurry and get back to the house.
"Levy we should probably pick…" She paused mid-sentence when she looked over to find her side vacant. Halting her step, she spun around to find the trail behind her deserted and a clap of thunder sounded around her. Oh gods no, not this. Her stomach dropped with a sense of dread, her long forgotten dream coming back in vivid remembrance. "Levy? This isn't funny." She called out, rising panic evident in her voice as she reached for her keys. Her fingers met with air and she glanced down to find not only the key ring gone but the sleeve that housed her whip was empty as well.
"Lose something Bimbo?"
The familiar feminine voice sent a chill down her spine. Slowly, she turned and felt the color drain from her face as her eyes came to rest on a cloaked figure. She's seen her before and had too often prayed that she'd never see the woman again. Lucy didn't need the hood lowered to know it shielded thick raven locks and eyes darker than the night sky. Her blood ran cold at the sight of her celestial keys dangling from a single outstretched arm. "Who are you and how did you get those?" She demanded, surprised that her voice sounded stronger than she felt.
"So this is my once upon at time."
The woman tsked before her full lips pulled up into a malicious grin. "I would've thought you'd be more worried about your friend than a set of stupid keys."
Lucy's jaw clenched in anger. She knew that without being fully mated, her use of lightning was limited and the earlier training had left her pretty drained. She'd only get one shot and it had to count. "I'm plenty concerned," she growled as she channeled her magic. Sparks ignited over her fingers and while it wasn't an impressive show, it was enough to make the woman gasp in what seemed to be surprise or shock. "Now how about you give me back my friend AND my keys."
"Give her back?" The woman laughed, the sound hollow and fake. She gestured further behind the blonde woman. "I think she's got other plans."
The celestial mage spun and the sparks died as her eyes widened in shock and panic. There before her, only twenty feet away, stood Levy with expressionless eyes and an unearthly grin. She held a blade to her own throat and the giggle that fell from her lips sent ripples of fear through Lucy's veins. "Levy don't…" she whispered, desperation clinging to her words. She should have never brought her out here. They shouldn't have left the safety of the house.
"Oh no Levy, please do."
No sooner did the mystery woman's words reach her ears, Lucy watched in horror as the blunette pulled the blade across her flesh. "LEVY!" A blood curdling scream ripped from the blonde's lips as she took off towards her friend's collapsing body. She dropped to her knees and skidded to a stop, her heart pounding in her ears and her hands shaking. This was her fault. She was supposed to protect her and she failed. Blood. So much blood. She reached out to press her hands to the gaping wound on her friend's neck and confusion pulled at her brows as her hands passed right through the woman's body. An illusion. It's not real. But where…
"You're all way too easy Bimbo."
Lucy flinched at the voice beside her ear. Fear was seizing up her muscles but she knew she had to press through. If this was an illusion, she had to stop them from taking her friend. She had to protect at all cost, it was her duty. She took a deep breath and turned, her eyes widening as blinding hot pain ripped through her chest and shoulder. As if dazed, she looked down to see the iron blade that was buried just below her right shoulder. Thunder sounded directly behind her but it didn't seem to faze her. Blood. Despite the dark color of her sweater, she could see the wetness spreading and knew it was her own blood. She struggled to breath, her chest feeling like a ten ton elephant was parked there. The fluid she felt filling her throat only added to her sense of fear.
"FUCK! NO NO THAT'S NOT BUNNY!"
A gargled scream ripped from her throat as the blade was removed and her knees gave out. Through blurry vision, she struggled to find the source of the voice. It wasn't the blood coated hand that she saw, but the shock, horror and regret that dimmed his familiar crimson eyes. She knew it wasn't his fault. By the reaction, she knew he'd been pulled in by the same illusions that had tricked her. "Gaj…" Her voice cut out as a fit of coughing set it. She didn't have to look, she could taste the metal in her mouth. Darkness tunneled her vision and shouts erupted around her, an eerie chill creeping up from her extremities. Warm hands touched her face, tilting it up and she felt a small sense of relief when her eyes met the stormy blue eyes she'd been searching for. "Love you." She saw his lips move but no sound reached her ears before the darkness closed in around her, swallowing her and the fear of death that had gripped her just seconds before.
"So this is my star-crossed wasteland."
Gajeel watched Bickslow head upstairs before he turned his attention back to the Lightning dragon slayer. The four of them had laughed and cut up, discussed random crap including Kinana working at the guild for Mira while she was off with Freed and Wendy staying with Erza, Jellal and the exceeds. It was time to get down to business, before the women returned preferably. He'd been watching their Alphas for the last couple of weeks. He knew something was afoot, which was his whole reason for coming over. The two had become more and more agitated over the course of weeks. They seemed to be losing focus on each other. It was only spreading throughout the rest of the family unit, including his own home. Although, he blamed the majority of that on the ever changing moods of his pregnant mate. She changed moods faster than the Ice Princess stripped. "So Lightning Rod, spill the beans."
The blonde looked at him in confusion. "Spill the beans? What the fuck are you talking about?"
The iron dragon slayer glanced over at Erik who held up his hands as if to say "Leave me the fuck out of it." His eyes rolled and he shook his head. Of course the poison brained idiot would back the hell out. The man had been all gung ho about talking to Laxus and now he was bowing out. He had to question what exactly Acid Breath was picking up that he would suddenly renege. "I mean spill on what the deal is with you and Bunny. You two have been chomping at the bit to rip each other's throats out for weeks. Today's the first day I think I've actually seen her smile since Team Sabre went home and that's been a month now."
"Just some stuff between her and I," The lightning dragon slayer muttered. "We'll fix it so no need to butt in."
Gajeel heard a chuckle and glanced over to see an amused expression adorning Erik's face. Not really surprising, the guy always had that cocky ass grin. It was rather annoying given the guy was always on the inside of a joke, even if it wasn't meant for him. Little mind reading fucker.
"I assure you I don't read minds but I can hear thoughts," the poison slayer smirked. "But Light Bulb here seems to think that his hesitation to complete the mating process doesn't concern us. She's become a Vulcan sized bitch and you've become a mountain of an asshole. Your shit is spreading to the rest of us Alpha so how about you man the fuck up and just do it already? Or at least let Blondie in on your plan here."
Gajeel knew he, himself, was a blunt prick. He didn't sugar coat anything. For anyone. He didn't see the need for it. Erik and he found common ground in that. But even he knew you sometimes had to utilize a sense of decorum. The poison dragon slayer just came in like a wrecking ball with no couth. "Laxus, what shit for brains is trying to say is the connection between you and Bunny is supposed to be a guide. You guys are the head of the family so when you two are at odds, the rest of us feel it. So how about you say what's on your mind and maybe we can help you sort the crap out? Why haven't you completed the process with her?"
The older slayer sighed, his shoulders slumping. "She fucking scares me."
The iron dragon slayer blinked. "Get the fuck out. You almost kill Erik here and you're afraid of a bunny?" He heard the poison slayer laugh and he turned to give him a smirk.
"No you asshole morons. I have been putting it off because I am scared shitless of what will happen once it's done," Laxus cut in. "We've got three pregnant women to protect already. What the fuck will happen if she ends up pregnant too? I have this sinking feeling that shit is fixing to get way too real and I…"
"The wolves are ascending, the vultures are near."
Gajeel watched him pause and completely got it. She was the Alpha Female, his mate. He needed her battle ready so that he did not have to worry about not being at his side. "Lightning Rod what you need to realize here is that her survival, fuck our survival depends on you two being fully mated. Ok so she can already use some of your magic. Pregnant or not, Bunny will be a fucking power house once you're done. Like Erik said, Alpha up brother. The tatsu depends…" His words died off as he reached for his head.
It suddenly felt like an explosion went off inside and a sick feeling settled into his stomach. He felt the growl rise up in his chest as his head whipped towards the door. Something wasn't right. Fuck…I can't feel her. Without a word he jumped up from the couch and all but ripped the back door off its hinges as he opened it. He sniffed at the air and growled when he realized he couldn't feel her. His eyes scanned furiously. "SHRIMP! BUNNY!" He could hear his voice echoing but nothing came back in response.
"Gajeel what the fuck is wrong?"
He frantically turned to find Laxus and Erik staring at him as if he'd lost his mind. He could feel his inner dragon begging to be released. Anxiety clawed at his insides and a fear he'd never known gripped his chest. "They aren't answering and I can't feel Levy. A fucking bomb went off in my head and now I can't fucking sense or smell her!"
"I can't hear them either. It's just like…"
Gajeel didn't need the poison dragon slayer to finish his sentence. They've come. Again but this time it was for his mate and his sister. With a roar, he turned and sped off towards the direction he'd seen them go in. Someone was going to die. His blood ran cold, his heart pounding in his ears as he moved as fast as his feet would carry him. His nose twitched as he sniffed at the scentless air. There was nothing. He came around the curve in the path and the world seemed to stop, his feet skidding in the dirt.
His eyes widened and he felt his stomach drop. Levy was on the ground. She was still, he couldn't make out the rise and fall of her chest. Above her, straddling her petite frame was a hooded figure. A woman judging by the feminine hands that were raised, in their grasp was a dagger poised and ready to be plunged. His lips curled as deep, threatening growl vibrated up from the depths of his stomach. He only saw red as he channeled his magic, his arm shooting out. Fight fire with fire fuck face! His arm transformed into a sword, the blade plunging into the woman as she turned. No…
The breath in his lungs came out in a rush as the vision faded and his eyes met familiar mocha colored ones. He felt like the blade had pierced his own heart, the shock and fear on her face twisting it. There was no way. She hadn't been there. It had been someone else. He was so sure of it. The scent of strawberries, cream and blood reached his nose. "FUCK! NO NO THAT'S NOT BUNNY!" It couldn't be her. He'd never hurt her, no more than he could hurt Shrimp.
In his numbness, he shut down his magic. The scream that ripped from the blonde woman's throat brought bile into his throat. No no no I didn't just do that. It just can't be her. I was protecting Shrimp. The sound of his name falling from her lips made it too real. Only she and Levy called him Gaj. If that's Bunny…where is Shrimp?
"WHAT...THE FUCK... HAVE YOU DONE?"
He didn't have time to respond to Laxus before electricity exploded against him. The ground disappeared beneath his feet and for a split second, he prayed for death. He deserved it and so much worse. Bunny was bleeding and his mate was gone. The wind was knocked from him as his back met unforgiving wood, the sound of the tree cracking with the force. A grunt escaped his mouth as he slid down but felt no pain. He was numb.
"And I'm still here waiting for you to reappear."
Laxus felt the bottom drop out from under him. This was his fear realized. Nausea threatened to steal his breath. He took off after Gajeel, his heart pounding in his ears. The same chant played over and over in his head. Please Mavis let this not be real. He felt like he was running in quick sand as he round the curve in the path and his breath rushed out of his lungs. He saw the cloaked figure kneeling over Levy's still body, a dagger raised. But something was off. It seemed to flicker as if he were blinking. One second it was the cloaked person and the blunette, the next it was Lucy kneeling alone.
It seemed like time slowed as he watched Gajeel's arm shoot forward, the skin transforming to metal. He closed his good eye and the flickering stopped. Without thought, he channeled his magic and transported himself. He overshot and spun in time to find the flickering had stopped. He saw the look of horror on Gajeel's face and looked down to see the end of what looked like a sword protruding out of Lucy's back. Her golden locks were already turning red with blood. Wake up Laxus god damn it! WAKE THE FUCK UP!
"FUCK! NO NO THAT'S NOT BUNNY!"
The iron dragon slayer's words echoed the thought in his head. Her scream chilled him to the core as the blade retracted, bringing him to his knees beside her. He heard her try to call out to Gajeel before she began coughing, blood spilling out onto her chin. Blinding rage, heart break, fear…it all filtered through him at break neck speed. "WHAT...THE FUCK... HAVE YOU DONE?" He roared as he turned his head to glare at the iron dragon slayer. Without hesitation, his arm shot out, lightning crackling over the surface of his skin before it shot out. It was only a small sense of satisfaction when he watched the raven haired slayer fly backwards into a tree.
"Laxus…I didn't mean…FUCK! I DIDN'T SEE HER!" Gajeel moaned as he tried pushing himself up from the ground.
"We all saw it! I couldn't hear shit until it was too late." Erik all but whispered, pain evident in his voice.
"PRINCESS! WHAT THE FUCK HAPPENED HERE?"
The lightning dragon slayer ignored the Lion, shoving the man back when he knelt beside him and tried to reach for the celestial wizard. Tears pooled in his eyes as he hesitantly reached for her, his hands trembling in fear, in pent up anger. Why hadn't she used her keys? They were still on the hook on her side. Blood…just like the dream. Her skin already felt so cold as he grasped her face and tilted it up to look at him. Her usual bright eyes seemed glazed over and the moment his name fell from her lips, he felt his heart snap. "No no no Static…LUCY!" Her body fell limp against him and he patted her face. "Come on baby, open your eyes. You can't sleep right now!" He could hear his own desperation in his voice as he slid his arm under her legs.
He turned to find them all staring at him as if in shock. His eyes landed on Gajeel and he had to push down the uncontrollable urge to kill him. He'd seen the illusion. He knew the man was not to blame but it didn't lessen the pain any. He needed to pull it together. For them, for her, for Levy. "I'm taking her to Porlyusica. Erik, help Gajeel track them. They must have Levy. Loke…go to the house and get Bicks and Ever." He didn't wait for a response before he channeled his magic and pulled her tighter before he was off.
The gurgling in her throat pulled his attention when he landed in front of the familiar tree home. Her lips were turning an eerie shade of blue. "Fuck!" She wasn't breathing. With his heart in his throat, he ran for the door and said a silent pray of thanks when it opened. The pink haired woman's sneer faded as her eyes went wide and she stepped aside to let him in. "An illusion…Attacked…Gajeel's iron through her chest." His mind was tripping to find the words as he laid her down on the bed.
"Bickslow called me. Just move and let me work. Call the guild for Wendy."
He felt like he was on auto pilot as he backed away and felt his pocket for the communication Lacrima. Pulling it from his pocket, he paused as he caught sight of his trembling, blood coated hand wrapped around the device. Her blood. It was everywhere. He heard the old woman curse under her breath and looked over to see her cutting open Lucy's top. She reached for a sharp metal object and pressed it against her skin. "WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?" He snapped as he quickly moved and tried grabbing the thin blade from the woman.
"She's got a collapsed lung you ignorant fool! Stay out of my way and get Wendy here now before the child dies!"
The word "die" brought him back and he heard himself whimper as he looked down at his mate's ashen face. She couldn't die. He'd be left here, alone. He powered the lacrima in his hand and blinked back the tears that stung his eyes as Makarov's face came into view.
"Lax…What's wrong son?"
He heard a sickening gurgle and glanced over to see blood spraying from a tube that had been inserted into Lucy's chest. His world was begging to crumble, he could feel it. "JiJi…Have Jet bring Wendy to Porly's place and fast." He saw his grandfather's eyes widen but the old man nodded the same.
"She's on her way."
"And we just wait for a sign."
He dropped the Lacrima on the bedside table and tried to pull himself together as he watched the old woman work. Everything replayed in his head over and over again. Had he been just a second faster…Had he kept them at the house…Had he already marked her. This was his fault. His mate could die. Gajeel was missing a mate. They'd taken Levy. All of it fell on his shoulders and the weight was crushing him. "Lucy you can't leave me." His voice cracked as he looked down at the darkened spots on his shirt. He already knew the color. Red, like his hands. Then he felt it, a sadness that stole the breath from his chest and shooting pain through every fiber of his being.
"Crap! Oh no you don't…Laxus! I need you to shock her."
He looked up, confusion pulling his brow until his eyes came to rest on the still body on the bed. A growl emanated from his chest as he raced to the side of the bed. He moved the woman's hands from his mate's still chest. The feeling that came over him had no name, no way of describing it. He prayed for death, prayed for her to live, prayed that he'd wake up to find her breathing in the bed next to him. This was NOT how this was supposed to happen! Not this way!
"IDIOT! What are you waiting for? I said you need to shock her! We have to restart her heart!"
Panic seized him as the old woman shouted in his ear. He didn't register the pain it would usually bring. He was solely concentrating on channeling his magic into his hands. He flinched when the small body arched off of the bed as lightning rippled over her skin. He closed his eyes and tried to feel her heart but he knew by the feeling in his gut. He didn't wait for further instructions before he repeated the process. Nothing. A third try came up the same, nothing. No sound, no pulse. Just lifeless silence. "Come on you STUBBORN ASS, SMART-MOUTHED BITCHY WOMAN! YOU WON'T LEAVE ME LIKE THIS BLONDIE!" He growled as he charged again, channeling more power behind it.
He felt something rebound beneath his fingers and audibly whimpered when he felt the beating inside of her chest. He let go of the breath he'd been holding, his knees giving out beneath him as he sunk to the side of the bed. Unaware, his fingers found hers and he brought her hand to his face to press it to his cheek. "You better fight Blondie." He quietly sobbed as he kissed her wrist, her pulse faint but steady again beneath his lips. "I can't do this without you."
The door opened and he didn't need to look to know that Wendy had finally arrived. The fragrance of spring flowers and bubble gum mixed with the scent of Lucy's blood and Porlyusica before he heard the small girl gasp. He could feel her anguish from across the room and a pang of guilt set in. She hadn't been prepared for this. Hell, he was still trying to grasp it himself.
"Stop gawking child and help. She's lost a lot of blood and I can't heal this on my own." The old woman was trying to sound normal but he could hear the sadness in her voice.
A small gentle hand came to rest on his shoulder and he looked up to find tear filled golden brown eyes. A myriad of emotions flickered in their depths and an uncontrollable whimper escaped his lips. "Jet…Loke, take Big Brother and Charle outside please." Loke? He hadn't been aware of the spirit's arrival. He opened his mouth to speak but she gave a shake of her head, her pigtails swinging with the movement. "Please go and leave this to me. I promise I will take care of her but she needs you to be strong."
"So this is my once upon a time."
Erik crouched down and brushed his hands over the crushed pile of leaves, sighing when they seemed to disintegrate under his fingers. They were too brittle for the track to be recent. It did prove though that someone had been indeed coming and going. It had been too small to be and of their males and the females had been kept on a tight leash. At least until today. The thought passed quickly as the sound of trees crashing sounded to his left. His ears twitched and he pushed himself with a huff and sprinted off in the direction it came.
"Look man I get it! You're fucking pissed but could you be a little less noticeable in your tracking?" He snarled as he came up on a patch of woods, the trees decimated and leaving behind jagged stumps. He didn't need to listen to the raven haired slayer to know what he was feeling or thinking. He'd been exactly where the guy was now. It was a helpless, bottomless pit of anger and pain. Only he got that for Gajeel, his guilt, frustration and worry were tenfold from where his own had been.
"Why? I want those pansy ass motherfuckers to hear death calling them."
The poison dragon slayer grimaced as he watched the iron dragon slayer rip through another section of trees in his anger. It was a familiar scene. When he'd arrived at Sabretooth, he'd been beat the hell up and not because he'd been in huge fights. He'd beat himself up over and over again. As if he were dealing his own penance for the crime of leaving his mate unattended. The man he followed through the woods was doing the same.
They approached a clearing and Erik slowed, his eyes scanning the open field as he sniffed at the air. He could smell the decaying of foliage, the fall chill on the air, rain, a doe and a couple of squirrels. Not one trace of any humans but the thought hit him. When they'd come out of the house, not only was it silent but there'd been a complete lack of smell. It wasn't until Gajeel had broken the illusion that sound had come back. But even then, there had been no real scent. He'd have to speak to Jellal because that would indicate either a magic he wasn't familiar with or some sort of enchantment. Enchantments could possibly be tracked back to a source if it were purchased.
Either way, they were getting a little too far out from Magnolia now with no supplies and no one else had a clue as to where they were. He'd left his com-lacrima with Kinana and he was pretty sure Gajeel didn't have one. A glance up at the sky told of the storm blowing in. They needed to get back, regroup and come up with a plan. They weren't going to find Levy this way. They'd been tracking for over an hour now, zig-zagging their way blindly with not so much as a trail to follow. "We need to head back."
The iron dragon slayer turned on him unexpectedly, his large hands fisting in the lapels of his coat. "I am NOT going back without her. You wanna chicken out then be my fucking guest."
"So this is my star-crossed wasteland."
He watched the metal scales form over the Slayer's skin. The sound of iron scraping together sent a chill down his spine. The guy really did sound like a crumpled tin can when he moved. The poison slayer put up his hands as a show of reticence. He knew better than to go up against an enraged dragon, especially one dealing with the loss or injury of a mate and family. Erik was cocky, he didn't have a death wish. Laxus was enough thanks. "Look Tin Can, I am not saying give up but we need supplies. More people. You aren't going to find her like this, I know. I was there remember? I did this shit on my own for a damned week before I turned to anyone and look where it got me. Fucking nowhere. Had I done that from the start we just might have found her before…" He couldn't bring himself to finish, the last thing the guy needed was that reminder.
Cries of anguish, roars of anger, whimpers of despair, the endless echo of guilt. He could hear it all as they flashed in Gajeel's crimson orbs. They were all sounds he had become numb to but here, now, he could truly empathize with each one. For the first time in as long as he could remember, he felt his chest tighten for someone else other than Kinana. At first it shocked him, scared him even because it was unfamiliar territory but Laxus' words drifted in from memory. "Family is there to help, to protect… We need you brother, as much as you need us." This is what it meant, what having a family felt like. Somewhere along the way, he'd come to actually give a shit about these people. Well fuck me if I know how to deal with this shit.
"I can't go back," Gajeel mumbled dejectedly as he released his hold and stumbled back to fall to his knees.
The maroon haired slayer reached up and raked his fingers through the spikes of his hair, huffing in frustration at what wasn't being said. He was not fit for this. He didn't know how to do psychobabble that talked someone off of the edge of a cliff. Talking them into jumping was usually his forte. "Laxus isn't going to fucking kill you. What happened with Blondie was an accident. We all saw the same shit asshole so get the fuck over yourself and let's go back!" He heard the other slayer growl and he gave a roll of his eyes. "And you can stop that shit too. She's my family too Scrap Metal! The old hag and the kid will take care of her (he hoped, no he prayed). Now get the fuck off your ass and let's go back to get the others so they can help us look for YOUR MATE!"
"Fuck you Acid Breath."
Erik smirked and stuck his hand out, offering the grumbling slayer a hand up. He felt a couple of drops hit his head and chanced a glance up. "Come on Bro…we aren't going to be able to beat this crap back as it is."
"And you'll never know what it is you've done to me."
It was dark, so dark. And cold. She cried out into the abyss and heard her voice just echo in the void. No response came. She was alone. Lucy couldn't feel anything. No fear. No Pain. No spirits. No Laxus. She didn't know if she was dead or alive, numb or completely paralyzed. There was no concept of time or even space. It was like floating in nothingness and she had no clue how long she'd been here. This must be what hell is like.
Surely that isn't what you believe do you?
Suddenly a sense of warmth filtered in and she audibly gasped at the familiar voice. The smell of rain on the horizon filled her lungs and she found herself reaching for Marux's unseen presence. Please don't leave me here alone. Take me home, I need to get back. He needs me, they need me.
Demanding little thing you are.
She heard his deep chuckle, felt it vibrate as her fingers made contact with large warm scales. She felt him wrap himself protectively around her. His presence was welcomed, offering her a sense of comfort. I'm sorry but Marux, am I dead? Is that why I can feel you? She felt his breath feather over her hair before what she could only assume was his snout brushed over her the top of her head.
You were, yes. But, he brought you back.
She tried to force her eyes to open. She was confused and wanted to see the dragon she'd only seen in pictures. Wait what? I died but he brought me back? How? He didn't do any… Something slapped against her arm, cutting off her words and she growled.
Haha, you are so much like him and his mother Lucy. Or should I call you Static the way my son does? Be a good girl and let me respond to one question at a time.
She didn't need to see him to know the dragon was wearing a smirk. He may not be Laxus' birth father but the two were uncannily alike. She couldn't help but wonder if he knew. She wondered if all of her slayers were like their dragon parents. She gave a sigh and nodded her head in compliance. Yes Sir.
Hmmm a submissive Alpha, you could teach that boy a thing or two. But yes, your heart stopped. He prayed for death and I can understand. I know that feeling but I can assure you he did nothing stupid. He used our magic to bring you back. He shocked your heart into beating again. I wish I had been able to do the same.
Lucy felt tears well, her eyes burning. Her heart felt heavy. It hurt. She didn't want Laxus hurting for her and knew he was. The realization they were so close to being ripped apart made her chest ache. The sound of sadness and regret in the dragon's voice only added to it. Unconsciously, she nuzzled against the scales and felt the purr rumble beneath her. You loved her the way he loves me. I can only imagine how much it hurt to lose her the way you had. To watch her son grow and always be reminded of her.
Nonsense. I loved watching him grow, even from a distance. He has his mother's heart and her eyes. She lived on in him and I was able to see her when I saw him. Now he has us both, as he should have from the start.
Yea but you should have had more time. Laxus missed out on knowing his mother. You both lost out and that is heartbreaking.
You are like her you know, you have the same spirit and determination. You put up with and deal with him much like she handled me. You both have a way of calming the beast and making life worth living. I am more than proud with our choice in you. I wish she could see but you two are what she and I never had the chance to be. I don't regret that for a moment and neither should you.
Marux…She felt the sob catch in her throat as tears spilled down her cheeks. His words made her heart expand but it made her miss her slayer even more. She didn't deserve his kind words. I don't know what to say to that. I'm honored and thankful. But I also know we've screwed up…so bad. I let them take one of our own. They took Levy because I wasn't good enough or strong enough or smart enough. She felt another slap before what felt like his tail pulled her closer.
Bullshit Static. You can't see the future. You had no way of knowing and part of that does go back to my stubborn mule of a son. He needs to get off of his ass already and stop being a scared little shit. But even still, things will happen that are outside of your control. You have to learn from it, rise above it and use it against them. You are both smart, work together with the others and obliterate what stands in your way.
She sighed in defeat. He was right. They were being tested. No matter how bad it was, they needed to pull together. You're right.
Of course I am. But you need to get back before he tears that poor old lady's house apart.
Old Lad…Oh, you must mean Porlyusica. She felt him start to pull away and she reached out. Thank you Marux.
You are always welcome Lucy. Complete the process and take care of your family. The road ahead will not be easy and the two of you must stay strong for them. You are their Alpha and the stronger your bonds of love are, the stronger they will be.
"And we just wait for a sign."
"You really need to sit man. You're wearing us all out just watching you."
Laxus heard another growl sound off with his own at the high speed mage's words. He glanced over to see Loke doing pretty much the same as him, pacing. It had been over an hour now with no word. He'd tried going back in only to find the old hag had locked the door. He'd been tempted to send the Lion in but fear kept him from acting on the urge. He wanted to know what was going on but was too scared to hear the words he feared the most. There is nothing we can do.
Just thinking the words made the ache worse. He'd felt her slip away once and it was as if he was waiting for it to happen again. He's lost too much in life, most of which had always been his fault. But she was the one thing he couldn't lose. Life would mean nothing without her. He couldn't lead the tatsu without her at his side. He'd rather die. Not being fully mated would mean you'd live like that without her until death claimed your sorry ass. He groaned at the familiar voice in his head. It was right, reminding him of his own failure in this as well. Would Levy be gone and would his mate be covered in blood, fighting for her life, had he pushed his previous fears aside and marked her? There was no way of knowing now. But it won't happen again. If she pulls through, I will not hesitate again.
"Big Brother…she's awake and asking for you."
Wendy's voice brought him to a stop and his head snapped up. The young dragon slayer looked exhausted, her once pristine blue dress now soiled with blood. Lucy's blood. He saw Loke move to enter and he growled. "You will wait," he sneered as he moved to brush past the surprised Lion. "She's my mate and you will be given entrance only AFTER I've seen her." He heard the high speed mage chuckle before he shut the door behind him.
And now I will await death from my readers LOL. There was a lot going on...some fear, doubt, tears...a LOT of tears. So what will happen next? We shall see!
Thank you so much to everyone for all the reviews! You guys amaze and humble me, seriously. Huge hugs to you all!
A big thanks to the girls in the CFLA! You ladies rock and I love you all! To have such talented chicks supporting me...it's awesome XD
Kuro...wifey poo of the century, please don't kill me!
Please R & R!
Hugs!
Princess Nana
~Lieutenant of the Specialist Ops, ERO Division of the Crack Fiction Liberation Army~