Author's Note: Hey everyone! Well this is it, the turning point of the story and of course the chapter you all have been waiting for. I was at a crossroad when I was writing the plot. I had the choice, I felt, to turn this into several sequels, or make it one huge story. But as George R.R. Martin has taught me, do things in your own time. So screw it, we are gonna have ONE HUGE STORY! Of course there are many arcs, and sadly, this one is ending. But don't freak out friends! That means a new arc is going to begin and hopefully I will have that up either before or after Halloween!
Thank you again to those who have been reviewing, pming, and even taking a glance at my work! You guys are seriously amazing and I can't believe the numbers on the favorites/follows. Hell I still can't believe the number of reviews! Again, where are you all coming from?! Anyway, I love hearing from you guys, so please! Let me know what you think or feel or any feedback you wanna give! I am just excited to even talk to you all! Also, if I don't respond right away, it is because silly has been acting wonky with the review system-so sometimes I can't read your reviews until several days later :(. But I try to respond as best as I can, when I can. So don't fret! If you worry you I am not getting your reviews, the PM system always works and I can get those immediately! But I promise, I will write back your reviews as quickly as I can. Also, if you are leaving reviews and have no response, it is because it says you are a guest or you have turned off accepting PMs. But I promise! I do read your reviews...just wish I had a better way to reply to you all. Anyway, keep them coming alright? -sorry this was super long and longabout way of explaining heh.
Well without anything further and of course, I know you all are dying to read the chapter already; the song is "You Could Be Happy" by Snow Patrol. I really hope you will give this a listen as you read the chapter. It sums up all the feels perfectly as you get into the character's heads. So why not give it a listen as you read, and while you guys are at it, totally leave me a review so we can fangirl together! Enjoy guys!
Take A Glorious Bite Of The Whole World
~Chapter Thirty-Seven~
Needless to say, Lucy was put on bed rest for the remainder of the party. With the revelation known to the women, Lucy found herself stuck in a comfy, reclined chair where the stations were brought to her. The celestial mother found her body well massaged, her nailed polished, oiled skin, and her hair done so beautifully that it shimmered underneath the light. She was surrounded by her close friends that refused to leave her side. But the party didn't stop with the pampering as her friends made sure she had all her favorite craving foods such as different types of fires, peanut butter, chocolates, and spicy foods. But the best part was the presents and games that they provided. Mostly the gifts were toys for the little one since she had everything she could possibly be needing in the nursery, but she was beyond delighted by her friend's kindnesses.
Eventually it was just her and Parlyusica sitting and watching the party be cleaned up towards the end of it. Lucy had rested with her hands lightly caressing her enlarged belly. "Do you have anything you want to ask or know before you are pulled away again?"
The mother pondered for a moment or two, "How will I know I am labor?" This questioned earned a laugh from the doctor.
"Oh, you'll know. However, the clearest sign is your water breaking. There is also symptoms of cramping that you will experience. Think of it as having the worst period of your life. The cramps will get more painful and closer together the further into the labor you go. Since this is your first pregnancy, don't be surprised if the labor is over a day."
"...Will I die?"
"Far from it, but you may wish for death in the most intense of the labor. Do you wish for medicine to take away your pain during your labor process?"
"I just want Luna to arrive healthy and alive." The worried woman looked at her belly as her mind was trying to adapt to the honesty of the conversation.
"Then yes, you will want medicine." Parlyusica only laughed lightly, "But regardless, she will be fine; it is you that I worry about. Dragon births are difficult. Children are strong and the labor is intense from what I have seen firsthand. Although, this will be a first for me-bringing in a celestial and dragon hybrid I mean. But knowing that Brat, it won't be the last one." She chuckled at the blushing Celestial Princes.
"I-is it too late to back out?"
"Far too late I am afraid. But why would you? You are going to bring forth the next generation of both your houses. I know that Brat is more excited than anyone here to see your daughter. He will be a good father I can tell. He will, more likely than not, do anything to put your little girl's well being above all else. Surely even you can tell that?"
Lucy gave a nod, "Yeah, I know that more than anyone..."
"Well speaking of the devil. Look whose here to collect his wife." She nodded to the group of men coming to crash the clean up party.
"Luce! Did you have fun?" He came rushing over like a puppy who hadn't seen his person in the past hour-which probably felt like days. He sat down on the other side of her and gave a hug. "Man, you smell amazing. So you had a spa day, huh?" He was all grins with that good-nature charm. The expecting mother could only manage a small nod as she couldn't find it in her to ruin his good mood.
"She needs rest. Take her home Brat and I'll be back for another exam tomorrow." The medicine woman directed.
"Thanks for keeping an eye on her Granny." He winked mischievously.
"Hmph, yeah, yeah stupid Brat."
"Let's go Luce?"
"Sure, just help me up first?" She struggled to get herself out of the chair; but with the help of her mate, the pair were able to leave the group with a quick goodbye.
"So where did the boys end up taking you?" She asked on their way back to their room.
"We had a bonfire roast! It was really fun!"
"We got pampered and Luna made out like a bandit with all the presents she got. Erza will be bringing them by the nursery later on...oh and I'm sorry.. I let Luna's name slip out."
"Heh, that's okay. I did the same thing during our games. Gajeel wanted to know for Levy. But I guess it wasn't too big of a deal. I think they wanted to know out of curiosity, but also to make sure they didn't name their kids after what we are naming ours."
"Well speaking of little ones, you getting nervous?"
"To be honest, yeah I am, but I am more excited than anything. I can't wait to hold her, you know? I have been dying to meet her."
"Me too." Lucy leaned more on her sweet husband as they continued the rest of the walk back to the room.
~Few Days Later~
Lucy found herself bedridden with her feet propped up, ice chips nearby, and a friend or two never far from her side. Natsu never left her or their child for too long or if ever. He kept a dutiful eye on them both as if his life depended on it. He did everything in his power to ensure comfort to his mate and child from midnight massages to early morning fire runs. His senses were going crazy with the way his daughter was preparing to enter the world. He couldn't deny that he kept feeling a little crestfallen every time Parlyusica would give an exam and tell them that today wasn't the day; that she would come check again tomorrow. He just was so ready to meet her. As for the wife of the Fire Dragon, she shared in her mate's same wants and desires. She didn't think her poor bladder could withstand having this pressure any longer! She tried to get as comfortable as she could; but with her lower back pain and swollen feet, she felt it damn near impossible. All she wanted now was for all of this to be finally over.
This particular afternoon, Lucy was being visited by Storm as Gray wanted to take his own wife horseback riding as a long, overdue date; which this led Lucy to volunteer to babysit with Natsu. She found herself in the rocking chair with her feet up while watching her mate playing on the floor with dragon figurines as his played with Storm's. She smiled in spite of herself as the pair looked so adorable in their dragon fight. She rested one hand on her belly while eating her ice chips. In this afternoon everything appeared peaceful, but that is how all big events end up happening. With a sudden urge to use the restroom for the 90th time in the past hour, She had gotten herself up from the chair and was waddling towards the room to find herself some relief.
Natsu's head suddenly shot up as he looked shocked in her direction. As his mate made a step forward, the floor was suddenly spilt with water that came from her. She lost her balance, but was able to be caught by her husband's embrace. Storm looked up perplexed at the swiftness of the older man and the confusion of his wife.
"Uncle Natsu?"
"It's okay Storm. Can you help Aunt Lucy out?" He didn't let his anxiety show, and remained uncharacteristically calm. However, the Celestial Princess was an entirely different story. Her eyes were wide with fear as realization filled her.
"Yes, what can I do?" The boy asked as he stood.
"Bring me that pack by our bed." As soon as the child was out of sight, he turned his attention back on his fearful mate that was on the verge of another panic attack.
"Shh, it's okay Luce. I'm right here. Do you feel any pain?" He remained the voice of reason as he could only share in his wife's fear.
"N-no, Natsu, what just ha-happened...did I..."
"I think you did. But let's go find Parlyusica just to be safe, hmm?"
"I'm scared."
"Don't be. This is a good thing Luce. Luna is coming! This means she gets to meet her parents finally!" He quietly consoled her.
"But we are not ready."
This earned her a snort from the prince, "Please, we are more than ready. Come on Luce, let's go on another adventure." He grinned widely.
"I got it!" Came the worried voice of Storm.
"Good job Kid! Alright, hold onto Aunt Lucy's hand." Natsu picked up the bag and helped his mate make the journey to the infirmary.
With only one look, Lucy was admitted into a room and Natsu, with Storm, were by her side. Already she was administered something to help combat the pain and was resting somewhat comfortably in the bed while hooked up to monitors. Natsu had sent a messenger to inform the others of the situation. Storm stayed close to Lucy and wouldn't let go of her hand. "Aunty Lucy, are you going to be okay?" Came his meekly question.
"We are going to be more than fine little one. Don't you worry about that. Luna is getting ready to come out, so you both can be friends and play together." The princess assured him. The celestial mother felt him grip her hands tighter as his worry was more predominant than hers.
"Stay with Aunt Lucy popsicle. I am gonna go track down the others so everyone knows what is going on."
"Can I stay until Luna comes?"
"We'll see. Just right now keep an eye on my girls." Natsu ruffled the child's hair and stepped out to see if any of the others made it to the waiting area. In the next hour or so the others had all gathered together after hearing word from Natsu's messenger. When both Gray and Juvia arrived, their son was returned to them.
"How much longer is it gonna be?" Gajeel grumbled with is arms folded.
Levy lightly slapped his shoulder as she was sitting close to him, "As long as it takes. Be sweet; Lu-chan is probably in a lot of pain."
"Can Lucy have visitors?" Juvia asked Parlyusica who had helped Natsu escort Storm back to his waiting parents.
"I will give a quick exam to see how far along she is and a few at a time may visit as long as she decided she can handle seeing anyone."
"Let's get back to her Granny."
"Natsu, I want to see her first." Happy stepped forward with Carla by his side. His best friend gave an understanding nod.
"You got it lil' buddy. Keep good thoughts on Luce, alright?" He gave a reassuring grin and followed the medicine woman back to where his labored mate was resting.
Back at the room, Natsu held onto his wife's hand as the woman made quick work to check on the child and mother."You're about 4cm dilated." Parlyusica spoke after she washed her hand thoroughly. The Dragon Prince helped to re-cover his mate to preserve her modesty and assisted her in laying back properly against the pillows.
"When can I see the others?"
"If you are up to it, now would be the choice time. However, my one condition that a few at a time. You need to maintain your strength in the long stretch ahead.
"Could you send in Panther Lily, Carla, and Happy?"
"I shall." She gave a nod before leaving the room. The Prince of Dragons returned his attention down to his wife and brushed aside loose strands of her hair that had fallen in her face. She smiled weakly up at him; clearly still feeling fine from the pain killers she was given by the nurses.
"Hey beautiful." He affectionately whispered.
"Hi..."
"You doing okay love?"
"I feel great." She gave a loopy smile.
"Yeah, sounds like it."
"Lushiiii!" Cried a voice suddenly from the opening door as Happy flew in with his more calm comrades trailing behind him. Natsu was easily able to intercept as Happy wouldn't fly head on into his wife's chest.
She reached her arms out, "Happy! It's good to see you!" The husband allowed his best pal to sit in her bed as they exchanged a more gentler form of greeting.
"Are you alright? Is the baby hurting you?" He asked her concerned in her embrace.
"Happy, we're okay. Right now, Parlyusica and Natsu are taking really good care of us. Don't you worry none. I'm so excited for everyone to meet Luna; especially you. Our family will feel even more completed." She soothed the blue feline.
"I'll make sure to take care of the fur ball until you are better Lucy. It'll be one less thing you have to worry about." Carla folded her arms.
"Well thank you. That makes me feel a bit better." Natsu smiled.
"Do you know how much longer until she comes?"
"Parlyusica says it could be a day or even three. It all depends on Luna and how quickly I dilate. But tell the others that you can't rush a princess, Lily." Lucy found herself giggling despite her situation.
"Well we are rooting for you guys out in the waiting rom. Take your time and help her get to our world safe. We should be going." Carla reached up and pulled a snuggling Happy from Lucy's arms.
"But why? We just got here!" The azure furred Exceed protested.
"We have a line after us and Lucy will need to conserve her energy for later." Panther Lily reprimanded his companion.
"Go on Happy, trust me, Luce is in good hands. You'll meet your niece soon." Natsu gave a wink. With another quick farewell, the Exceeds were replaced by a sweet Wendy. She had come into the room and already went to work on healing Lucy's ailments.
"Parlyusica gave me special permission to come when Lucy calls for me to help her when she needs it."
"Heh, looks like you are getting the special treatment." Natsu nudged his little cousin. Instantly she blushed as well as become bashful from his praise. The labored mother reached out and gently squeezed the girl's hand.
"Thank you Wendy. I swear you are an angel. I feels so much better."
"It's no problem Lucy. If I can help in some way and take your pain so that the baby comes safely, then that is worth using all my magic." Lucy leaned forward and hugged her the best her body would allow.
"Thank you Wendy. You really are a true blessing."
"Of course Lucy, anytime." The dragoness hugged back.
"If you want Wendy, I'll see if we can get you a cot or something. I feel we are going to need you close by."
"I'll talk to Parlyusica. If I can, I think I'll take you up on that offer." She smiled brightly. With the couple's gratitude, she made her departure after a few moments more of checking Lucy's vitals and feeling the baby in the womb. With the child's retreat, she was quickly replaced by Erza and Jellal whom were next in the line that was waiting to see the Dragneel couple.
"Congratulations you two. I am very excited to meet the newest member of our family that you both created." Jellal clapped a hand on the Prince of Dragon's back.
"Yeah, I think we all are pretty excited."
"You aren't nervous are you Lucy?" Erza was by her friend's bedside.
"Extremely, but knowing everyone we love and supports us is nearby, I feel gives us more courage to eclipse our worries. Thank you for being here." Lucy brilliantly smiled at the scarlet haired beauty.
"Of course, you just try and stop us from being near my godchild!"
"Uh-oh." Jellal chuckled.
"Godchild?"
"Considering Luna may fall in love with Storm, I have appointed myself as Godmother. Someone must protect her virtue and heart!"
"Can she do that?" Natsu whispered.
"Looks like she and Jellal just did. But I see no harm. It's only befitting Erza and Jellal are her godparents. I approve as long as you do." Lucy whispered back to her mate.
"Well whatever my wife wishes; then it shall be so." He gave a wink.
"If you don't mind, we'll not be in the waiting room until later. We want to make sure everything is ready for when you leave the infirmary after she is born."
"It's up to you what you want to do, you guys. But we appreciate the support none the less."
"And you won't think ill of us if we get some rest?" Erza asked concerned.
"Not at all. In fact, you all should be going about your lives. I feel bad you all are just out there waiting. Luna will come when she is ready. Just relax and go about how you all normally would." The princess reassured.
"I'll pass that information onto the others. Get some rest. I'll send in Levy and Gajeel next. She seems to be more nervous than you two. Hopefully seeing you will give her a comforting reassurance." Jellal chuckled.
"Thanks for the warning. And again, thank you both for everything. I am afraid Luce and I would be a real mess without you guys here." Natsu shook the man's hand. Erza leaned down and kissed her friend's cheek.
"Take care of my goddaughter. I expect her in perfect condition when I see her."
"I'll do my best." Lucy teased with a final 'see you in a bit' farewell; Jellal and Erza leaving gave way to Levy and Gajeel exchanging places.
"Lu-chan!" Wailed a very pregnant bluenette that sobbed into the Celestial Princess's open arms. Gajeel strode in and hung back with Natsu as they watched Lucy comforted her weeping friend.
"Shh, shh it's okay Levy-chan. I am not dying and Luna is going to be just fine. No one is hurting too badly.
"Bu-but, it's too soon! I am so worried for you both! What if she comes and dies?!"
"Oi! Don't put that idea into her head!" Natsu scolded.
"It's okay Natsu," Lucy gently assured him, "Levy, Parlyusica says this is normal. Thanks to you, I'm in good hands. I promise everything is going to be alright. We are at the infirmary and Luna is completely safe-after all, she is hopefully going to be born very soon."
"B-but-"
"No 'buts' Levy. We are safe and Luna will be born shortly. Why not put a smile and greet her warmly like the Levy-chan I know?"
"...okay..."
"Don't be scared Hun. Besides, you have so much to help me with when it comes to her, like the best stories to read to her or to give me the best advice. You know, pretty soon, she's gonna have new playmates. We are gonna watch our little ones play together soon. But Levy, this is a happy time for us. So don't be too worried, okay? There is nothing to be fretting over." Lucy consoled her close friend. she gently petted her companion's locks as the other pregnant woman cried on her shoulder.
She looked over at where her husband and trainer were and caught the dark haired man's eye as he mouthed 'Thank you' to her. She gave a wink and turned her attention back to her blubbering mess of a friend that was attempting to pull herself together. "Being pregnant is no fun, huh?" Natsu teased the Metal Dragon that shot him an even glare.
"Fuck you Salamander." This earned a chuckle from the Prince of Dragons.
"Don't worry Gajeel, it'll be your turn next."
"Lucky me."
"Hey guys, if you are done insulting each other, I think Levy-chan needs to go lay down before she ends up joining the labor party." Lucy lightly teased.
"N-no Lu-chan, I need to stay with you..." Levy pleaded.
"No Shrimp, you need a nap." Gajeel was instantly by her side and pulling Levy into his cradling embrace. She had worked over her energy and could only curl up in a pregnant ball of exhaustion.
"Sleep well Levy-chan. Make sure she eats and is fully rested before she visits again. She is caring for 3 now." Lucy warned warmly.
"Copy that Bunny Girl. You rest up too."
"We plan on it." Natsu gave a curt nod.
"Thank you for seeing us. Hopefully we will see you guys soon." Lucy waved them off as Gajeel took their leave.
"Only Gray and Juvia are left?" Lucy looked warily at her mate.
"You getting overwhelmed?"
"I can stomach on more visit. I am getting hungry if anything."
"Well how about I get something and they keep you company until I get back?"
"You sure?"
"Not like she is gonna be born in the next 15 minutes, right?"
"Hey! Don't jinx us!"
"Heh, who knew you were the superstitious type?"
"I am when you start jinxing my good luck." Lucy pouted.
"Well take your own advice and know everything is going to be just fine." He kissed the tip of her nose and left to bring back the Fullbuster family.
Storm had returned to his mother's side, "Welcome back sweetie." Lucy cupped her palm against his cheek as they approached her side.
"How is she?" He placed his small hand on her belly.
"Getting ready still. One thing you will learn all about Storm is that girl's rarely ever ready for their dates on time. They like to make you sweat it out sometime." She gave a wink and then turned her gaze up to his chuckling parent's faces, "Sorry about our outing." She apologized.
"Hey, you couldn't help it. After all, pryo's kid could only have his horrible sense of timing." The Ice King chuckled.
"Juvia knows all about what is Lucy going through. Is there anything Juvia or Gray-sama can do to help Lucy?"
"Your world famous ice chips would be the best right now."
"Let me Mommy." Storm grabbed a cup and with his magic began to work on the Celestial Princess's request.
"Thank you Storm." He gave her the biggest smile. "Was Storm like this when you went into labor, Juvia?"
"Oh no! Juvia was in a lot of pain, but Gray-sama was there to help Juvia through it all. It seems that Lucy is really relaxed for being in labor herself?"
"Well, I did have Wendy just give me a treatment and I've been on some pretty great medicine that Parlyusica put me on."
"Heh, well no wonder you are handling this like a breeze. So how far along did the good doc say you were?"
"About 4cm..."
"Luna is moving slowly."
"Yeah, but I figure she'll be here when she is here."
"Aunt Lucy, are you really sure you are going to be okay?" Lucy couldn't help the tick going off in her mind. How many times would she be asked this question today? She couldn't really blame her love ones, but couldn't she just put up a big sign outside her door that she was 'fine', so she wouldn't have to answer that question again. But, she couldn't exactly do anything about it as that slight annoyance died down when she saw the concerned look on the boy's worried face.
"Thought I told ya popsicle, She is gonna be more than fine." Natsu spoke as he brought the food in on a tray he was caring. Storm had finished with the ice chips and handed the cup to the mother in the bed.
"Juvia doesn't think food is a good idea..."
"Luce says she feels hungry."
"Yeah, but did you run that past Parlyusica?" Gray folded his arms.
"Look, I just want food okay?!" The labored mother quickly snapped. All eyed were on source of the uncalled for comment.
"Well, you all heard her." Natsu smugly responded and set the tray down where he watched his wife happily dig in.
"Juvia thinks we should let Lucy and Natsu get some rest." The Water Queen picked up her son and rejoined her husband's side.
"But Mommy, I want to stay." Her son protested.
"Sorry lil' guy, but your Mom is right; we need to focus on Luna here. Don't worry, we'll let you see her first when she is ready for guests." Natsu offered a compromise that seemed to pacify the child.
"Tell Luna to hurry and that I can't wait to see her!" He called over his mother's shoulder as the Fullbuster's left.
"We will." Lucy waved a lot more calmer after having some food to calm her nerves that were getting to her.
"Well he certainly isn't the only one." The Fire Dragon sighed. His mate reached over and gently squeezed his hand as he took a seat.
"She'll get here when she gets here. It's like Parlyusica said; she's running the show now."
"Hopefully, she'll be more like me and rush."
"Fat chance buddy. She is all me and she's taking her sweet time."
"Wouldn't have her any other way." He leaned over and kissed her affectionately.
~2 Days Later~
Outside Princess Lucy's delivery room one could hear the cries of the celestial mother as new life was making way into this world. Inside, Prince Natsu's hand was being held by the iron like grip of his mate. While he, by now, had lost all circulation in his finger, it was nothing compared to watching her turn shades of red and purple while she pushed. The good doctor was between her legs with a team of nurses scurrying about in assisting in this historical birth. Fresh tears streamed down the cheeks of the laboring mother as the pain was immense. she kept seeing white spots and felt a fire-like pressure between her neither regions. Her body felt as if it was eclipsed in the depth of this pain-it was nothing quite like she felt before.
She depended on her mate as he was her strength to get through this. They caught each other's eyes-her panicked one with his worried. He kept telling her all kinds of words of encouragements, but they fell on deaf ears as her sights was set solely on him.
"Granny! What the hell is going on down there?!" He barked.
"Did I not warn you that these types of births are more intense? It takes time for the child to come. Keep having her push when she feels contractions!" The older woman snapped back. Another cry ripped out of the laboring princess as her body felt drained and exhausted.
"N-Natsu!" She cried out with another wave coursing through her.
"Damn Luce, I'm gonna go deaf if you keep screaming at me like that!"
"You bastard!" The princess seethed at the man daring to argue when she was thrown into a different kind of hell.
"Hey! Stop yelling you brats! I can't concentrate."
"Shut up you old hag! How could you like-OH GOD!" The heiress found herself letting out another cry as a rather rough contraction ripped through her again.
"Luce! Hang on!"
"She's finally crowning. I can see the head. Two more pushes should do it."
"Hear that Luce, she's almost here!"
"I can't! Oh gods I can't! I'm being ripped ap-OH! FUCK THIS!" She bellowed out uncharacteristically.
"Keep pushing girl! Her head is through!" By now the labored mother was sobbing into the shoulder of her husband. He held onto her securely as he continued to tell her anything he could to keep her going; and he felt her pain as the final contraction passed through her.
A newborn's cry pierced the air as new life came into this world. Little bundle of pink fell into the waiting hands of the good doctor as she was quickly passed onto the waiting nurses. Quickly they took the small royal princess and examined her. When she was cleaned and given a clean bill of health, her father left her mother's side to cut the cord while her mother was being cleaned from the afterbirth. The nurses showed the Dragon Prince the proper way to swaddle his newborn daughter in the blanket that the couple instructed the medical team for their baby to be placed in-a tradition that came from Natsu's side of the family. He held onto her gently in his arms as she whimpered against him. "Hey, hey, I got you Luna. Papa has you little girl. I've been waiting a very long time to meet you small one." His eyes watered at this beautiful, tiny creature in his large arms. She was small, pink, and above all else-perfect.
In an instant his whole life suddenly shifted again. He can consciously recall only a significant handful of instances when he life was forever changed as he knew it; and this was another one of those times. His little daughter crying through Lucy's eyes while he could tell from the whips of her hair that she had his coloring. She was everything; he would kill for her, die for her, and he would protect her no matter the cost-even at his own peril if the fates deemed that the price. "Luna...Luna...-where is my daughter..." Called the weak voice of the little princess' mother.
Natsu turned around and was brought back into the moment from his own inner realization. "She's here Luce. I got her." He returned to his mate's side and placed his crying child into her waiting arms.
"Sh-she's crying? What's wrong? Is she hurt?" Lucy asked with her voice full of emotional concern.
"Nah, she's right as rain. See for yourself." He watched his wife carefully check their daughter over. He saw her count her fingers and toes, examine her breathing carefully, and he noticed the deep concentration on her expression as she contemplated if their daughter was actually here. He couldn't stop himself from chuckling when she finally relaxed. "Better?" he teased.
"Yeah, I am glad she is alright."
"Never said she wasn't. But she is finally here. Why not say a proper 'hello', Luce?"
Lucy fixed the newborn more comfortably in her arms. She found she couldn't take her eyes off their precious little one. She was adorably cute and that coloring of pink was just the perfect shade for her. The days of labor finally weighed on her as she felt more tears well up and spill down her cheeks. She leaned forward and placed a tender kiss on the infant's temple.
"Luce?"
"She's really here. She is so beautiful." The mother sobbed.
"Oh Luce." He wrapped an arm around her shoulders while he shifted to sit in the bed with them. She felt him kiss her passionately and lost herself in the love and comfort of her mate. They rested their heads together and gazed lovingly at their now resting baby. It was at this moment that they both realized something: Lucy couldn't live, nor imagine life without Luna, and Natsu realized he would have to live in the shadows to ensure his daughter's safeguarded life.
~3 Days Later~
It had been a flurry of visitors to welcome the new princess and to pay respects. Of course, the most endearing interaction was with Storm. He was sorely disappointed to know that the little princess wasn't old enough to venture outside to play or build a snowman with his ice magic. But that didn't stop him from creating snow from his hands for her to see. He even presented a gift-a necklace he made with his father in a shape of a star jewel made of ice. Lucy had thanked him and reassured that when Luna was old enough that she would be able to wear it properly. Storm pouted, but he accepted after a little praise from his uncle.
Everyone else fawned over the newest Dragneel and each got a turn to love on her. Eventually, the royal family was moved back into their normal quarters and Luna had gotten accustom to her nursery. The transition went a lot smoother then the couple had thought, but none were complaining about their stroke of good luck. Natsu sat on the floor by the crib as he watched his mate lovingly sing to their daughter. Above the crib, the constellation of Aries was painted. Lucy watched her tired child finally close her warm amber eyes. The Fire Dragon Prince couldn't stop watching them. Even though his heart was heavy, he couldn't stop enjoying seeing his family in this intimate moment.
Lucy had looked over to see the odd expression on her husband's face, "Natsu? You are awfully quiet over there. Something on your mind?"
"Yeah actually, but I am just trying to commit this to memory."
"Natsu?" He picked himself off the floor and kneeled by her knees while holding onto her free hand as he took it into his own. He lightly rubbed his thumb atop her skin and lowered his gaze. It took all his willpower to even be near her like this as he knew what was in his heart and in his mind-it just didn't make it any easier to tell her.
"Luce, you were right."
"...Right about what?"
"I have to stay away to make sure she grows up safe."
"Wait, what? No, Natsu, no. Are we really back to that again? Look, I was acting stupid, alright? I was just letting my dumb hormones talk!" She felt her body still.
"No Luce, we have to put her first. If Luna knows me and she meets Zeref, and she will have a higher chance of meeting him, she'll be tricked into telling him who I am and where you are. He will trick her and we both know this. The less she knows, the better our chances for her safety and yours."
"But what about us?" She felt the tears welling up as her heart was breaking.
"Shh, no, none of that my mate." He cupped her cheeks and wiped any leaked out tears. "I'm never going to stop visiting you or being with you, but Luna can't know of me or see me until it is much safer. And if she does, she has to know me as Prince Natsu. None of the truth can be told until you are stronger and she knows the right things to say in a situation like that. I want her safe. I want her happy. I want to give her, her best chance. Tell me that you don't want the same?"
"O-of course I do."
"This is giving her, her best chance. Luce, you need to teach and to watch her grow for me. Cherish her and love her enough for the both of us. Tell me every single thing she does so that I will be strong enough for the three of us- to be strong enough to keep protecting my family. Please Luce, say you will do this for me? I know it is a selfish request and it is not right by either of you, but please say you will do this?" Lucy could only give a weak nod. How could she deny such logic as that; deny her mate's heartfelt request? He pulled her into a kiss as if it was a farewell to the dream of what should have been. It was all to give his family their best chance-and he needed to be man enough to do this for them. And so, Natsu Dragneel grew up in this moment-he had become prince, husband, man, and now a father.