Part VI
Coriander
(Hidden worth/merit)
It takes a longer time than Levy would have liked for her to become aware of her surroundings. For some time, she's known that she's awake. She's just had no idea what's going on around her. Her ears have been shoved full of cotton. Her tongue is heavy in her mouth. Her throat aches, as does the rest of her body. Her eyes can't open, bleared over and crusted shut. She can barely even breathe, each breath ragged as she struggles to suck it down.
But, eventually, she manages to force her eyes open. Even then, it's difficult to focus, to see at all. Her eyes roll blindly, seeking something that might bring her comfort before she sinks blissfully back into sleep. She's greeted with vague shapes and sounds. Muffled voices that are just familiar enough to make her want to sob in relief. A deep, rumbling one is a constant, hoarse and pained. There are often a few others, one in particular making her want to curl in a ball and allow the warmth of it to seep into her blood.
She has to try a few times to get her vision to work properly, and when it does, everything comes crashing back down on her. She remembers the battle in Hargeon as she ran alongside Lucy. She remembers the creature that had risen from the depths of the ocean, gleefully grinning at her in triumph. She remembers the raining shower of blood that had come from Metalicana when he'd grabbed that very creature. She remembers Natsu's fear, the admission he'd made to Lucy, Gajeel, and herself.
And she remembers Gajeel's hands on her as she sunk to the ground, unable to breathe, suffocating without so much as a drop of water on her lips.
She's in a bed, which is in an unfamiliar room. She's tucked in neatly; she's grateful for that, as it's helpful in warding off the chill that rattles her teeth with their chattering. And when she slowly rolls her head, the action sending pain radiating through her body, she sees that someone else is comfortably resting in the bed across the room.
Metalicana.
Her stomach drops. So he had been affected, too. She makes a small sound of agony as she pulls herself upright. The pain nearly sends her back into a realm of darkness. It's immense, and it makes it harder to breathe. But she perseveres until she's upright. She pants for breath, her lungs aching. Whatever that demon had done to her…
"Easy, little one." Metalicana's hoarse voice makes her jolt in surprise, and she hisses. When she looks over, his red eyes gleam with something unreadable. Amusement, perhaps? Regardless, he's as tired as she is, but doesn't seem to have nearly as many problems as he rocks upright. Had he had less than she had? He is a dragon...perhaps that's why he can so easily swing his legs over the side. "It'll take time to move without pain."
Levy coughs, ignoring the red that stains her fingers. She wipes it carefully on her lap. "What...happened?"
"The demon must have had some kind of poison on it," he snarls under his breath. He coughs himself, clearing his chest when it rattles loudly enough for her to hear. "It targeted you. That's what we believe, anyways."
"Why...me?" she breathes.
"You are favored by humans, dragons, and the stars alike. Clearly, you're a threat," Metalicana answers with a shrug. He eyes a pitcher on the table beside his own bed and suddenly smirks. Levy's lips twitch into a weak smile when he seizes it with ease - and promptly hurls it across the room so that it shatters on the wall. "Watch," he mutters, already cackling tiredly.
Sure enough, within a handful of minutes, someone comes storming in. Mirajane. "Metalicana. Honestly." Her blue eyes blaze with aggravation, as if this is a common occurrence. Honestly, it wouldn't surprise Levy if it is. Metalicana is certainly the type to do such things. Still, grateful that Metalicana found some way to bring Mirajane in, Levy clears her throat softly. Mirajane whirls around and nearly shrieks in delighted relief. "Levy! You're awake." She rushes over, and Levy doesn't miss the bandages wrapped around her arm, the fresh new scar that runs along her collarbone. It makes Levy falter.
Who else had been hurt in this attack? Were they okay? Alive? Where are Jet and Droy? But she doesn't ask such questions; instead, she says hoarsely, "Sort of." Even now, she finds she's exhausted and ready to sink back down into sleep. Yet, she forces herself to remain awake and focused. There are more important things to tend to then the sleep she craves oh, so badly.
"I'll fetch Grandeeney," says Mirajane firmly. "And then I'll get you something to eat."
Before Levy can ask her anything or say something more, Mirajane's whisking back out of the room, closing the door quietly behind her. Levy turns her face towards Metalicana, puzzled. "Grandeeney's here?" she demands.
Metalicana smirks. "'Course she is," he rumbles, settling back with a brief flicker of discomfort on his face. Clearly, he is still feeling the effects of the poison, too. "The demons managed to poison a dragon who is capable of withstanding most things like that. Like hell they'd not send Grandeeney. Besides. A human is even less capable of surviving such things than we are, and Natsu begged Igneel to allow her to come. Igneel can't refuse his son."
Levy hums in understanding, her mind flickering back to Natsu. She remembers his sobbing face clearly, the stricken look of terror. She hopes he's feeling better, no matter how much he must hate what he's discovered, and he hopes that Lucy is helping him with it. "Where's Gajeel?" she suddenly asks, remembering how he'd been the one to stop her from hitting the ground.
"Somewhere," grunts Metalicana, unconcerned. "He's been in and out here and there. Been spendin' a shocking amount of time with Igneel's brat."
Levy isn't surprised. Gajeel is now one of very few people who is privy to important knowledge about what Natsu is, and no matter what front he puts on, is ensuring that Natsu is kept safe from Zeref's clutches.
Grandeeney enters the room then, her eyes lit with relief. "I'm pleased to hear you're awake, Levy," she says sincerely as she stops beside Levy's bed. "I wasn't sure you'd wake up at all. The poison did significant damage to your body before I could arrive, even with Chelia doing her best to slow its work."
Levy bites her lip, somewhat wary of what Grandeeney could potentially tell her. "What...what kind of damage?"
"Well," says Grandeeney gently, waving for her to lay down. Levy does as she's told and watches as Grandeeney pushes her shirt up and places a hand on her belly, ensuring to be gentle. Even so, Levy finds herself wincing as pain splinters through her. "Your internal organs were struggling immensely, and still are. They're much better than they were before, however, so I believe they will continue to improve to some extent. Your heart nearly gave out here and there, but it's been a few days since that happened. All in all, I think you'll recover mostly. You're just going to have to be a little more careful. Too much exertion, and you'll likely be back in bed."
Levy lets out a loud breath of relief. "I'll live, and that's all that matters to me," she says firmly.
Grandeeney holds her hand up with a sympathetic look. "I'm not finished," she tells Levy with such a gentle look that fear curls in Levy's gut. "You cannot use magic."
It's like the world is ripped out from underneath her feet. "What?" whispers Levy, voice cracking.
"You cannot use magic," repeats Grandeeney, reaching out to stroke Levy's hair reassuringly. She smiled sadly, her face full of fondness for the devastated mage. "Magic...it's a very powerful force, Levy. It tires even the strongest wielder after some time. Igneel, himself, could not use magic infinitely without resting. Humans...your bodies cannot handle magic as easily as our own can. The weaker the body is, the harder magic impacts it. Most can withstand the brutality. Bodies repair themselves, grow immune. But this poison...whatever it was, it ripped you apart, Levy. It looks as if it's gone so far as to make you incompatible with your own magic. The best I can do is attempt to fix this, but...in the meantime…"
The world has not just been ripped out from beneath her; it's been shattered around her, in every way. Magic is what has given her everything she has after being born to a woman who left her homeless and starving upon her death. Magic gave her a family, gave her the chance to meet the dragons and do everything she wanted to do as a child.
Without magic…
"I'll...I'll have to leave the guild if that's the case," she chokes out. "It's part of the requirements to join the guild - you have to be capable of using magic. I'm going to lose my family." Her voice breaks, and a choked sob leaves her. Before long, she finds herself weeping. She presses her face into her hands, her tears streaming endlessly from her eyes. Grandeeney utters a sound of sympathy and runs her fingers along Levy's head.
"I'm sorry," rumbles Metalicana, and it only makes her cry harder.
When Levy awakens after crying herself back into slumber, Grandeeney and Metalicana are gone, but someone else dozes in a chair near her bed. She makes a choked sound. "Gajeel," she breathes, immediately struggling upright, her eyes already heavy with unshed tears again. The iron dragon startles awake, staring blankly at her for a few moments, and then gives her a familiar, mocking grin.
"Look who's finally up," he drawls. He reaches over and roughly pats her on the head, crimson eyes gleaming with playful mockery. "Took ya long enough. Had to leave all the work to the rest of us."
She finds herself smiling faintly, unable to push that smile away. "Sorry. Couldn't keep my eyes open," she replies, and he snorts, cackling under his breath. Levy thinks he sounds rather like his father in that moment.
Her amusement fades after a few heartbeats, as does her smile. Immense sadness sweeps through her. "Grandeeney told me that using magic would kill me now." Her lips press into a hard line.
"Yeah," he mutters. "I know. She told us."
Levy wonders what else Grandeeney has told "them," and who "us" was exactly. She fidgets unhappily with the blanket that covers her legs. "I'm sorry," she murmurs after a short period of silence. She swallows thickly. "I can't do anything anymore. To help with the war. Without magic...I'm useless, Gajeel. Completely useless."
An unhappy frown tugs at his mouth and Gajeel rocks forward, baring his teeth. "It wasn't your magic that got you to Tenrou, was it? It was the other stuff." Levy frowns, confused, and he mutters as he rolls his eyes, "You're an idiot for someone who knows so much."
"Why thank you," Levy mutters with a hint of sarcasm.
"Weren't you the one that was always going on about how humans have knowledge and strategy?" Gajeel points out instead of responding. "You could never keep up with stars and dragons, so you make up for it. S'just gonna be a little harder for you."
Levy stares at him, realizing what he's saying. Maybe she cannot use magic. Maybe she will be kicked from the guild - unwillingly, by those within it - for her inability to use magic. But she still has everything she's acquired during the years she's enjoyed magic. She can still read, write, and speak so many different languages. She can still strategize, just as Gajeel says. She can still be a mediator between dragons and humans.
There's still so much she can do.
"You're right," says Levy, shaking off her self-pity. There's no time for that. They're at war with demons - and her friend seems to be right at the center of it all alongside his beloved. For some reason, Zeref is insistent on getting to Natsu and using him as some kind of weapon to win this war. Levy wonders if they can use that against Zeref - if Natsu might be willing to take advantage of what he now knows to be true.
Besides, there's still the bargain with the stars to consider. They need to ensure that the stars will remain within the war, or all will be lost for certain.
"I need to speak with Leo, if he's available." Levy's voice is firm and Gajeel cocks a pierced brow, almost amused. She's done wallowing in her misery, considering what she's lost to the demons and Zeref's side of the war. Now, she'll do what she needs to do in order to help them win. "Can you help me find him?"
Gajeel grunts, slapping a hand on top of her head and ruffling her hair fondly. "Yeah, sure." Even so, he looks a little suspicious as he rocks to his feet. "Don't go nowhere. Grandeeney said you'd make it a couple o' feet and then pass out. Pops took a while, and he's a dragon. Can't think about how long it's gonna take someone like you; hurts my head."
"Thanks," Levy sighs. I think. Gajeel goes to leave and find the two she's requested to see, but Levy suddenly stops him, grabbing his wrist in one hand with a small, delicate touch. "Gajeel," she says softly, and he glances at her. She's not blind; she's noticed the wary, tired look he wears - the concern hidden behind an attitude as he scowls at her. "I'm sorry."
She doesn't have to say what she's sorry for; he understands immediately. His lips twitched in a hint of a smirk, and he suddenly turns to bend over her. He tugs playfully on a wild lock of blue hair. She offers a small smirk in return, relieved - until he suddenly yanks on it rather sharply, mischief evident in the way he barks out a laugh as she shrieks in outrage and swats at him.
He grows serious a moment later, however, and says grimly, "Whatever bargain you make, Levy, you better think long and hard about it before you agree to it. The stars twist things in whatever way they can so it benefits them and no one else."
"I'll be careful," she promises confidently, and Gajeel believes her. He looks inclined to say something else to her for a moment, but shakes it off and instead leaves, intending to find Leo. He knows Lucy's waiting for Levy to wake up, too, for different reasons. Natsu is also waiting. Gajeel supposes he'll grab him, too.
So long as Levy is awake, he doesn't really care who sees her.
Leo insists that Levy rest more before she truly sits down to bargain with the stars. He's been granted permission to bargain with Levy on behalf of the Spirit King, who refuses to step foot in the mortal realm. Levy is relieved; at least she'll bargain with someone who knows what is and isn't right. From the sounds of it, the Spirit King cares fiercely for his stars, but refuses to do anything that will not benefit them in the long run.
Despite Leo's insistence, Levy demands that they bargain sooner rather than later.
If this is one of the only things she can do to help in the war, then so be it.
Leo refuses to allow anyone else to be in the room, and Levy doesn't mind. She doesn't want anyone else to influence her. Lucy and Natsu are waiting to see her, too, she's been told, although they've agreed to wait until Leo and Levy are done with their bargain. She knows neither are happy about it. Regardless, they wait outside the room with Gajeel, impatient.
"You understand what you're asking?" Leo asks Levy softly after she's laid out what she wants from the stars. "It's a very steep cost the Spirit King will demand in turn for these demands, Levy. Not only are you asking the stars to remain in the war, but your demands include Lucy, too. She's treasured by the stars. A princess of sorts, among us."
"I'm not asking," Levy fires back, frustrated by Leo's hesitance, "for you to give Lucy up entirely, Leo, I'm asking you to give her time with Natsu. Once a month. That's it. One day a month. That seems reasonable enough to me."
"Perhaps if it was Natsu bargaining, and if you weren't bargaining for us to remain in the war as well," Leo points out. "I'm not saying these things because I agree with them, you know. I agree with you. I think Lucy should see Natsu as she desires to, and I disagree with our withdrawal from this war, but you have to see things from the stars' point of view. The stars are old, and most don't see the world the same way you do, Levy."
Levy sits there for a few moments, debating. Finally, she asks, "If this is such a heavy price, then what will the Spirit King demand in response?"
"I won't know until I present the terms to him," admits Leo. "And we need to be quick about this, so is there anything else you wish to ask of him before I go to present them to him? I cannot guarantee how quick his response will be, so it's best to get this moving as soon as we can."
"Right." Levy takes a deep breath and then lets it out in a loud rush. "I want Lucy to be allowed to see Natsu at least once a month until the end of time." She knows to be specific; Metalicana had mentioned the need during their conversation before the battle had broken out. "I wish for the stars to continue taking part in this war with the demons until Igneel declares its end."
Leo considers what she's said, thinking over it carefully. When he fully believes that the terms are worded correctly and to what he believes the Spirit King's standards, he rises to his feet and bows his head politely. "If you will excuse me, I will present these terms to the Spirit King. Be prepared, Levy. The return he will ask of you will not be pleasant. You will have to accept the bargain before things begin to happen, however." He bids Levy a final farewell, and then vanishes in a flash of beautiful starlight.
When he's gone, Levy lets out a loud breath and then shouts, "Gajeel?"
His response is immediate, dragging a hint of a grin to her face. For someone who'd claimed to hate humans for so long, he proves himself to be rather fond of one now. Levy doesn't mind; besides, she knows that it's not every human. Just as he's told her, he cares not for multiple humans. He only cares for one.
Potentially two, Levy thinks. She's heard rumors - before the battle in which the demons had come to Hargeon - that he's become rather fond of little Asuka.
"Levy!" gasps Lucy as she comes flying into the room. Levy can't help but think she looks like a human rather than a star, even after cleaning herself up. Her hair is tangled and sticking up in some places, and her clothes have been stained with dirt and old blood. Levy makes a mental note to have Natsu help her find some new clothes. With everything that's happened and what he's discovered, she doubts he's thought about such things now.
"Hi," Levy greets warmly, wincing a little when her body aches as Lucy wraps her in a tight hug. Levy returns it, regardless of the pain. She's relieved to see that she and Natsu, who's hovering a few steps inside the room, watching them with wide eyes, are alright, even after everything that had happened. Heavy shadows linger beneath Natsu's eyes, but he still offers her a friendly, familiar crooked smile.
Levy smiles back. "It's good to see all of you got out relatively unscathed," she says sincerely, and then yelps when Lucy pinches her cheek pointedly, looking angry.
"We were worried sick," she hisses, glowering. "What were you thinking? Why didn't you tell me something was wrong?"
Levy shoos her hand away with a huff, wincing as she rubs her sore cheek. "I didn't know. I mean, there was a demon that came after Metalicana and I, but I didn't know what he'd done until it happened." She falters a little, reminded of what Grandeeney had told her. "Anyways, where do we stand in the war? And are you okay?" she adds nervously, worried about Natsu. She looks at him as she asks her second question, eyes wide.
"I'm fine," he answers truthfully, though the dark look that flashes over her friend's face tells her otherwise. He's not okay with what he's been told, and he doesn't know what to do about it. Still, he forces himself to smile at her, all teeth. "And we're not any worse off than we were before. Maybe a little better, even. I guess whatever Zeref thought about me put him off guard. Not only did we win, Igneel and those with him pushed the demons back and regained some ground."
Levy's smile is bright and full of relief. The success would help with her bargain with the stars - and encourage hope in those fighting the demons. "Good," she murmurs. "And is Metalicana feeling better?" she asks, turning her face to Gajeel, who is watching her intently.
Gajeel grunts and scowls at the mention of his father. "He's fine. Bastard's been complainin' about pain and stuff, but we know he's just screwing around. Went back to the front lines this morning." Levy's smile fades slightly. She wishes she could have said farewell to the iron dragon who'd helped her. But, rather than saying anything about it, she pushes her sadness to the back of her mind.
Instead, she looks briefly at Natsu, at Lucy, who has suddenly started speaking with one another. Their heads are bent near one another's, and Lucy has a small smile dancing on her lips. Even if they don't win their war, Levy thinks, her stomach twisting. She's done something good with the bargain she's been allowed to present to the Spirit King. Even if nothing comes from the other part of her bargain, she's managed to give someone else a little piece of happiness.
Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, Levy turns her mind onto happier, easier matters to discuss. She inquires about the state of Hargeon, and they fill her in. The port has been torn to shreds, but remains proudly standing after the attack, with not a single demon lingering in its nooks and crannies. The death toll had somehow been kept low despite the number of civilians caught in the attack. People were even seen partying in the streets to celebrate the victory, Lucy tells Levy.
Levy is happier than she can say to hear that the town will recover in strength and spirit. The guilds that have gathered here are the reason it stays standing, people say. Even now, Natsu claims they're going to campaign for a day to honor the guilds once the war is over, as well as their commitment to the people they protect.
The rest of the day passes similarly. When Lucy, Natsu, and Gajeel have gone, summoned to speak with the guildmasters that have gathered in place of Igneel and the stars, Droy and Jet stop by to check in. Levy greets them with a cry, and the trio spend the next few hours together, chatting until Levy can no longer keep her eyes open.
The next few days are peaceful. Levy rests often, too tired to stay awake. Before long, however, she's capable of a little more. She can walk across the room on her own, further with help. She can stay awake for longer than an hour or two, and even has begun helping with a few things that are asked of her by Makarov when he visits. Levy had cried when she'd seen him again, grateful that he was alright.
Levy's doing just that, examining the paperwork spread on the bed before her, when there's a knock on the door. "Come in," Levy calls without looking up, biting her lip. She moves a paper aside, troubled. She'd been asked to help distribute supplies, but it's not looking good. Hargeon is low, and getting lower every day. Someone will have to find a way to expand their supplies.
"Hello, Levy."
Levy stiffens, snapping her head up. "Leo," she says warily, shoving all of the papers aside. "Hi. Are you here because-"
"Yes." Leo stands in the doorway with a forced smile on his face. Levy can tell that what he's come to say will likely be anything but fun, so she waves him in and requests that he close the door. Her heart is racing now. If Leo's here, it means he has the Spirit King's asking price for her bargain - or a complete denial.
Leo walks over, and Levy gathers the papers to make room. When he's perched on the bed, comfortable as he can be given the circumstances, he says, "The Spirit King has considered your proposal and has come up with the terms. I'm here to present them to you, though I suspect you've already gathered this."
Levy's lips twitch, a weak smile materializing on her face. She loses it almost immediately when he doesn't smile back. He looks grim - nervous even. Levy can't say she ever thought she'd see that. Leo debates what to say next, how to phrase the Spirit King's demands. Finally, he speaks again.
"In return for the continued assistance of the stars in the war against the demons as well as the condition that Lucy be allowed to see Natsu for a day every month until the end of the time, the Spirit King asks that you give what he considers to be the equivalent. Until the war's end, you are to live among the stars. In this life and every life thereafter, for this is not a war that will be won within this century, you will be found and brought to the celestial realm. You will not be given the right to visit this world. You will not be given the right to see those who may or may not visit ours. You will not be allowed to communicate with those of this world."
Levy's lips press together into a hard line, and something in her gut twists with horror. "That's...that can't be considered a fair bargain," she whispers to him. "It can't be."
"I merely deliver the Spirit King's words," Leo says gently. He touches her shoulder. "In his eyes, it is more than fair; you ask him to risk the lives of his people in a war that is no longer a danger to his realm. He will lose people he cares for, his subjects, in this war. You have a day to decide. Tomorrow, at this time, I will return for your answer. Discuss it with whomever you wish, but remember, if you deny this bargain...you will not be given the chance again, and the stars are to immediately withdraw. Lucy included."
Her stomach flips and she feels sick immediately. Now, the possibilities have become a reality. "Can I bargain? Am I allowed to bargain with the Spirit King?"
"No." His voice is soft, his face full of grief. "I'm sorry, Levy. His offer is final."
Levy sucks in a nervous breath. "Okay," she whispers, and she swallows thickly. "Thank you. I'll see you tomorrow with my answer then."
Leo inclines his head and vanishes, likely to return to the Spirit King and inform him that the message had been delivered. When he's gone, Levy runs her hands down her face and takes a shaken breath. Such a steep cost, but… She knows the war isn't going well. The dragons have lost ground again, and the demons have torn Fiore apart in the north until nothing but death and ruin lingers, making what's left of Magnolia look like child's play. She's read as such in the reports she's looked through.
Igneel, she decides. Igneel's her best option for figuring out what she should do. She ignores the pain that lingers in her legs as she swings to her feet and briskly crosses the room. She swings the door open, intending to hunt down someone who can find Natsu for her since Natsu can find Igneel - and promptly runs into someone preparing to enter the room. She bounces off their chest, and a bark of laughter tells her immediately who it is. "Gajeel," she huffs, rubbing her sore nose, and his grin is particularly wicked. It fades a moment later when he sees her pale face.
It's replaced with a scowl, and he huffs at her. "What's wrong?"
"Leo brought back the Spirit King's side of the bargain," she tells him, deciding she doesn't need to bother lying or hiding it from him. Why bother? They're screwed whether she takes the bargain or not. Her heart suddenly swells with agonizing pain, and she realizes that this must be what Natsu and Lucy felt like when they had been separated. Should she agree to this bargain with the stars, then she will never see Gajeel again.
But if she doesn't…
He can die, along with everyone else.
She takes a deep breath as he cocks a pierced brow, clearly waiting to hear what her side of the bargain consists of. Rather than answering, she shyly reaches up, nearly standing on her toes as her fingers slide up into his wild mane of black hair. He's narrowed his eyes warily, recognizing this distraction for what it is, but can't seem to bring himself to stop her as she draws his face to hers.
The kiss is sweet at first, light. No more than a soft brush. But after ensuring that Gajeel is content with it - more than content, for the sound he utters is one of uttermost pleasure - she deepens the kiss. Her touch becomes bruising, and her fingers knot in his hair, trapping him to her as best as she can. Gajeel's fingers skim over her cheekbones as he cups her face between his hands, his body towering over hers as he leans into it.
They linger like this for what seems like eons and mere seconds before Gajeel pulls back and puffs a soft breath over her mouth. "You ain't foolin' me, shrimp."
"I know." Her voice is hoarse, cracking even with two words. Her fingers slide away from their place, trailing down his shoulders. She fingers the armor there, heart sinking. He's been fighting, or intends to join the fight. Or, something tells her, it's merely a precaution. Hargeon had been attacked, after all, and many people wear armor every day now. Eventually, she slides her hands down until she can simply step into an embrace, wrapping her arms around his waist.
Gajeel freezes, unsure of what's happening. Levy knows he's confused. They've mentioned their fondness, but neither are entirely sure about how deep that affection goes, or what to do about it in a time of war. That doesn't include the fact that they are so very different in every possible way. Forget the fact that he's a dragon and she is human, a mage. Maybe that should have made this decision easier.
But it is Gajeel she finds herself most distressed about leaving behind should she agree. Not her family in Fairy Tail, who she knows would mourn the loss but accept that she was, at the very least, alive. Not Natsu, her friend, or the dragons she's grown to love living among. No. It is Gajeel she worries about leaving behind. Gajeel, who she knows she will not be allowed to see again. Dragons feel deeply, and she worries that leaving him behind will hurt him more than he'd ever let her know.
Gajeel's fingers rest gently on her hips. "The fuck does the King want?"
"Me," she murmurs. "I would live among the stars until the war ends. In this life and the next, according to Leo. He doesn't think the war will end in this century. The demons are too strong for that, I guess, and even then...look how much ground we've lost." She tightens her arms around him. "I don't know what to do. I know it's better for everyone if I do it. I know I'm the one who suggested it. But…"
His fingers are bruising in their grip now. His voice rumbles with a snarl. "Bargain. It's a bargain, not an offer."
"But it's not. The Spirit King doesn't bargain." She takes a shaken breath. "I have until tomorrow. If I choose to not go, the stars are to immediately withdraw from the war and take Lucy with them. I can't do that to Natsu. Not after...not after what he found out. He needs Lucy."
Gajeel's quiet for a long moment, though she can practically feel the temper that broils beneath his skin. "You sound like you've already decided."
Levy exhales sharply, a bitter laugh in her mouth. "Maybe. I don't know. I'd like to talk with Igneel if I can. I don't think he'll be able to help me, but it's worth a try, right?" She pulls back to peer up at his face. It looks like it's been carved from stone. "I don't want to," she tells him sincerely. "But look me in the eye and tell me that we can win without the stars' help, Gajeel."
He can't. He immediately averts his gaze from hers, looking rather pissed about it. "I'll contact Igneel," he mutters, and her heart misses a beat. She doesn't like the look on his face, the sound of his voice. He's not angry. Rather, there's something else that she can't puzzle out hidden beneath the mask of a temper. "Get back in bed," he adds. He suddenly grins mockingly at her. It's forced, fake. Levy can tell as he flicks her forehead sharply, making her grunt and rub the spot with a furrowed brow.
"Gajeel," she says, but he's already pulled away entirely, briskly turning on his heel. She watches him leave with distress.
Levy is unable to follow him.
Levy finds she's reluctant to tell very many about the decision she's deciding to make. She immediately decides against telling Lucy and Natsu. She doesn't want to involve them, getting the feeling that at least one will blame themselves for making Levy think this is a potential solution to their personal problems. She doesn't want to tell Makarov either. He's been the grandfather she'd craved as a child for so long that she doesn't want to hurt him - or any of her guild. She definitely doesn't tell Droy and Jet when they stop in to see her.
Igneel, however, she tells. When the dragon arrives near sunset, having come as quickly as he could upon receiving word from Gajeel of what Levy wants to discuss with him, it's a grumpy Metalicana who helps her out to visit with him. Metalicana leaves them with a warning look in Levy's direction at Igneel's request. Levy isn't quite sure what he's warning her about though.
Without hesitation, sensing that Igneel will likely need to return to the front line of the war as quickly as possible, Levy barely spares him a greeting before laying out the bargain she's offered and been offered. Igneel listens with rapt attention, green eyes piercing her as he watches her closely. When she's finished, his lips pull back from his large teeth in distaste.
"The stars," he rumbles irritably, "have still not forgiven us for what took place with Lucy and have chosen to take out their ire on you." Smoke curls irritably around his nostrils, and Levy watches it with interest, finding her stomach twisting with fear and frustration. She doesn't want to do this. She really doesn't want to. But she sees the old and fresh wounds that lace Igneel's crimson hide. She sees the exhaustion that makes him weave in place. Who knows how long he's been physically fighting?
"Do not feel," Igneel continues, focusing his green eyes back on her with a shockingly gentle look, "that you need to do this. If the stars withdraw, it's unlikely we will win. That is true. But 'unlikely' does not mean 'for sure.' There are other things we've not yet considered for this war. Ancient magic that will be bad for us, but will win us the war in the long run."
"What kind of ancient magic?" demands Levy, suddenly interested.
Igneel shifts in place, uncomfortable with this shift in direction regarding the topic at hand. "Before dragons and mages and humans, there were gods," he says simply. "The hoard I claim as mine on Tenrou Island is filled with old tomes from those times. They were chaotic, filled with danger and violence. Humans knew no peace, and they were enslaved by gods, just as dragons were. But the gods were powerful. And their magic is just as powerful as they were. There are spells that could unravel the flesh from the bones of the demons we fight while simultaneously doing the same to the caster. Some spells could eliminate an army so long as it also eliminates your own."
Levy's fingers twist together, her mind racing. "We could win this war with a spell like that."
"And lose ourselves in the process. These spells are a last resort, Levy. But we are certainly nearing the time in which we need to consider them." Igneel sighs heavily, suddenly creasing his large brow. "I cannot give you advice regarding what you should do with the stars' bargain. Take it, leave it. The stars' help would certainly do what we need it to, but it doesn't guarantee us a victory. But I cannot say that Natsu enduring such loss is something I wish to see again."
"He loves Lucy. And he needs her more than ever," says Levy softly, wondering how much Igneel knows. She searches the dragon's gaze and finds it full of sorrow and guilt. She knows then that he is just as aware as she is of his connections to Zeref. "Especially now," she says softly.
"Especially now," Igneel agrees quietly with a massive sigh.
Levy bites her lip, thinking over their options for now. "I think," she says thoughtfully and slowly, searching Igneel's gaze to judge what his thoughts on the matter are, "that we ought to look through those spells, Igneel. Before we even truly need to, because we don't know how much time we have before the war takes a nasty turn."
Igneel knows what she is asking and looks uncomfortable, even as he says, "Can you read the language of the gods? You're renowned for your translation abilities, Levy, but that language is older than that of the dragons."
Levy's voice is cool and calculated, the shining example of professionalism, as she requests Igneel attempt to draw out one of the letters or characters that make up the language. He does so, and Levy sweeps her eyes over the large sketch in the sand, her eyes flicking up and down its length. "It would be difficult, but I can learn this language. It's similar in build and this looks like one of your own words. I would need time, but…" She takes a deep breath and looks back at Igneel. "How much time before the turning point in the war?"
He knows she doesn't mean in their favor. "Weeks. Maybe a month or two if we're lucky."
"And if the stars continue to offer their assistance?"
Igneel exhales loudly. "It would only be a few extra weeks, if things continue as they are."
"A few extra weeks mean everything in the life of a mortal," Levy says confidently, cracking her knuckles. "I will bargain with the Spirit King. Again. Even if Leo says he won't, I'll make him an offer he can't refuse. The King thinks this war will last centuries, but that's definitely not going to happen. But in order to do this, I need permission to go find those spells and begin translating them Igneel."
In other words, she needed permission to go to his beloved hoard.
Igneel stiffens, instinctually recoiling from the idea. A snarl appears on his maw. And then, he forces himself to relax. "Touch nothing else, Levy McGarden." His voice is laced with a growl of warning. Friend or not, she'll be dead if she so much as thinks of stealing from him. "Natsu knows where my hoard is. He can show you. But only the two of you will enter it. Gajeel and Lucy do not get to know where it is."
A smile quirks the corners of her lips at the fact that he automatically assumes that Gajeel will be with them. She chooses not to comment on that, instead inclining her head. "You have my word, Igneel."
Igneel nods sharply. "Fetch Natsu. I wish to speak with him before I leave." Igneel sounds tired then, and Levy gets the feeling he will be talking with Natsu about something particularly tiresome. More than likely, about the fact that Natsu is a demon and now that the knowledge is more at risk of getting out, something will need to be done.
Levy agrees to do so and turns to leave. As if sensing his presence is once again needed, Metalicana appears in the trees, his red eyes flashing warily when Levy trips, realizing she is simply exhausted. "You need to rest when we return," he warns her, and Levy shakes her head.
"No," she says confidently, "I need to tell Natsu Igneel wishes to speak with him, and then I need to start planning. I need to speak with Lucy. She knows the stars better than anyone else, and I think she can help me." Levy refuses to tell Lucy about what she's tried to attain for her. Lucy will blame herself for the severity of the bargain's requirements. "If the stars and the Spirit King will bargain with anyone, it's Lucy."
There's blood dripping from her nose by the time Levy and Metalicana make it back to Hargeon's center, and she knows she ought to stop and rest, but Levy decides there's no time left for resting as she has been. The world is at war with demons, and if the demons aren't resting, then why should she?
Metalicana looks at her with disapproval as he leaves her at a table in the middle of Fairy Tail's camp to start her plotting. She's gathered parchments, pressing a cloth to her nose to staunch the blood flow, and is scribbling thoughts and ideas out with a quill. Metalicana has promised to find Lucy for her, and has decided to take over finding Natsu. She's sure he'll send Gajeel her way if they come across one another.
Levy's gaze darts back and forth across parchment as she scrawls down another idea. She is exhausted, and feels her eyes drooping, but she forces them open, barely able to breathe. She is determined to wait to rest until after she has discussed this with Lucy. Then she can sleep.
Luckily, Lucy doesn't make her wait very long.
"Levy!" Levy looks up and finds Lucy weaving through Fairy Tail's camp, searching for her. Levy waves and calls back to snag her attention, smiling faintly. Within a few moments, Lucy stands beside her, golden hair cascading around her shoulders in a beautiful golden sheet. She drops to sit beside Levy on the bench, panting a little as if she'd been running. "You shouldn't be up. I mean, look at you, you're-"
Levy quickly cuts Lucy off. She likes Lucy, but she's heard enough of people telling her that she needs to rest. There will be time to rest if her plan works. Her eyes flash with determination as she says, "I need your help. I need you to make the Spirit King listen to a counteroffer to the one he made me."
Lucy immediately falters, her face pale. "Levy...he doesn't bargain. He makes an offer, and either it's accepted or not." She hesitates and then asks almost frantically, "What did he demand from you? What did you ask?"
"For keeping the stars in this war," says Levy, choosing to tell Lucy about the other request she's made. "He demanded that I stay with the stars until the war's end, through the end of my life and any I might have thereafter. I was given a day to decide." Lucy stares at her with sorrowful horror, as if she thinks Levy's accepting this offer and that's why she's been called for. Levy pushes on, eyes flashing. "But I thought of something. Igneel made a comment about these spells…" She goes on to explain to Lucy what Igneel's told her about those spells and tomes, hidden away in his hoard, and when Levy finishes, Lucy's lost.
"Why are you telling me all this?" demands Lucy. "It doesn't change the fact that you're running out of time before Leo appears to hear your answer."
"Because the Spirit King loves you," Levy insists. "You're beloved by the stars, their King, their entire realm. You're Lucy, the one who gave up everything she was for them. They will listen to you. The Spirit King will listen to you."
Lucy bites her lip, uncertain. "Maybe. I'm still his subject, just as every other star is though. But what is it you're so insistent he hears from me?"
Levy hands Lucy her parchment, eyes glimmering with hope. Lucy reads through it with a sharp eye, paying attention to every word on the page. When she finishes, she snaps her gaze to Levy's, unable to believe what she's seeing. "You're...you're kidding, right? You'd risk this?"
"It gives us all what we want," Levy says firmly.
"Not if you lose. Levy, you're insane." Lucy tugs anxiously at a lock of hair, her eyes round with worry. "It's one thing to bargain with the Spirit King, but to try and convince him of something like this…"
"Tell me it wouldn't work." Levy slaps her hands on the table sharply. "Look me in the eye and tell me the stars couldn't survive something like this. The stars are ancient - older than anything else to have existed in this world. Older than dragons, older than magic, older than gods. Tell me this doesn't at least have a chance of working."
Lucy exhales sharply, frustrated, but cannot meet Levy's eye. After a long moment of sitting in silence, she finally meets her gaze again and says quietly, "Is Gajeel aware?"
Levy thinks it interesting that so many people are concerned about how much Gajeel knows regarding her decisions, and yet… She swallows thickly and admits, "No. I'm going to tell him whenever Metalicana can send him this way. Honestly, I was hoping he would have been here around the same time you were. I'll have to tell him separately, I guess. After you leave if you agree." She takes Lucy's hand and squeezes it as she begs, "Please, Lucy. I can't use magic anymore - I'll lose my family and guild should we survive this war. Let me do something worthwhile. Something that will make them remember me, even after I'm gone."
Lucy's eyes soften. "Levy," she says softly, "I don't think you'd lose anything. Certainly not your family." She took a deep breath. "I'll do it. But...you understand that your counteroffer regarding what might happen should this not work will mean that the fate you're trying to avoid will be a permanent one, right? If this doesn't work, you will be taken to live with the stars and you will never see anyone here in this realm again."
Levy lifts her chin and meets Lucy gaze with a determined look. "It will work. It has to, or there might not be a world for us to live in regardless."
"I know," admits Lucy, sighing softly. She looks over her shoulder when she hears a sharp call of Levy's name. Levy looks back, too, and winces when she sees Gajeel stalking towards them, looking aggravated. Levy exhales sharply. She doesn't know how this conversation will go, but it won't be a good one. She braces herself for what's coming as Lucy decides to wait before heading out, likely because Natsu isn't back yet. Levy is willing to bet that Lucy will let Natsu know where she's going before she even thinks of leaving.
Gajeel comes to an abrupt halt in front of Levy, towering over her as she remains seated at the bench. She doesn't think she could stand even if she wanted to. Nevertheless, she smiles faintly in greeting at him as he grunts, "Metalicana said you needed something."
Levy winces. Clearly, he's not at all happy with their earlier conversation and has spiraled into a rather black mood since he'd left her. "I'm bargaining," she says simply, and something unreadable flickers through his eyes. She likes to think it might be hope. She tells him everything she's told Lucy, admitting that while the cons aren't all that great, it's certainly better than either rejecting or accepting the Spirit King's offer.
Gajeel still isn't happy with the result, but he grudgingly admits, "Might work. Might."
"It's the best shot we've got at getting what we need," Levy says confidently. She turns to Lucy, who hums her uncertainty as she finally pulls herself to her feet. She brushes herself off, troubled.
"I'll speak with the Spirit King, but I can't guarantee anything, Levy," says Lucy softly. "I've never heard of him altering such an offer. Usually, he knows what he wants and he states as much. He will take yes or no for an answer, but no maybes. And if this fails…"
"The stars go home immediately, and we're left to deal with this all on our own," finishes Levy. "I know."
"I can't leave without seeing Natsu, but as soon as I have, I'll go." Lucy gives the pair a final, faint smile. "Just in case, I'll say farewell here. I don't know what will happen next, but...you've both been very good to me. And to Natsu. And if things go wrong for us all, then please continue to take care of him. I think this will hurt him more than the last time, especially with what he's discovered recently. If anything, he'll need help more than ever. So please, for me, watch over him in my place?"
"You have my word," Levy says fiercely. Even Gajeel inclines his head a fraction. With a final smile and a press of her hand over Levy's shoulder, Lucy turns and walks away, chin held high as she considers how to word Levy's request to the Spirit King. Levy watches her go anxiously, stomach twisting. There's no going back after this. If the Spirit King agrees, then she will have to follow through on her offer, whether it be victory or potential defeat.
Gajeel doesn't move, as she anticipates. Instead, he lingers beside her quietly for a few minutes, as if lost in thought as Levy gathers her parchments and debates how the hell she's going to walk back to the bed she's been staying in. She wipes lingering blood from her nose and wrinkles it delicately, debating if it will bleed again. She decides it won't and is relieved.
After what seems like far too long, Gajeel says, "How the hell did you get all the way out here?"
It's not the question she's been expecting, if she's being perfectly honest. Levy pauses in neatly tapping her parchments on the table to even them out and says, "I had to speak with Igneel and Metalicana helped me out. He then helped me over here and then went to get you and Lucy, and to tell Natsu that Igneel needed to speak with him." She takes a deep breath as she sets her parchments aside, braces her hands on the table, and slowly lifts herself up to her feet - only for Gajeel's hands to fly out awkwardly when her knees buckle and she slams hard onto the bench, wheezing in shock.
It's humiliating, she thinks as she sits there for a moment, simply trying to catch her breath and pretending that there aren't dots in her eyes, blinding her. Humiliating. She shouldn't be so easily downed. Especially not after everything else she's survived. Yet, here she is, unable to even stand up on her own.
"I'm fine," Levy snaps before Gajeel can say anything when he opens his mouth. "I'm just...I need a moment. I'll go back to bed on my own."
Gajeel rolls his eyes. "Don't be stupid, Levy, you ain't gonna make it all the way back without help." They glare at one another for a few moments, trying to wait one another out. Finally, Levy sighs and gives in, grumbling as she mutters that she'll willingly accept his help.
Rolling his eyes, Gajeel steps forward and with surprisingly gentle hands, takes her elbow and lets her grip his forearm. She leans heavily on him as she rises again, her lips pressed into a hard, frustrated line. He says nothing about the matter, only goes to work on assisting her in slowly heading back towards the room she'd been taking shelter in since waking up.
"You know," she says quietly as they edge along. She knows he wants to just throw over his shoulder and get a move on, but he still gives her the chance to go along as best as she can, even as another headache throbs in her skull, warning her about doing too much too quickly. "If...if this plan works out, I won't be any better off when this war ends, and Fairy Tail-"
"Ain't gonna let you go," he interrupts. He looks at her incredulously, crimson eyes filled to the brim with that frustration that's lingered in him for some time now. When she meets his gaze, he stops walking entirely and simply looks at her. "Levy, after all the stuff you've told and showed me, all the stuff I've seen with this guild of yours, they won't kick you out just 'cause you can't use magic anymore. You've still got other skills. 'Sides, they raised you, didn't they? Magic or not, they're family, and family doesn't just disappear because you've lost a sliver of what makes you who you are."
Levy's lips part in surprise, and she's astonished by what he's told her. Levy recalls telling him about so many things regarding hope and pain, grief and love. And here he is, giving her similar lectures. She exhales softly after a moment and murmurs, "You'll be there, too, right? After this all ends. I don't think I could be as happy as I was before I went to Tenrou if I wasn't being insulted left and right for my height."
He snickers and it reassures her more than any word could have, a feat only Gajeel is capable of. He ruffles her blue hair with a softened look. "You can't get rid of me," he says simply. Perhaps it's not the most beautiful, romantic phrases, nor is it the most wonderful thing she's ever heard. But coming from Gajeel, she knows that it might be the most important thing she's ever heard.
A knock on the door drags Levy out of some much needed rest, but she's not upset whatsoever when she sees who it is. "Hey, Natsu," she yawns as he slides into the room. There's dim lighting thanks to the setting sun, and as she begins to wake up a little more, she hungrily eyes the plate of food he's brought with him. A hint of a smile tugs at his mouth as he offers it to her knowingly.
He's quiet as she takes it into her lap and begins to scarf it down immediately, watching absent-mindedly. She snatches glances at him out of the corner of her eye, taking in everything. It's impossible to miss the heavy bruises that rest beneath exhausted, haunted onyx eyes, or the way his vivid pink hair seems to lay limply around his head. He simply looks tired. There's no sign of the easily entertained, always smiling man she knows him as. He's simply defeated.
So, she quietly says, "I want you to know that you have a lot of people to lean on, Natsu, myself and Lucy included. Whatever you need, we'll be there."
"I know." Natsu takes a deep breath. "It's why I spoke with Luce before she left." Levy stills, confused, and he smiles ruefully as he admits, "I altered the offer you made when she told me about it. Igneel told us what you did. A day every month. It's not a lot, but it's more than I ever thought I'd get whenever the stars were done helping out, whether it was before or after the war. You did what you could and neither of us will ever forget that."
Levy flushes, averting her gaze. "You're my friend," she says simply. "I didn't want you to suffer." He snorts softly, smoke curling around his nose, and Levy falters before asking, "How did you alter my offer?"
"Instead of you, they get me," he says simply. "The demon Zeref wants most and the person they probably hate more than anyone else except Zeref. They won't kill me; I'm too valuable and I don't know if they even could. We don't know if they'd try and keep me away from Lucy, but if it means staying with her, I don't think it's so bad at all."
Lucy's stomach twists with horror at the mere idea, yet…
She can see the light that's suddenly returned to his eyes. He smiles broadly at the mere thought of being able to see Lucy every day. If this deal was to go bad, then they'd still be together, even if it means never seeing the rest of them ever again.
Levy's smile is sincere when she takes his hand and gives it a squeeze. "Either way, whether it does or doesn't work, you'd get to see her."
He nods firmly. "I told Igneel about it before he left. He's not overly happy about it, but I think he understood."
"The dragons are smart, and Igneel knows you well," Levy says confidently. "I have no doubt in my mind that he'll be happy as long as you're happy, Natsu. And no matter where you go, you'll always be Fairy Tail." She knows it's precisely what everyone else has been trying to tell her, and Levy knows within her heart that it is true. No matter what happens, she will always be a member of the Fairy Tail family, just as Natsu will.
Natsu's bright grin is as reassuring as the dawn of a bright new day.
When Leo returns, his face is unreadable. He appears beside Levy in her room, making her jump, but she manages to stifle her screech of surprise. Mostly because Gajeel is there, and she doesn't feel like listening to his teasing for the foreseeable future. Levy scrambles to sit on the edge of the bed, eyes round, and Leo searches her expression with mild amusement.
"The Spirit King," he begins, "wishes for me to tell you that he thinks he will welcome you as a star someday, regardless of this bargain, simply for your clever thinking and sincere love for your friends. He wishes for me to say that it has been a long time - since Lucy - that he's found a human to be worth his time."
Levy's face blossoms red, but her mind is racing as Gajeel snorts loudly, amused. By the way he's talking-
Leo straightens. "Levy McGarden, the Spirit King's final answer is this: in exchange for continued alliance between the stars and the dragons and humans, he will claim Natsu Dragneel as one of his own while retaining your request regarding Natsu be allowed to visit with Lucy at least once a month in this realm. As such, Natsu will remain in this realm until the end of the war. Additionally, your suggestion to allow stars to attempt to use the magic of the gods has been approved. When the time comes, we will do our best to assist in ending this war." When he finishes his formal message, he winks and lets his lips curve into a broad grin. "Congratulations. A bargain has been struck with the Spirit King - though I do worry for Natsu in the long run," he admits.
Gajeel grunts. "Claimed as one of the stars or not, we hear word that he's in a bad spot-"
"And the dragons will start another war, I'm aware," Leo sighs, running a hand through his hair. "Contrary to your beliefs, however, we aren't quite as oblivious or blind. We understand that Natsu had nothing to do with the decisions made on Zeref's part. He is, however, his brother, and it only concerns the Spirit King that Natsu might defect to that side of the war. I'm not saying he will," he says hastily when both glare viciously at him for the suggestion. "Only that the Spirit King worries about it. Anyways, I best be off. I have work to do. Will you let Lucy and Natsu know? I'm sure they'll be pleased and worried about the results." Leo pauses, and then adds, "When you go to look through the gods' spells, ensure that you consider Natsu in this. He is a demon, and he may be capable of magic the rest of us are not." And then, Leo vanishes.
When he's gone, a smile creeps across Levy's face. "I did it," she breathed. "I bargained with the Spirit King." And while she's very displeased that Natsu has decided to take her place, likely something that might end badly in the long run…
She can stay. In this realm, with Gajeel and all of the others. When she glances at Gajeel for his opinion, he looks more relaxed than he's been since she first brought up the idea of the bargain. She offers him a bright smile and says, "Looks like you're stuck with me after all, Gajeel."
He rolls his eyes, even as a smile tugs fondly at his mouth. "Shut up, shorty. Go to sleep. We're leavin' bright and early." He rocks to his feet, likely intending to track down the very two they'd been instructed to keep updated regarding the state of the war. Levy is willing to bet he'll likely inform Makarov and some other guildmasters, too, and that Leo will tell Igneel the good news. Not that Igneel will be too excited to hear of Natsu going to live among the stars.
But he'll have Lucy, thinks Levy.
And Lucy will ensure that even if they only see one another intermittently…
He will never feel alone.
Levy knows that there's a problem from the moment Gajeel slams into the sand on Tenrou Island's beach. No, she amends. That's a lie. She knows there's a problem from the moment Natsu catches her as she slides down the sharp metallic plates that make up Gajeel's thick draconic hide, because there's a grim look on Natsu's face as he retreats a few steps back, Lucy with him. They all stare up at Gajeel as he pauses, considering. He gives a shake, like one of the many stray dogs Levy's seen wandering the streets of Magnolia, as if he's trying to shake those thick plates loose.
Nothing happens.
It takes only a moment longer for Levy to realize what the problem is, and her breath catches nervously in her throat as Gajeel attempts a second time, snarling loudly enough to send birds in the next mile or so scattering into the sky. He shakes harder this time, and at last, accompanied by sighs of relief from all of those present, his body shifts and shrinks, allowing him to return to a humanoid appearance. But he looks exhausted, and he says the moment he's capable, "Not doing it again."
Levy breathes heavily through her nose in relief. While in either form, Gajeel is still Gajeel, she can't necessarily enjoy his company in the same way if he's stuck as a massive, multi-ton dragon.
Natsu shifts Levy with care, not bothering to put her down, and Levy finds that she's annoyed they're not even letting her attempt to walk as the group sets off, intent on finding Igneel's hoard. "Levy and I'll go track down some stuff," he tells them. "You guys go find the others that are still here and tell them how the war's going. Wendy'll want to hear about Grandeeney."
Neither Gajeel nor Lucy are all too pleased to be told what to do, but agree nonetheless. Levy smiles brightly at them and waves farewell as, grumbling, Gajeel shoos Levy towards the center of the island. When they're gone, Levy demands, "So you're going to put me down now, right? It's getting really old, you know. Being carried."
"Nope." Natsu flashes her a smirk as he starts forward, weaving through thick trees with ease, bypassing certain areas that Levy is absolutely confident belong to dragons who wouldn't be too pleased with them if they were to set foot on those territories. Regardless of how long the dragons have been away, fighting in a war, it's the last thing they want to do.
As they walk, Levy considers a few things. "Do you think you'll be able to read any of the scrolls, tomes, whatever they are?"
Natsu's happy-go-lucky attitude vanishes immediately and his face grows hard. "I don't know," he says shortly and curtly. His sharp eyes dart to her face for a moment before looking ahead once more. She isn't blind though; she sees the whirlwind of emotions that race over his expression. Gently, she touches his arm.
"Natsu," she says quietly, "nothing's changed, you know. I don't know how many people know now-"
"You, Gajeel, Lucy, and some of the dragons," he interrupts, and she nods, noting that.
"Alright, then us. Not a lot. But I know that those of us who do know don't look at you any differently. You're still Natsu, a member of the Fairy Tail guild and a half-dragon who Igneel trusts enough to send to offer hands of friendship to humans he knows nothing about. If Igneel believes in you, if Lucy does, then believe in yourself. Zeref wants you, yes, but he also fails to realize that you're your own person."
Natsu stops to stare at her for a few moments, face unreadable. Finally, he says, "I knew there was a reason I dragged you into Fairy Tail."
Levy cracks a small grin. "What, it's not because you saw a kid on the streets who needed some help?" That was certainly exactly what she'd been. A child, lost in the streets after living with a mother who relished in suffering, whether it be her own or her daughter's.
"Well, that, too." He's walking again, and Levy wipes her forehead of sweat, hating the heat after being in Hargeon for so long. While warm and humid, it has nothing on Tenrou Island. It doesn't help that Natsu, who practically dwells in fire, is the one helping her along. "But you're just...like some literal fairy, you know? At least, from what fairies are always said to be like."
"And what are fairies supposed to be like?" Levy blinks up at him with gentle amusement. She can't figure out if she wants to take this as a compliment or not; how far she'd come though, she supposed, from being told that being a mage made her a witch to someone like Natsu commenting that she resembled fairies. "Good people, I hope."
Smoke curls in her face, and Levy waves it off. A small, sincere smile curls over Natsu's lips as he says, "Yeah, they're good people. The legends Igneel used to tell me say that they were small, clever creatures, who did everything they could to help others. They were kind, incredibly kind, and introduced the idea of magic to humans, who eventually became mages."
Levy's breath catches in her throat. "And you think I'm like one of these fairies?" It makes her want to cry, she realizes. It might be the nicest thing anyone has ever said to her. Of course, she'd thought that about Gajeel's compliment that morning when they'd left, though it hadn't been nearly so eloquent. His gruff comment of "You look better," had, Levy assumes, translated into something along the lines of "You look good today."
Well, Levy hopes.
Natsu nods, ducking around a particularly old, thick tree trunk. "They even had the respect of the stars, who'd come to them for help here and there." He cocks his head to the side. "It's what made them disappear in the end. They did too well. People came to them for more and more and when they could no longer help...they were massacred, in the end, by an angry king who didn't get his way." Natsu suddenly grins at Levy. "Just don't end up like the actual fairies, okay?"
Levy hums her agreement and instead focuses on the massive cavern that has suddenly opened up in the ground before them. "This is...this is huge," she breathes, barely able to comprehend the sheer size of the cavern. It stretches wide and far across the island - so far, she doesn't think even Makarov could jump it with his magic.
"It's even bigger below," says Natsu, which worries Levy. They're running out of time to find something that will win the war.
So, she sucks in a determined breath, shifts her grip on Natsu's neck as he hoists her up a bit, and says, "Let's get to work."
A miracle has taken place and I have UPDATED. I'm so sorry for the long wait, and thank you so much for your patience. This chapter was trying for me for some reason. Anyhow, I hope you enjoyed and look forward to the next chapter or two. I'm aiming to end this in two chapters right now. ;)
BUT A KISS. And some drama.
Thanks to reviewers (stranger1999, Guest #1, Dragonfly2311, rao hyuga 18, Lodemai04, brooke0315, piranha pk, kaniyah1979, helloimsandy, whosaysicantbeme, and 52dreamer52!) as well as those who favorited and followed! :)