[EDITED AS OF 07/04/22]
ONE TRUE MAGIC
"Do you know what is the One True Magic?"
"Is there such a thing?"
"One True magic, also known by the term Primordial Magic... It is the most sought-after type of magic that not anyone can obtain."
"Will I be able to have it, Mama?"
"Yes, as long as you stay true to yourself. After all, It's love…"
A/N: And I'm back! Well, just to post this one! So, I'm just gonna keep this short...
This was supposed to be a two-part chaper but I decide that Chapter 7 and 7.5 can stand on their own so I made them as Chapter 7 and 8! Anyway, this chapter is within the same time frame with at the end of Chapter 5 and the whole Chapter 6!
Anyways, here it is!
CHAPTER 7: Just like the old times
LUCY
I let out a small smile when I heard boisterous laughter coming from my living room. It got me curious but I decided to check after I finished washing the dishes.
Looking down at my hands scrubbing the soap off the plates, I felt myself drift into a deep thought.
"All I can say is that I know you, you know me, we're best friends and you're my partner…"
"As for the mage part, yeah I'm a Dragon Slayer and if you're my partner, you can probably tell now what's the answer to your question..."
A thoughtful frown made its way on my face as I thought of Natsu's words from earlier.
Okay, supposed that I really am a mage wielding Star-wait no, Celestial Magic...But what happened that caused me to lose my memories? And most importantly, why didn't Aunt Anna tell me anything?
Wiping my hands dry after I transferred the newly cleaned plates to the dishwasher, I leaned on to the sink's countertop in thought then widen my eyes in realization.
Wait–Is that why Auntie urge me to go here? In Magnolia?
I looked around my apartment's kitchen. How about this apartment? If I remember correctly, Aunt Anna asked Loke to find a place for me to stay. Considering the fact that Loke knows who Natsu was, does that mean that he knows I have an amnesia or something?
The places I was told to go, Hargeon, Crocu–"Hey Luce!" I shook my head and snap out of my thoughts at the sudden call of my name.
Looking around me, I noticed Natsu leaning on the doorway, giving me a thoughtful and curious look.
"W-what is it?" Looking elsewhere besides his scrutinizing gaze, I busied myself with washing my hands once again, feeling his stare boring holes to the back of my head.
After a few seconds of silence, I suddenly felt nervous and forced myself to meet his eyes.
His dark-green, almost onyx eyes, looked at me as if he somehow knows what I'm thinking about. His heated gaze caused me to feel remnants of the warmth from the hug he gave me earlier. The only difference is that it seems much more intense and is continuously spreading throughout my body. I felt my face flush, either in embarrassment, nervousness, I don't know.
The only thing that I know is that freaking stare of his caused this abnormal rapid beating of my heart! As to why? I don't know!
To say I'm confused would be an understatement.
Suddenly, during our 'staring contest', he closed his eyes before opening them once again, eyes no longer intense as it now held a glint of eagerness. This is followed by his fanged grin that seem to have the same effect as that intense stare earlier.
Oh gosh...I really need to snap out of it!
"Well, me and Happy decided that we'll just tour you around the town tomorrow, since there's some sort of event and the mayor wanted to have a day-long festival..." I suppressed the urge to giggle at the childish expression on his face. From his reaction, its a wonder how he didn't even skip around me and state all the possible food he can eat! "For now, let's just hang out here and have some fun!" He exclaimed eagerly, turning towards the direction my living room.
Forgetting all the things that I'm thinking of earlier, I wiped my hands as I pondered about what he said.
"Sure, but I don't have any games right now since I just moved in last night..." I said, frowning slightly when I saw his grin falter but nonetheless stayed on his face. Looking away from him, I felt myself flushed and let out a soft huff before continuing, "Besides, don't you have some place to hang-out on or some friends? I don't think I'm fun enough to match your seemingly limitless energy..."
I heard him clicked his tongue in what I assumed as annoyance, which made me turn and look at him.
Shielded by his salmon fringe, his eyes appeared dark and intense as he met my gaze. His brows were furrowed and with his pursed lips almost turning into a frown, I find myself not liking that expression on his face. Disappointment.
Having met him for the first time earlier (in my point of view since apparently, I've known him for years!), I already tried to make myself cope with the spontaneous unknown feelings that I'm feeling whenever I'm around him and this is one of them.
I don't know why but there's that part of me who wants to prevent him from making those expressions. It just... unsettled me in a way that I can't explain.
Thankfully, that didn't last long.
He sighed, thinking or debating about something with himself (I guess, since I saw him nod to himself), before letting out a small smile partnered with an encouraging glint on his eyes. Eyes that seems to be much brighter and warmer compared to earlier.
"What are you talking about, Luce? You're fun! Even with no memories, I can tell that Happy likes being with you!" He exclaimed before continuing," Just like how I like to be with you! Despite the situation we're in, it doesn't change the fact that you're still Lucy!" He finishes as he took a step towards me.
My heart fluttered on his words and an urge to hug him suddenly enveloped me, so I did.
He's so warm...
"Luc–" I tightened my hold on his coat as I cut him off, "Thank you, but just stay put for a moment and don't say a word...pinkie" I heard him protest at the sudden nickname I gave him but I just giggled in response.
I know I should've replied to him in a manner that would appropriately reciprocate his heartfelt declaration, but I just felt that it's better this way. Even though I really appreciate his sentiments, it just feels wrong to respond to something I don't deserve. Sure, there's something inside me that responds strongly towards him but it doesn't change the fact that there's still many unknowns in our situation.
"NATSU! Did you tell Lucy yet?!" As soon as I heard Happy, I quickly broke the hug and scampered away from him.
I saw Natsu stayed on his spot, letting out a small chuckle when he saw how I react. I felt my face burned with embarrassment thinking that I probably looked like a small animal quickly hiding in a corner to hide.
When Happy entered the kitchen and settled down on the table, he suspiciously looked between Natsu and I.
"Oho, I smell something fishy going on here~" He teased, hiding his smirk with his paws.
"That's funny coming from you, you flying fur ball!"I exclaimed, swatting him at his antics. He flew over our head before settling down at the top of Natsu's hair, who's currently watching us with amusement.
"Natsuuu Lucy's face is so red, it's gonna blow up!" The blue feline stated once again as he hid his snickering with his paws.
Oh, that little!
I gaped, now confused if the redness of my face is from embarrassment or annoyance but I shrugged it off, stalking towards the duo.
A much louder chuckle brought me out of my thoughts.
Yup, I'm sure the flush on my face is from the mixture of both embarrassment and annoyance. I thought as soon as I saw Natsu chuckling at us.
Is this like that saying but in this situation, it's 'Like pet, like owner?' That thought slightly calmed me down, covering my mouth to prevent chortles of my own.
Not sooner after that, I found myself hiding behind my couch, breathing heavily as my hand continuously throw crumpled balls of papers at Natsu and Happy who are currently in the same situation as I am, hiding on their respective 'bases'. The crumpled paper that we're using as our 'shots', are made using the papers Natsu found somewhere in this apartment. From where? He just shrugged as an answer, telling me that it's okay to use it since the owner wanted to dispose them eventually. I read it's contents and they seemed like a part of a manuscript but I agreed on using them when I saw the large X marks drawn on them. It seems like they were uncontinued scenes or scratches of a storyline.
Shrugging my shoulders, I thought of how I'll just disposed of them properly later, of course with the help of the duo who are currently throwing crumpled paper at each other.
Happy's base is on top of my study table, using the hardbound books found there as a cover. Since it's elevated compared to the base Natsu and I chose, he's having an easy time to aim at us. But that disadvantage seems nonexistent to Natsu as he continued to change bases. I saw him first use the dining table before crawling towards a chair, on the side of a cabinet full of books, behind the pink curtain on the window, then now at the side of my bed. I giggled at reminiscing that scene, before aiming at Natsu who avoided the paper. I saw him grinned and aimed at me causing me to duck.
I know this game seems silly, since its only goal is to hit/aim and shoot paper balls at other players...but nevertheless, it brought that familiar warmth I felt when I first saw him, them.
Sounds of laughter rang all around the room. I grinned and laughed when I saw Natsu aimed at Happy who seems cornered when I also aimed at him. I saw him huffed, carrying the last crumpled paper in his position before flying to avoid our attacks. I threw my shot and he retaliated by aiming at me. I quickly docked and moved on the right to avoid it.
Suddenly noticing the unusual silence, I peered at them and giggled at the victory pose displayed by Natsu and the defeated stance of Happy crying comical tears.
"Natsuu! I thought we're partners..." I heard Happy whined and I snickered at the sheepish smile Natsu showed him.
"Sorry Happy, but a game is a game! And you know how fired up I get on games!" He said before continuing as he turned and met my gaze.
"Besides, the game isn't over yet! There's still Lucy!" At his declaration, I immediately ducked, counting my remaining shots.
Can I still survive with 3 shots? I thought before internally face palming at the thought. Seriously Lucy? With the short span of meeting them, they already influences me this much?!
A sudden crumpled paper landing at my feet caused me to be alert. He's already attacking?! Can't I just readied myself or something?! Geez, that pinkie!
Peeking at the side of the couch, I saw Happy smirking causing me to get confused and nervous at the same time. My eyes observed the possible places Natsu can use as a base but I wasn't able to find him anywhere! What the! Where is he?!
I aimed at his last location which is at the side of my bed but nerves slowly crept on me when I got no reaction.
My eyes dart at the snickering feline and frowned. Why is he laughing?
I froze, and stilled at the sudden movement I felt from couch. It's almost unnoticeable but the sudden shift made me think of something or someone balancing their weight on it!
Oh no...What if?
I tried to throw the crumpled paper just at the front of the couch, where the pillows are located and stilled at the sudden shift and movement I got from it.
From a distance, I heard Happy laughing at his place. That cat!
Suddenly hearing chuckling from the other side of the couch, I gripped the last ball of paper in my hand in tension.
"Ready to accept defeat Luce?" I heard him said, voice filled with mirth and confidence. I can almost imagine the grin plastered on his face causing me to relaxed and let out a chuckle of my own. Something about him grinning eased the tension I'm feeling, which to be honest, is something I shouldn't even feel since we're just playing a game!
"Never!" I exclaimed, quickly darting out of the back of the couch. I saw him jumped to the place where I'm hiding earlier when I peered back at him. He grinned, running after me.
Running in an alternate zig-zag direction and just aimlessly darting off across my apartment, I managed to avoid his attacks twice. I stopped and hid at the side of my bed, and grinned at him when I saw him copying me on the other side of my bed's headboard.
"Just admit defeat Luce!"
"No! YOU admit defeat!"
"Na-uh! I'm all fired up to win!"
"In that case, take this!" I exclaimed, pushing the bed with little strength I have in his direction, causing the bed to move him on almost out of balance, if not for the grip he have on the headboard.
"That's playing dirty, Lushi!" I heard Happy exclaimed.
"No it's not!" I replied, not turning back from where I'm staring at Natsu's place.
After a few seconds of silence, I was puzzled when I got no response or even a groan out of him. Getting up and moving towards the top of the bed, another plan formulated on my mind when I saw my pink comforter. I smirked and got a hold of it as I crawled towards the other side of it. I can cover him with this and since he won't be able to attack me then, I can easily lunged at him and attack him!
Gathering my blanket with one hand, and the paper on the other one, I continued crawling before aiming to do my pla–What? Where is he?!
I frantically looked at the place where he's supposed to be but stilled when I heard someone say, "Got ya!" then something lunged towards me and flipped me on my back.
I stared at the smirk on Natsu's face from below him. I widened my eyes when I saw him moved his arms and the next thing I know is that he's gently tucking strands of my hair behind me ear. Face once again flushing, I held my breath when I saw his eyes soften and his head slowly lowered towards me.
"Uh-Wh-Nat-"Is all that I managed to say in the midst of the rapid beating of my heart and the tension surrounding the both of us.
He didn't say anything as I once again felt him shift. Unconsciously, I let out a gasp when I met his gaze. Swirling on his eyes are different emotions of longing, sadness, grief ,confusion, mirth and I was overwhelmed at the adoration I also saw behind them.
Seeing myself being reflected on his eyes, I was confused at the sudden urge to circled my arms around his neck and pull him towards me.
Suddenly, I felt something touch my cheek. What was that? I thought as I saw a glimpse of something round. With his head lowered, I saw him gave me a toothed grin before whispering, "And you're out. I win, Luce..."
I laid still as I watch him retract himself from me. As soon as I saw him stand up from my bed, he turned towards Happy and tell him something but I wasn't able to focus on it as I can still feel the unusual beating of my heart. My grip on the crumpled paper loosened as I clutch my clothe above the left side of my chest.
What is happening to me? I looked at Natsu who is currently grinning mischievously at Happy's direction. And I'm feeling this towards someone I didn't even know for more than a day?!
Granted that the fact that I have an 'amnesia' but doesn't this mean that I have feelings for him even from the 'me' on his memories?
"-cy, Lucee, Lucy!"
"W-what?" I saw Natsu offering his hand towards me, tilting his head in confusion.
I looked at him then to the hand he's offering. I have a feeling that I'll once again feel something from that contact, confusing me even more!
"Natsuu, Lucy's being weird again!"
"It seems like it, buddy. Hey Luce! Stop being a weirdo already and take my hand!" Natsu said, moving his outstretched hand up and down.
I glared at him for calling me a 'weirdo' and reached out to grasp his hand.
Guess what I felt?! Sparks! What the hell is wrong with me?!
"Stop calling me a weirdo, you cheater!" I exclaimed, turning my embarrassment as an accusation to change the topic.
"Wha–How am I a cheater?!"
"You disappeared! Where the hell did you go? If it weren't for that, I should've won!"
"Says you! You crawled up the bed and planned to trapped me with the blanket!" I flushed at his statement and turned my head away from him in defiance.
"That isn't cheating!" I exclaimed before turning to face him and looking at him in confusion.
"Seriously though, where were you?"
Something flew and flop down the mattress. I turned to look at Happy who's now busy burrowing on his green back pack for more fish.
"When you crawled on top of the bed, Natsu's on his way towards the other side of the bed, crawling on the floor!" He said before munching on the fish he got from his pack.
"And as soon as I reached the other end, I saw you peering down my place earlier so I used that opportunity to beat you!" Natsu continued as I transferred Happy from bed towards my study table, grumbling about the stench of the fish on my bed sheets.
"Oh, so that's why..." I trailed off before looking around my apartment. Letting out a sigh at the balls of paper littered around the place, I proceeded to pick them one by one.
Rustling from behind me caused me to peered at the duo. I raised my eyebrow when I saw Natsu copying me but let out a smile at his action. I continued what I was doing earlier, vaguely hearing Happy exclaiming how he'll find a bag where we can place the papers.
After a few minutes of silence, I stood up from my place under the my study table that Happy used as a base earlier and turned towards them. I saw them working eagerly so I decide to make a snack for us.
I hummed slightly, placing the papers that I collected on the bag Happy brought earlier before making my way towards the kitchen.
What should I make?
NATSU
When I saw Lucy going to the kitchen, I cast a glance at Happy and grinned mischievously. I picked one ball of paper before aiming at his head, getting his attention in the process.
I snickered at the look he gave me which melted into something mirroring my own. He clutched the crumpled paper he collected before using his aera to evade my shots, creating attacks of his own.
Despite being alert of Happy's location, I can't help but suddenly remember what I did earlier.
Light from the window shone down at her form, caressing her fair skin gently and lightening the brown color of her eyes.
With her face flushed and pink lips parted, I remembered struggling to remember what I need to do in the first place when I leaned down at her, stopping only at mere inches from her face.
Brown eyes stared back at me, and I was amazed on how I was able to make out my own reflection on them. From that position, I was able to feel how soft she was against my body, her scent enveloping my senses, making it hard to focus at what I should be doing, so before I could do something else, I decided to bump the crumpled paper on my hand to her cheeks slightly, applying no pressure at all.
"And you're out. I win, Luce..." I whispered before quickly retracting myself from her, plastering a grinning face despite the rapid beating on my chest when I faced a teasing Happy.
Snickering brought me out my thoughts and I turned to see Happy in front of me.
"You likkkkee herr~" He teased and I flopped down the floor. I grinned at him, "Didn't I told you earlier? I don't just like her..."
"Riiighht..." He replied before his expression turned thoughtful.
"Ne, Natsu..."
"Hmm?"
"I think she feels the same way..." At his statement and I shrugged in nonchalance, despite wanting what he said to be true.
"How can you tell?"
"Her reactions? Is turning red a common thing for her from what you remember?"
"Yep! She's often red for some reasons and she didn't want to tell me why! Tss, saying it's none of my business and the likes..."
"Huh..."At his response, I tilt my head in confusion.
"What?" Puzzled at the smirk he held at his face, I looked at him, expecting an explanation.
"Well, it turns out, despite you finding your feelings for her...You're still dense, Natsu!"
"What?! How am I dense? Happy!"
"Fufufu~" Even without memories, it seems like Happy discovered something I, who remembers everything, don't have an inkling as to what.
"Happy wha-"
"WHAT HAPPENED?!"
We both turned towards Lucy whose carrying bunch of sandwiches and 2 fresh salmon on a large plate, while balancing a pitcher of orange juice.
LUCY
I smiled as I finished making two dozens of sandwiches. I placed them in a large plate I found, getting a separate plate for the salmon Loke and I bought after settling in this apartment last night for my daily food supplies.
Balancing the food that I prepared with my arms, my left hand clutching the pitcher of juice that I made, I made my way out of the kitchen, using my right hand to opened the door leading to it.
I smiled and readied myself to announce to Natsu and Happy that they should take a break, but stopped when I saw the mess in front of me.
My gaze roamed the whole place, what progress we made from earlier seems nonexistent now
"WHAT HAPPENED?!" I exclaimed, gaze alternatingly moving between them for some explanation.
"He did it!"
"He started it!" Are the only response that I got. I walked towards my table, transferring the food I'm carrying before glaring at the both of them.
"To think that I even thought of making you guys snacks for helping me clean up!Urgh!" I groaned out in annoyance before sighing.
Suddenly hearing rustling, I glared at the pinkette who is slowly inching his way towards the snack that I made.
"Don't even think about it!" I exclaimed, pointing at him. He only gave me sheepish smile before slowly returning to his place beside Happy, who is currently giving me a pout.
Hmmp! As if I'm gonna fall for that!
"Now, clean this mess or else I'm going to finish all of these on my own! And yes! Even the fish Happy! I'll just cooked it as my dinner tonight!" I ordered, huffing at their response of "Aye Sir!" before sitting down at my chair.
A few moments of watching them clean washed away all of my irritation earlier. In fact, I was honestly amused at how they accuse one another of starting it and some exchange of nonsense that despite making no sense, I found myself giggling every now and then at their antics.
Two consecutive burping sounds resounded in the room as the duo lounged after eating the snacks. I managed to eat 2 sandwiches and was astonished at the speed and seemingly bottomless stomach of a dragon slayer who even asked for more. Grumbling, I fetched him 2 bags of chips and reminded him that I won't give him any more than that.
Leaning against my bed frame on the floor, I hummed as I read a book I found interesting from my study table.
"Hey Luce?" A sudden call made me turn my attention to Natsu who managed to looked at me from where he's laying.
"Yeah?"
"I had fun..." I sent him a puzzled look that made him chuckle.
"You said you're no fun earlier right? Well here I am saying I did have fun with you..."He said casually, oblivious to the implications of his statement.
"Did you also had fun, Bud?" I saw him turned his head towards Happy.
"Aye!" Exclaimed the blue feline and with that, he once again looked at me then said, "Hear that? We both had fun today! I don't understand what you meant when you said that 'You're not fun enough to match my limitless energy'? Psh, who said you had to match or go along with my antics? I'm not here because I want someone 'fun', I'm here because you're here. I don't really get why would you say those things about you..." Without seeing him, I can tell that he's frowning as he talked. He became silent for a second before continuing, "I know that you're still cautious around us because you're still uncertain of what you should and shouldn't believed in...So I'll just say this, I know you don't remember me but rest assured that I'm not gonna let anything happen to you! We're partners! Right, Happy?!" He grinned and before I know it, Happy settled himself on my lap.
"Aye! You may be scary and weird but the short time I spent with you is enough to say and treat you like a nakama! The guild will surely love to meet you!" Happy agreed to what Natsu said and despite wanting to pinch his cheeks for saying that I'm scary and weird, I felt happy and appreciated.
I cast a glance to the dragon slayer who is now sitting up straight and gave him a grin, wanting to show the happiness that I'm feeling. I mouthed 'Thank you' towards him which he replied with a salute and that grin of his.
I want to have my memories back...I mused. I blinked as I felt my eyes get heavy with exhaustion of today's events. I yawned, looking at the now slumbering feline on my lap before turning to Natsu who suddenly stood up from his spot.
"What are you doing?" I asked, confused at his action. Is he gonna leave?
"Nothing..."He muttered, walking towards Happy and I.
I suspiciously looked at the innocent look on his face, curious at what he's going to do.
Turns out, he wanted to leaned on the bed frame like me. He sat down, flashing me grin before shifting his body so that half of it is facing me.
I widened my eyes when he touched the other side of my head and made me leaned on his shoulder.
"Wha–" I tried to object but he cut me off by whispering, "Sleep..."
I felt my face heating up once again and I swear! One more time, I'm going to suspect that I have a fever! How many times does this make it?!
After a few minutes of silence, I willed myself to speak up. "Natsu?"
"Yeah?"
"You know that I have a bed right?"
"Uh-Huh...And?"
"And you know that a bed is used for this type of reason right? Like I'm tired and I want to rest, I have a bed here to use?"
"Well-aware of it..." I heard him replied, and I almost face-palm at the confused tone he gave me. As if I'm the weird one!
"If so, then why the hell am I leaning on you to rest?!" I said, turning my head slightly so that I can see his face.
"Nah, too much effort...I'm here aren't I?I personally came towards you and all you have to do is to lean on me! Less effort right?!" He asserted, obviously happy at his idea.
"But! It's right over here! We're currently leaning on it!" I insisted, wanting to convince him to move.
"Eh, I'm tired so shhh, be quiet Luce..."He murmured, before I felt something leaning of the top of my head.
Is he–No! Argh! What do I do?
After a few minutes of contemplating, I sighed giving up.
Here I am, snuggling against someone I don't completely know and yet, something's telling me that this is just right.
I closed my eyes and was surprised at the warmth filling my body. It seems like I was too focused on my thoughts that I failed to notice it.
Unconsciously, I felt myself snuggled deeper into the warmth and sigh as it seems to lull me into sleep.
The only thing that I remember before falling asleep is the gibberish words from a sleeping Happy and warm breath fanning my neck.
NASTU
Waking up to see Lucy in my arms as she held Happy on her made me feel light and at ease. Looking at the window by the bed, I realized how late it was.
Shifting as I tried to stand up with my partners in my arms, I carried them to the bed for a more comfortable position.
Checking the time at the clock, I realized that it's already 7 in the night. Looking around the apartment, I went to the lamp located at Lucy's side table and switch it on. for a more suitable source of light.
Suddenly, I heard something from outside the door. I used my heightened sense of smell and was able to calm down when I detected the smell of star dust.
I opened the door and looked at him confusedly.
"What are you doing here, Loke?" Offering me a nod as a form of acknowledgement, he shrugged in response before fixing his glasses.
"I'm just checking up on Lucy...Is she okay?"
"She is..."I answered, observing his unusual movements like how his eyes roamed at the his surroundings, and how he fixed his glasses every now and then.
"Something wrong?" I queried, now starting to look at outside, observing for any unusual activities. At my question, he snap his attention towards me, face serious.
"There's some sighting of a suspicious individual looking for a blonde Celestial Mage in Acalypha and Hargeon. Master Bob told me about it when I visited them today to asked Hibiki's assistance. His Archive magic will be useful for the origin of the stolen relic..." He stated, before continuing, "Another thing is that, I dropped by the guild today to observe them and while doing so, I saw two suspicious individuals roaming around Fairy Tail's vicinity..."
I considered what he said, enraged at the fact that our enemies seems to be much closer that I thought they would be. But this doesn't mean that I would head on to take them on a fight, well maybe in the past but with Luce's condition now, I won't be able to and hell! I don't even want to!
I promised that I'll keep her safe and engaging into fights mindlessly like that, won't certainly help. And I'm sure, even without memories, Fairy Tail will be able to take on enemies in their own!
"What about the relic?" After a few minutes of silence, I asked Loke who is currently peering on the side of the opened door of Lucy's bedroom. He turned his attention back at me and sighed.
"Unfortunately, Hibiki assisted Ichiya on his business in Crocus and will only arrive at the guild tomorrow...No updates from Virgo and Aquarius as of today but Crux and the others discovered something about a man named Daimon on the archives found in the Celestial World. They're still working on it but they found it odd since the scroll where they found his name is from 400 years ago..." I nod, listening intently and restoring important information as I can. The only thing I hoped for is that I won't be able forget any of it after a few hours or even days!
But 400 years ago? Is this just a coincidence?
Loke, who once again peered on the sleeping figure of Happy and Lucy, let out a small smile.
"I'm glad to see a peaceful look on her face..."I heard him murmured. At this, I focused my attention to him, momentarily forgetting about waht he said.
"What d'ya mean by that?"
"For the past two weeks, she's been having nightmares. She'll wake up every night, crying and would only stop when Anna comforted her... It's just...I felt useless knowing I can't even do anything to help her..." I saw him dart his gaze downwards as I'd he's ashamed about admitting this.
"Well don't." I blurted out as soon as I heard what he said.
"What?"
"I said don't. Don't feel ashamed and useless..."
"But–" He's about to say something but I managed to cut him off by looking at him seriously.
"You're helping her, just by gathering information about the situation and the things that you can do...Compared to me whose asleep all those two weeks? You're more help than I am to her..." Loke gave a sad smile before shaking his head.
"That maybe true but you've done more than what I'll ever do..." I was about to protest but didn't have a chance to when he continued, "I felt it in the bond Natsu...She's happy. Those mere hours you spent with her today compared to the days I've been with her, has a huge noticeable difference with each other! Sure she's happy but not to the extent that we, her spirits, felt warmth and the happiness ranging from her!" He stopped before continuing, even with hesitation on his face, "You have a bond, much stronger that anyone could have with her..."Stunned at what he said, I couldn't say anything. It's obvious that he didn't even want to admit all of these things.
"Now that I saw Princess, I take it that you'll handle things from here on right?" I nod at his question and despite the being stunned from what he said earlier, I was still able to flash him a grin.
"Yeah, I promise I'll protect her..."
"I'll keep you updated with what information that I'm going to find...including what they wanted from us. Virgo and Aquarius are close to seeing the King, it's just a matter of hours until then..."
"Yeah, thanks for doing this..."
"Don't thank me, it's the duty I wanted to do for Lucy's sake...Well, do tell her that her knight in shining armor will always be here for her and that I'll-"I waved him off, a spark of annoyance igniting at his words. At this, I saw him smirk at something I'm not aware of and disappeared before I could asked him about what he's smug about.
Tsk, smug bastard.
I closed and locked the door. Suddenly hearing rustling coming from the Lucy's bedroom, I quickly went towards it only to find Lucy sitting up on the mattress.
I sighed in relief. She's safe, they're safe...
"Natsu?" I heard Lucy called out, who is in the process of stretching her arms. I saw her squint her eyes in the dark, rubbing them. Her room is dimly lit, save from the lamp I turned on earlier.
"Yeah?" I replied, stepping towards her direction the bed.
"Were you talking to someone? I heard voices..."She probed before yawning behind her palm.
Damn, did she heard us? I left the door opened! "It's just Loke..."
"Oh? Did he say why he came here at—(She looked at the visible night sky on her window) night?"
"He just came to check on you..."I said, settling myself down beside her. I ruffle Happy's fur causing him to purr. I smiled at the sight of him sleeping peacefully cause' from what I heard from the others, ever since my 'accident', Happy's been staying either Wendy's or Mira's. Most of the nights, he'll chose to lay next to me in guild's infirmary and stayed there all throughout the night.
This means that Happy's been on that routine for two weeks now and seeing him relaxed made me at ease, since it's quite different from the whimpering blue feline Mira told me about while I'm in a coma.
"Think he'll wake up in a few hours? I wanted to fix us some dinner before you carry him home..."
"Nah, this will probably go on till tomorrow..." I saw her nod in understanding. I watched as Lucy stood up, petting Happy's head affectionately before going to the kitchen.
Quickly fixing the blanket around Happy, I trailed after her to her kitchen.
Leaning against the wall as I watched her search something from her kitchen cabinet, I felt myself drift off with my thoughts, thinking of ways we could stay here without alerting her of what's happening. I plan to tell her, well, eventually. But not now...
Suddenly, my view was blocked by her worried face, her eyes searching mine.
"—tsu? Natsu, are you okay?" She questioned.
"I'm fine, Luce... What're you saying again?"
"I said, what do you want to eat?"
"Some fire chicken! Honestly, it's up to you cause' I don't really have a favourite, I literally eat anything though I must tell you that I favour meat over vegetables!" I answered, grinning cheekily at her, not minding the amused stare she gave me.
"Alright then, now stay right there..."
"But I want to help!"
"Natsu, can you cook?"
"I cook Happy and mine's meal with my fire! I'm really excellent at doing it!"
"Huh, well we're using a stove so that's not counted..."
"But Lucee!"
"No!" She exclaimed, glaring at me.
"I'll do good! Promise!"
"Fine! Here, peel these potatoes..." I grinned at her, eagerly doing what I was asked to do.
A few minutes later
"Natsu, where are the potatoes? I need the—Natsu! What happened?!"
I looked at her, fuming in annoyance as I cast a glance at the slightly charred and peeled potato.
"This potato won't cooperate!" I accursedly pointed at the indented potato in front of me.
I pouted when she only laughed at my expense.
After eating, I decided that it's time to convince her to let us stay here. Well, convince her in a way I do. It's simple! I'll just put it bluntly and direct to the point!
"Hey Luce?" She looked up from where she was collecting out plates. She didn't say anything but with her head titled and eyes on me, I could tell she wants me to continue
"Can we stay for the night?"
"What? No!" She exclaimed, putting down the plates she collected before facing me fully.
"Why?"
"Why? WHY? Can't you see that something's wrong with what you just said?!"
"There's something wrong?"
"You're a man and I'm a woman! It's just not right!"
"How is it not right when we're only staying here? And it's not just me and you! There's Happy!"
"But it's not proper!"
"Says who?"
"Me!" She crossed her arms over her chest, looking away from me. I sighed.
"But can't we really stay? I just found you today Luce…I don't want to be apart from you from now on…" I told her, serious at what I'm saying. Even without seeing her, I can almost imagine her flush as I heard her splutter.
LUCY
"Can we stay for the night?" I quickly put down the plates that I collected before turning to face him, shocked at what I just heard.
"What? No!" I exclaimed, almost groaning in frustration when I saw his confused and dumbfounded expression.
"Why?"
"Why? WHY? Can't you see that something's wrong with what you just said?!" I fumed, frustrated at the situation I found myself in.
Just what is he thinking?! Sure, I hanged out with them despite the oddity of our situation but I think this is just too much!
And despite the fact that there's a part of me who want to be with them, that doesn't change the fact I knew them just a few hours ago!
I believe them, hell, I don't even know the reason why! I'm so confused at everything happening in front me...
I sighed, forcing myself to calm down and think clearly.
"There's something wrong?"
"You're a man and I'm a woman! It's just not right!"
"How is it not right? When we're only staying here?"
"Its not proper!"
"Says who?"
"Me!" I looked away from him.
"But can't we really stay? I just found you today Luce…I don't want to be apart from you from now on…" I blushed at his sincere tone and at what he said.
Okay, Lucy...You know that Natsu is also like you, who is currently in the midst of everything that's happening all at once. My heart clenched at the sudden image of him from earlier, with that crest-fallen look of his face.
Looking at him now, all my worries, confusion and frustration seems to evaporate at thin air.
Is this his own way of coming into terms with what is happening? His way to cope just like how I am with reading books and thinking?
With a hopeful glint on his eyes, I observed him stare at me as if he's waiting for any answers and response. His salmon locks were disheveled, probably because he didn't even fix them after he woke up! His lips were pursed, and I know he wanted to continue convincing me to let him and Happy stay for the night but he prevented himself to give me a time to think.
From the short time that I spent with him, I knew him as this over-energized guy who is confident on his abilities. He has no qualms of being blunt and direct to everything he does. Though, he eat a lot, and I mean a whole LOT, I saw how considerate he is with the people around him, in his own way. He's not selfish, and despite his child-like tendencies, he can be mature when he wants it to be. He's smart though he often acts like an idiot. He's honest and true to his words. He acts recklessly without thinking things through but he's passionate at whatever he does.
All these things about him, even the ones I find annoying at times, makes him, him. And I want to know more about him...
With a defeated sigh, I mumbled "Fine..."
Returning to what I am doing earlier, I turn my back on him and went to the kitchen to do the dishes.
Despite not wanting to, I let out a smile when I heard him exclaimed, "Yosh!"
NATSU
Grinning at what she said, I walked towards the bed and flopped down it.
Truth be told, what Loke said isn't my only reason of wanting to stay here.
So many things has happened and I just want to assure myself that this day with Lucy is real.
Staring at the cream-colored ceiling of her apartment, I chuckled when I saw the glow in the dark stars that I helped Lucy stick on it. I even remember her insisting that we formed all of her Spirits' constellation.
She really loves to look at the stars or anything connected to it for that matter.
Rustling brought me out of my thoughts. I turned to look at the direction where I heard it only to saw Lucy walking towards the bed, obviously done with the dirty dishes.
She raised her eyebrows at me then crossed her arms by her chest. "What are you doing?"
I sent her a cheeky grin, nuzzling the blankets before replying, "What does it looks like? I'm lying down, you weirdo." I said, looking at her as if saying 'Isn't obvious?'
I chuckled when she stomped her feet in annoyance.
"You're sleeping on the couch!" She pointed her couch that I just cast with an uninterested gaze.
"But I'm a guest! 'sides, Your bed's so comfortable!" I protested, voice slightly lowered to prevent from waking up Happy.
"I'm the owner of this house! Natsu!"
"Shhh Luce, you'll wake Happy up!"
"Wha–And I'm the one at fault here? You're unbelievable Dragneel!"
"Alright, fine..."I grinned at her, standing up before gently scooping Happy up from his place.
Lying down with the comfort of her couch (but not as comfortable as her bed!), I placed the sleeping feline on my chest.
"Here..." I heard her murmured before a pillow was shoved infront of my face.
"Thanks, Luce..." I whispered, getting the pillow from her hold as an amused smile spread on my face at the flush visible on her face.
LUCY
"Goodnight, Natsu..." I called out to him from where I'm lying.
I'm not sure if he's asleep yet since I went to the bathroom to do my nightly routines after I gave him a pillow.
" 'Night Luce..."I smiled at his groggy voice when he replied. Nuzzling myself at the blanket and the pillow underneath my head, I closed my eyes and drift to sleep.
Sometime between my sleep, I let out a satisfied sigh when something warm seems to envelope me. I smiled, pleased at the sensation before once again drifting off to sleep.
END OF CHAPTER 7
A/N: I'd really appreciate it if you post your reviews!