WEll i'm back! and with an update too! Thank you for all the reviews and favorites and followers on this! Makes me happy! Enjoy this next part! ;)


Chapter: 3: Visitors of the Night


She seemed to wait for a long while before she realized that she didn't hear anything anymore. Opening her eyes she looked at the hole where the wolf had been only to find that he wasn't there anymore. Blinking she tried to look through the roots to see where he was when an earth shaking roar ripped through the Forest. The sound had her clapping her hands over her ears and crying out in shock. As the noise faded her eyes shot open, she knew that roar. Looking up to the hole once more she scrambled forward and slowly peered around the edge of a torn root.

There in the little bit of light cast from her lantern she could see the outline of the wolf crouched ready to spring forward, his teeth shining just as bright as his orange eyes as he growled at the other outline. This figure towered over that of the wolf, standing like a man but with arms and legs of a dragon, razor sharp claws at the end of each digit, thick hair that cascaded down his back like spikes. Outlines atop the figures' head were two long twisting horns, giving the figure a demonic appearance as he leaned forward, fangs of his own bared at the wolf, ready to strike with wings clamped close to his back and tail raised to balance himself. The two beasts were at a standoff, each waiting for the other to make the next move, and when they did move, it was in the blink of an eye. One second they were opposite of each other outlined by the lantern light, the next the wolf had leapt forward towards the demonic figure who was able to catch the animal before he was able to snap his jaws around a part of the other beast.

Levy watched on in awe as the two scuffled. With a snarl the wolf sprang to and fro the Dragon following his every move with growls of his own; clawed hands grabbing at the grey mass but only coming away with handfuls of fur and no meat behind it. Suddenly the wolf darted one way and when the Dragon followed, the grey beast reversed and launched himself towards the Dragon who caught him mid leap, the momentum knocking both to the ground. The forest rang as the two struggled for a moment then with a powerful kick and a yelp, the wolf dropped to the dirt just outside the rim of light. He didn't stand again. The victor sat in the dirt in the center of the light, chest rising and falling rapidly as he regained his normal breath. Her eyes were drawn to him and she couldn't look away. After a moment he let out a half sigh half groan and cocked his head toward her as he faced her, the light to his back. She stared at the silted blood red eyes staring her down and the flash of white as he licked his fangs. He stood and took a step towards her. Levy let out a hushed "Eep!" and ducked back into her little sanctuary. She heard the dark rumble of the Dragon's unique laughter and her heart flipped over.

"Gihihi… well, well, well… what do we hav' here? A little Shrimp lost in the woods? Now why woul'tha be? Hmmm?"

Levy couldn't help the smile that slipped across her face, and she let out a hushed giggle which was totally out of place considering the situation. Crawling forward once again, she looked out at the Dragon who was now mere feet from her hiding place. Looking up at her savior, the smile vanished from her features as she met the Dragon's gaze. His eyes were cold and hard, he had his muscled arms folded over his bare chest, easily using his size as an intimidation factor. It was working.

Levy swallowed, "G –gajee – l?" her voice cracked and she tripped over the word, caught off guard by the look he was giving her.

In return he suddenly bent down and grabbed her upper arm gruffly and pulled her up to her feet. Squeaking her protest, Levy tried to get out of his firm grip, "G-gajeel! Gajeel! Let go, that hurts, Gajeeeel!" He was dragging her away, massive claws poking into her flesh as he dragged her; arm in one hand and her lantern in the other as he walked briskly into the trees.

Squirming she was able to slip from his grip with a hiss as his talons closed to keep her in his grip but she pulled through and immediately stopped walking. The dragon took a few more steps then stopped as well. He turned on his heel and glared down at her.

"What are ya' doing here!?" his voice was harsh and angry, the light from her lantern casting hard shadows across his defined face catching in the metal studs and reflecting off his burning red eyes. Paired with his half scaled flesh and ugly black horns from his head. He looked more Dragon than man. Levy remembered the first time she had laid eyes on the man before her, the fear she had felt then returned and she faltered.

"I… I… I…!" she couldn't speak, he curled his lip and spoke for her, "Ya' what? Have ya' any idea how dangerous this place is, especially for someone like yerself? Unarmed, helpless and no horse this time? Or did ya' fall again? What are ya' stupid!? The strongest of knights die in here, what in the name of the Gods possessed you to come here in the middle of the fuckin' night!?" he was yelling at her, it sounded more like a roar than anything else.

Levy was frightened and took several steps back, tears pricking her eyes as she stared at him. When he stopped to take a breath she turned her face away and hung her head. She knew he was right, she had been stupid to come unable to defend herself, but she had remembered a light this time and Moonlight was there too, well not exactly, but Levy knew where her mount was this time. But, she had a purpose for coming here, and that was important to her. Glancing up at the angry Dragon before her, she grabbed at the fabric of her dress,

"I…I had to – to warn you…"

Gajeel blinked, caught completely off guard, "W-Warn me!? What!? Warn me about what…!?"

"I had to – to warn you! It's Laxus… I'm not sure, but I think he – he might suspect something, or be planning something, I don't honestly know, but I do know he's dangerous, just as dangerous as this place… I… I didn't want you to run into him without knowing…. That he might be coming… I – I wanted… I wanted…" She trailed off, flushing and averting her eyes, hoping the darkness would hide her embarrassment, "I wanted to protect you like you have for me…"

The Dragon stared at her, mouth agape, for a long moment. Finally his jaw snapped shut with a click of teeth hitting teeth and he straightened, pulling a clawed hand behind his head and rubbing his neck. Looking up to the sky he let out a growling sigh then looked down his nose at her,

"Laxus huh? I'm not worried. Let him think and do as he wants. Did ya' really think he can hold his own against the likes of me? I'm not pathetic ya' know. Laxus is not an issue." His anger was still present in his tone, but he wasn't yelling anymore, "Ya' mean ta' tell me, you came all the way out 'ere ta' tell me Laxus is a scheming little prick?

Levy looked down again, clenching her fists at her side. Of course, this was a Dragon, he could take care of himself. Laxus was noting to him, look what had happened the last time these two met? Gajeel had been fine then, and Laxus had nearly died! It was so stupid to her now that she would come all this way to tell him something that he already knew and could take care of himself. She could feel the tears stinging her eyes. She had almost been eaten by a wolf because of her stupidity.

Suddenly, she felt a surprisingly hot and perfectly smooth finger under her chin, lifting her head so that her big, soft, honey-doe eyes were looking into cold red ones. He looked at her for a moment, searching her eyes for something. She felt like he was digging through her brain with a stick, just as before when he had looked at her this way. Holding her gaze he spoke,

"Why do ya' care so much about what 'appens to a big bad Dragon anyway? Had to be somethin' pretty strong for ya' come all the way out here…?"

She could feel her blush returning and she bit her lip, mind racing for something to say. What was her real reason for coming out to warn him? What was driving her? Why was she doing this? She couldn't answer, she didn't fully understand it herself yet either.

"I… I wanted to return the debt," she whispered meekly, "for that night you saved me, I wanted to do something so that I wouldn't be in your debt…but, it looks like I did just the opposite… I – I'm sorry…" she turned her head away, surprised that she instantly missed the warmth of him under her chin. She bit her lip to keep herself from crying, but a few tears slipped out and ran down her face. Gajeel growled in the back of his throat straightening he frowned and rubbed his neck awkwardly. He didn't know what to do with this… this crying. He wasn't good with tears. And why should he be? It's not like Dragons and humans interacted, much less took care of each other as they seemed to be doing. If his father saw him now, Gajeel would be Dragon chow. As a combination of not knowing what to do and wanted to do something he reached up to her face and wiped the wetness from her skin with the back of his scaled hand. Levy sniffled softly and furiously made to rub her eyes of tears.

"I'm sorry…" she mumbled again, "I'm such a pain… I'm sorry."

He looked down at her with an expression of bewilderment, surprise and concern. Something very different from the angry and fuming Dragon he was just a few minutes ago. Sighing he placed his big hand on her head and awkwardly ruffled her hair, letting the strands slip over his fingers. Gods but it was silky smooth. Like literal strands of silk not human hair was gorwing from her scalp. Something in him practically purred as his eyes soaked up his hands in her hair, his fingers on her head, skin to skin, warmth to warmth. Something was changing. Something was growing.

"What – what did Laxus do err say ta' make you think he might be after me?" Gajeel quickly tried to change the subject in hops that her tears would subside, and to get his mind back on track. Levy looked up at him, then away, and with a sigh began to speak.

"I was cornered in the gardens by Laxus. He informed me that my last suitors were dead before offering to take their place and asked for my hand. I refused, we argued and I told him I'd-" Levy stopped short catching the Dragon's attention. She was quickly turning red and wouldn't look at him. After a moment she continued, "Anyway in our argument we, um… got on the topic of Dragons and my disappearance and he sort of put two and two together. He's been more persistent lately and I just wanted to make sure nothing came back to you." she was bright red and mumbling, glaring at her feet.

With her conclusion the Dragon sighed and rubbed his temples as if he had a head ache. Muttering something under his breath that sounded something like "Gods damned stupid humans" he suddenly turned and began walking away from her, the lantern still in his grasp. Levy only realized this as the light began to fade around her. Looking up she was shocked to see the Dragon moving off.

"Gajeel!? Hey, wait!" quickly she dashed after him. Catching up to him, she moved to his side having to trot a little to keep up with his pace. "Where are you going? Gajeel?" he didn't answer.

Pouting, she looked up at the Dragon, but he didn't look at her. Even when she poked him on the arm, he ignored her. With a sigh she gave up, he wasn't going to tell her anything so why try? They walked only a little while until the ground began to slope upwards violently. It was easy for Gajeel to pick his way through the varied terrain, but Levy struggled. There were rocks and tree roots and dips in the ground and she was falling all over herself. They continued for what felt like hours. Panting she finally reached the top of the little incline and bent over to catch her breath. Looking up, she realized they had come out of the forest a little and were on a small plateau that was sheltered some by the sudden jagged overhang of the mountain side. Trees continued to grow on the sides of the flat place and below it, but non on it nor above on the rocky overhang.

Gajeel was sitting with his back against the mountain side, the lantern at his feet casting light all around the flat space, as he looked up to the sky. Levy made her way to his side and flopped down next to him. He raised an eyebrow at her very unladylike behavior but he was smirking a little also. She flashed him a bit of a dirty look, which had him grinning, before she too looked up at the sky.

The sight above them was like nothing she had ever seen before. The midnight black sky was littered with stars shining so brightly, Levy could make out the expanse of the Forest at the elevation they were at, which was a good quarter of the way up the mountain side, as well as where the Forest ended and the hunting fields began. Looking left slightly she could make out the blurred lines and blackness of the castle. The view was simply spectacular, Levy found herself gaping at the sights before her. It was almost as good if not better than the view from the Dragon's cave. The man at her side chuckled as he watched her,

"Ya' should see yer' face! Ain'tcha ever seen the sky before?" His gravelly voice was full of amusement. Levy turned to look at the Dragon, her eyes wide a bright beaming smile on her face, "Never like this before, this… this is wonderful!"

"Gihihi! Yeah, a view like this makes me glad ta' be a Dragon. Ya' won't get vew's like this in the city, too many lights and smoke and human nonsense… Nahh, I'm good staying up here on my mountain, no people to bother me 'er get in my way, and no stuck up pricks of prince's trying ta' force me ta' marry them!" He tossed her a wink with his last few words. She giggled and sighed.

"Must be nice… all this – freedom. I can't even begin to imagine…" her voice trailed off as her face fell a little. She shook her head as if to clear it and looked back up at the sky again. After a moment she spoke again, "I hate that I have to get married. I don't want to, and I don't have anyone that I would want to marry anyway! I want to be able to pick the man I'll be spending the rest of my life with, like normal girls can…" She was pouting again tucking her knees up to her chest, wrapping her arms around her legs and resting her chin there as she continued to gaze at the stars.

Gajeel was watching her, then he too looked up at the sky, "Ya' know, Dragon's don't get ta' pick their mates…" Levy turned to him, "Hmm? What do you mean?" Gajeel smirked almost regretfully, "We don't 'ave a say in who we, uh …mate with… it just kinda' happens," seeing that she wasn't understanding he continued, "We just sort of, know," he shrugged, "Some Dragons go their whole life time without a mate, some find them when they're still hatchlings. It all depends… Nature picks our mates for us, and when we meet that Dragon, something just, just like – clicks. And that's that."

Levy was hooked.

In all the books and scrolls and accounts of Dragons nothing, not one page nor word had talked about the nonviolent lifestyles of Dragons. She stared at Gajeel with big honey eyes full of wonder and a thirst to know more. Glancing at her, Gajeel raised his eyebrows questioningly. It was like she wanted to know more about Dragons…

"Can you tell me more? More about Dragons!? Please!?" He was cautious, no one had ever wanted to learn about dragons, just kill them, he thought that's all they cared about. He had simply been humoring her for the sake of conversation.

"Why?"

Surprised, Levy blinked in puzzlement, "Because, well I want to know more about Dragons. The castle library has pathetically little information about Dragons, and whatever there is, is about killing them, or getting rid of Dragons, nothing and I mean nothing says anything other than treating them like… well… monsters… And I don't believe that…"

"We are monsters…"

She frowned at his quiet confession, "No, I don't think so… not you. I mean, if you were a monster, you wouldn't have saved me… twice." She offered him a small smile, her honey eyes shining

They exchanged looks, before Gajeel frowned and looked away. Levy smiled a little wider and leaned back against the rock wall at their backs and gazed up at the stars. Ok, she'd bite. Information for information.

"Ya' know, not all us humans are the same. There's a few that can see past how a person looks or sounds like or where they come from or whatever," she sighed lightly, "The King, my grandfather, he made sure that I knew we were all the same, we all have things that we want to protect and people we love, we all want to exist in a way that makes us happy. We want to be able to know that we're safe at night and when we rise in the morning, it will be a good day without harm or hazard to us. He says that this is the key to peace, too keeping the kingdom strong and united. That we, I, have to understand a person fully before I make a judgment on them or what they're asking for," she chuckled lightly, "He's glad that I'm female. He thinks men these days are thick headed, oversized, stupid, apes who call themselves men and want to dominate everything he sets his eyes on, his wife, children, lands, servants, people, even animals, or whatever."

Gajeel was looking at her again, taking in every word she spoke. With a snort he rolls his eyes.

"Well. I guess I can agree with that last part. Humans are stupid, thinking that their kings and queens of the world. Arrogance, they're full of it." He scoffed picking at something on his torn trousers as he glared at the ground.

Levy to frowned, looking away from him to her own knees, but his soft voice had her attention back on him, she wasn't sure she was even hearing him, he was talking so quietly.

"But… you, yer… different. Hn, stupid none the less," she pouted at him and he smirked, still looking at his knee as if he knew she was pouting at him, "But, I see that you are still different. Yer a fine lady of royalty… I know some 'bout the laws governing marriage for the Royals, and there all stupid, like the people who made them up. Yer too, good, and pretty, to just be wed off to some asshole who's only after the crown, much less that fucker Laxus…" Levy flushed at his words, quickly adverting her eyes, but not before she noticed the light flush in the Dragons ears, "Hn, I've been around a, a while… Gihihi, an' I've seen yer ancestors come'n go. I remember when yer great King was still a young thing. He was different too. He was the first person besides yerself that actually tried to talk to me. Thought he was off his rocker, Gihihi!" Levy couldn't help a small smile at this, she had thought the same about the King a few times in her life. I wonder… just how long to Dragons live for anyway? I'll have to remember to ask him… I wonder how old he is anyway!?

Gajeel didn't seem to notice her musings and continued, "Anyway…yer probably the most beautiful princess of the royal family fer a while, an' yer smart – well sometimes – butch'a got guts that's fer sure," Gajeel threw his head back and stared wide eyed up at the spattering of brilliant lights in the sky, some of them reflecting in his eyes. Levy watched him with a mixture of awe and embarrassment. After a pause he continued, but it was more as if he was talking to himself than to her, "I think… that if there were more people like ya', there might be more Dragons in this world too…" a small sad smile pulled at his lips, "I wonder then if my o'man an' Lilly would still be here too…"

The emotion in his voice pulled at Levy's heart. His father? And, mate? Were they killed by Dragon Slayers like Natsu and Laxus? Her heart clenched painfully in her chest again. Reaching out she lightly touched his arm. As if burned he snapped his gaze on her, his muscles flexing instinctively at her touch. She smiled sympathetically at him and his eyes softened a little.

"Your father and mate? They were killed by Dragon Slayers… right?" her voice too was quiet.

To her surprise Gajeel chuckled, amusement dancing through his ruby eyes, "Gihihi! My father and best friend. Gihi, I haven't mated yet, don't really think I ever will really!"

Frowning Levy gave him a confused look, "But you said Lilly?"

"Yeah, oh! That's just what I called him, his full name is PantherLilly, he kinda looked like a Panther, and smelled like Lillys so…" He shrugged, "But yeah, Dragon Slayers." His smile faded ad the amusement left his features, "The o'man first, then Lilly a few decades later. I was still a youngling really, when they left…" Again he turned his face skywards, a frown tugging at the corners of his mouth.

The emotions that had crossed the Dragons face, the sorrow and pain that had flashed in his eyes, it reminded Levy of losing her own mother. She was only a few months old when Laxus had tried his take over and failed. But she remembered her mothers' death, the people were mourning for years afterward. Seeing the mighty Dragon beside her express such feelings caused emotions to rise in her throat. She could feel his pain, even if he was trying to hide it, Levy knew he was hurting. An overwhelming need to comfort him over took her and she scooted closer to him and rested her cheek on his shoulder her arms wrapping around his bicep. Again the Dragon flinched, and his eyes turned to her but didn't say anything.

"Gajeel… I'm sorry. I'm so sorry about your father and Lilly… that's terrible, no one should have to go through that!" tears welled in her eyes and she quickly whipped them away, "When I become Queen… I'll make sure that Dragon hunting is put to an end in Fiore. No family should be ripped apart like that *sniff* I don't care if it's a human family, Dragon family or a bunch of rats! It's not right, I'll make sure it stops *sniff* I know it won't do anything to bring Lilly or your father back, but… at least it's something…" she couldn't help the few tears slip out of her eyes, but she whipped at them furiously again.

Silence enveloped them again and Levy regained her composure. Gajeel had no words. Never in his life, nor in any of the stories that his father had told him, had there ever been a human like the Princess beside him. He was taken aback by her compassion and bravery, her lack of regard for herself if it meant helping someone else out, even if it was a Dragon… The question "Why?" kept floating around in his brain, but eventually he shoved it aside and simply focused on the dawning fact that, for some strange reason, this little human cared about him. That realization made his heart skip a beat. He glanced down at the woman clinging to his arm, suddenly very aware how warm his skin felt where she was touching him, and how – nice – it felt. It brought back memories of when he was a hatchling, and he would curl up with Metalicana when it would storm, and how the Dragon's huge body would wrap around his little frame and keep him warm and safe from the elements. The warmth that Levy gave him was different than that of his father, more like when he and Lilly would play fight and train and mess around like younglings did – even if Lilly was about twice his age – and still, Levy's warmth was different. Like both Lilly and Metalicana combined…

Maybe it was because she was female. Maybe because… maybe… because she, no… could it even happen? His eyes slowly widened as the thought crossed his mind. Was it because she was a she, simply that this was the first interactions with a female in so long, that this feeling was so different? Or was it something else, something more… instinctual? He lightly shook his head, feeling the twinges of a headache returning. Relaxing and letting out a long breath he slumped against the rock at his back and let his head fall onto hers softly. At that point in time he didn't really care what this feeling was, why she was there, or why he was so soft on her, it was just nice to have her there.

Taking a deep breath, his eyes rolled back in his head as the smell of her filled his nose and sent little waves of bliss through his body. Grinning his toothy grin he chuckled low in his throat. He felt the shiver up and down Levy's spine caused by his actions and it only made him chuckle some more, slightly enjoying the squirming from his pillow. A poke in the ribs gave him the hint, and he settled for just letting her scent fill him up. There they sat for a while before Gajeel broke the silence.

"Hey, Shrimp?"

"Hmm? What is it Gajeel"

"…"

"…?"

"Thanks…yer a lot braver than any knight I've come across before an'… fer what it's worth, I think ya'll make a good Queen…" His voice was gruff and low, as if he was having trouble picking the right words to say, but the rumbling of his deep voice set Levy at ease and she smiled sweetly, giving his arm a little squeeze.

Adjusting her positing a little into something more comfortable, she was suddenly overcome with exhaustion and with the Dragon's warmth at her side and his bulky bicep as a pillow, she found herself drifting off. Gajeel felt her breathing slow down and her body naturally relax. Picking his head up he looked down at the mass of bright blue hair on his shoulder and frowned.

"Oi, Shrimp…?" Levy's soft breathing was all that answered him, "Gihihi… well would ya' look at that, comfy enough to sleep on a Dragon. Gihihi!" Replacing his head on hers he turned his eyes to the skies once more, his eyes finding the stars that formed the great constellation Draco, the Father of all Dragons, their King. He knew that somewhere up in the heavens with the Dragon King was Metalicana and Lilly.

What would those two do if they saw him like this now? A human girl cuddled up to his side, he returning the affection in his own way. Metalicana would give him a glare and a beating later and chuck Levy off the mountain. Lilly would laugh and tease him about going soft, he might even take pity on Levy and bring her to the forest edge before Metalicana could get his claws on her. His mind wandered around the idea of his father and friend meeting Levy. What he didn't think much of was how much time had and was passing.

Sometime later, Gajeel woke with a start. Something wasn't right. Raising his head he looked around teeth half bared eyes searching. With no enemy in sight, Gajeel suddenly looked at the shadows of the mountains creeping their way into the valley.

"Shit…!" He went to jump to his feet, but something prevented his movement, "Ahh… double Shit! Levy!... Levy get up!"

She didn't stir and he sighed exasperatedly and began to untangle her from his grip, and catch her as her body slumped. Scooping her up in his arms he took two strides and was over the cliff edge. It was too risky to fly, not this far after dawn, he was walking; his Dragon legs could carry him fast enough – barely. Quickly he reached more level ground and was picking his way through the trees when he felt the woman in his arms begin to move. He stole a glance down at her.

Levy spread her hand out against Gajeels warm, bare chest. Not fully aware nor awake but she knew that they were moving and she now knew how. She turned her face into his warmth and allowed her body to wake up slowly. She felt his rumbling laughter and she smiled into his skin. Together they made their way to the forest edge. Gajeel slowed his pace and stopped a few yards from the fields, the sun had risen more than he had thought before. He let her down gently and scanned the field for any signs of Royal Knights or guardsmen looking for the missing (again) Princess.

Not wanting to leave Levy wrapped her arms around the Dragon's middle and hugged him tightly, pressing her face into his hard stomach just a few inches above the waistband of his trousers. For the third time Gajeel flinched at her sudden touch, and blatant disregard for personal space. His arms hovered over her shoulders for an instant, not sure what to do. There was a tug-of-war going on in his chest, one side pulling him back to his cave, the other holding him to the Princess currently around his middle. Finally he dropped his hands to embrace her back and he bent to bury his face in her hair, letting her smell affect him to the fullest. He could feel her relax when he returned her embrace. Lifting her face from his chest she let out a little sigh,

"I… I don't want to go…"

With way too much effort, he straightened and looked down at her, she returned his gaze by putting her chin on his stomach and peaking up through her bangs at him. The side of the tug-of-war that was holding him to the spot suddenly gained the upper hand. He was lost in her honey-doe eyes, but her voice brought him back with a snap.

"Huh? Wha?"

"I said, when can I see you again? I really enjoyed our little chat last night, but I feel like we just scraped the top of what you can teach me about you and your kind. I really do want to learn more." She giggled and grinned at him. He felt a smile on his lips as well, "Gihihi, eager huh?" She stuck her tongue out at him and he tossed her his toothy grin, "Soon Shrimp, but don't ya' come riding to the damn Forest no more ya' hear?" She pouted.

"But – how?"

"Never mind that, just… trust me…?" He didn't believe the words had just come out of his mouth, nor the ones that came out of hers, "Ok, I will… I want to learn more… about Dragons… About you… you will teach me won't you?" Her voice was soft and just as careful as his had been. There was a pause, then "Ok."

Her eyes grew wide as she stared at him, "Promise!?"

"Gihihi! Yeah, yeah, ok I 'promise' ya' Shorty."

Levy squeezed him a little tighter than before as she grinned up at him. In return he too pulled her closer and once more rested his face in her hair for a moment before pulling away and holding her at arms-length.

"Go home. Yer' mare's just over there, and she doesn't seem too happy about smelling a Dragon and not having ya' in her sights. Crazy animal…" he easily dodged the kick to his shin she offered him with a halfhearted pout, but she agreed and took a few steps back, offering him one last smile as she turned away.

He watched her walk off into the light of the risen sun, away from him in the darkness and shadows of the Black Forest. He couldn't take his eyes off of her as she stepped almost out of sight. Something in his chest constricted.

"Levy, Wait!"

It's a snap decision, he wasn't acting on instinct, against it actually, but emotion, something he hadn't felt for a long, long time. At his shout, Levy turned and suddenly he was there not half a step in front of her. She opened her mouth to speak but she couldn't get a word out. His large hands slipped around her body, one at her waist, the other fisting into her hair, tilting her head back. He bent to her and she closed her eyes instinctively, grabbing at his arms for stability. He was close, so, so close, she could feel his breath on her lips and nose. She could almost taste him, his smell filled her nose – woodsy and metallic and something that reminded her of his cave, a little smoky and cold.

Even if it was only a second or two, it felt like eternity before their lips met softly, almost missing, like a butterflies wings brushing against a blade of grass as it pulls itself into the air and flies away. When he leaned a fraction away from her, she followed and pressed their lips together again, harder this time. He came back to her just as willingly and pulled her to him, their mouths working with each other's. Bliss burst in Levy's mind when he kissed her back, pure, hot, wonderful bliss. It was like she had just had a bucket of hot water dumped over her head, the feeling spreading throughout her entire body. She didn't want to let go, she wanted to say here, with the Dragon, stay in this blissful state and just exist; when the sudden masculine bugle of a stallion split the air to the right, and a feministic whinny responded from the left.

And suddenly Levy was alone. Gajeel was gone and Levy felt instantly cold without the Dragons warm body against hers. Opening her eyes she wished it wasn't true, that he was just out of arms reach. She was alone she found, with the Dragon nowhere to be seen. Another louder whinny slowly brought her out of her stupor like state, and turning around slightly, she saw a golden horse with flowing white mane and tail cantering towards where Levy was.

Turning fully around she greeted Moonlight with a sad smile and an open palm for the mare to sniff as she slid to a stop a few feet from Levy. She was going to have a lot of making up to do with her horse, sugar and apples and carrots and extra oats for a while, that should do. Stroking her mares face and cooing softly to her as to calm her down, Levy looked over her shoulder and searched the thick blackness for any sign of Gajeel, but there was nothing but emptiness. Stroking her mares quivering nose she went to take the reins to discover that Moonlight had broken the fine leather in her escape to get to Levy. Smiling sadly, she hugged the mares' large face, feeling the tears begin to flow into her soft creamy face as the steed whickered softly, in a comforting way.

As she was pulling away Moonlights ears perked and she looked towards the south. Following her horse's glance, Levy saw a horse and rider cantering towards them. The horse was a large coppery chestnut with a strip of white running between his eyes and dipping into his heft nostril, dressed in the Royals colors his rider clad in leather and chainmail armor, the lightweight armor that Knights would wear when they were traveling. Levy recognized the knight atop the fiery stallion, a man just as fiery.

Natsu pulled his stallion to a halt just shy of Levy and Moonlight, "Levy? What are you doing out so early? And alone, so close to the Forest? Uhhh… care to explain?"

Levy smiled at the knight looking down at her, "Not really…" He raised an eyebrow, "Oh? Why not?" he tossed her a perplexed look, but Levy just smiled and went to mount Moonlight, "Hmm? Come on Levy, you know I won't getcha in trouble."

Levy fiddled with her broken reins and avoided her eyes by looking to the Black Forest. Natsu noticed her forlorn gaze and followed her gaze to the Black Forest. Seeing nothing of interest he turned back to Levy and was opening his mouth to say something, but she spoke for him, "It's a shame really… That we fear such a thing as a Forest… Simply because we don't understand it fully, we just base our behaviors off of the negative experiences we've had with it without stopping and asking why we couldn't get along… it's a real shame, I feel like we could learn so much… about our history, our ancestors, about ourselves… we might even come to realize that it's not so evil and bad and monstrous as we thought… we just never gave a chance…"

She seemed far away, as if lost in a dream, forgetting that he was there, forgetting wherever she was. Her voice was quiet and sorrowful, and underneath it all there was a hint of longing. Natsu's head was hearting some trying to understand what was happening. Shaking his rose colored locks he walked his mount to Moonlight's side and cleared his throat.

"Um, Levy? We should probably get back to the Castle. People are going to think you've gone missing again. The King wouldn't like that."

Levy looked at him, "Oh, yes. I shall return. Why are you out this early anyway?"

Natsu looked a little grave and his shoulders slumped a little. Levy frowned, "Natsu? Has something happened?" With a sigh the knight met her gaze with a serious expression, "The King told you about those two who were here for your hand?" She nodded and he continued, "Well… we found them, no actually… we found part of them."

"Part…!?" She was suddenly cold.

"Yeah, looks like that Dragon kinda', um, tore them apart… we only retrieved their bodies… without their heads…"

Levy couldn't speak. She couldn't think clearly, only one thought danced in her mind. Why didn't I ask Gajeel about that!? She was still against the idea that he had done the things claimed, but then again… he was more than capable… No! No I must believe that he didn't do it until I can ask him and know for sure… I know he wouldn't… wouldn't he? She clutched the reins so tightly Moonlight began to fidget. A hand on hers snapped her from her musings,

"Levy, it's ok… you don't have to worry anymore. They, they…." His voice trailed off. He was not very good at comfort – with the exception of his Fiancé – and holding the Princess just wasn't appropriate nor possible in the current situation. Instead he squeezed her hand awkwardly.

"I… I should be getting back. Please stay safe!"

He nodded and gave her his characteristic goofy grin, "I will! Lucy would kill me if I died! Hahaha!"

She stifled a giggle and rolled her eyes before nudging her horse forward.


When Levy returned to the Castle later that morning, she was immediately escorted to the Kings chambers once she dismounted, a page taking Moonlight to the stable. One of her escorts knocked loudly on the heavy wooden door to the Kings rooms, then pushed it open and stepped aside for Levy to enter.

In the room, the King lay bedridden still, at his side was Lady Mira who was helping him finish his oatmeal breakfast. When she cleared her throat to gain attention, the king looked at her with red rimed eyes with dark bags under them. His skin was paler than normal and he looked tired. When his eyes met her she stepped to his side quickly, kneeling down at his side and looking up at him worriedly.

"Sire! You are not looking so well. What's wrong? What is keeping you from your health?"

The King looked down at her, and when he spoke his voice was horse and crackly, "My, my dear girl… you worry me so, you know? What's this… this I hear about you, you not being… in your rooms this morning…? What took you… away from the Castle, so, so early?"

She hung her head at the King's words, she couldn't tell him, and she hated to lie, but lie she must. She wouldn't give Gajeel away, no she couldn't do that. So she lied, "I apologize for making you worry so my Lord. I am guilty of making your condition worse by causing you to worry about me, I am very sorry." She did not raise her head to meet his gaze, rather she could not. She could not look him in the eye, for that would give her away.

The King sighed, leaning back against his pillows and raising a hand to Mira, noting he was done with his meal. There was silence for a short while before the King spoke again, "Levy, my child. These are dangerous and stressful times… you should focus on the end of this… summer, and for… the Harvest Festival… and let's not forget… having a Dragon hunting people…" he paused to catch his breath, Levy closed her eyes when he had spoken about Gajeel, "I do not like, having to tie you up… but with the situation… as it is, I… I really have, no, no choice…" Her head shot up and she stared at him, "I am hereby confining you… to the Castle and it's grounds, you, you are not… too leave under, any… any conditions… am I clear?"

Levy had to bite her lip not to cry out. She wanted to argue, to make her point that she was not a little girl anymore that she had right to go as she pleased, to see who she wanted… But she said nothing and slowly lowered her chin and nodded.

He dismissed the two women thereafter and rested some more. Levy caught ahold of Mira's sleeve after she had closed the door behind her, "Mira!" Her voice was a hard whisper, "What's wrong with him? This is not some stomach sickness due to some bad food!"

Mira nodded chewing her lip as the two woman walked down the hallway together, "I'm not sure, to tell the truth. But then again we have to consider his age, I mean he is nearly a hundred."

"Yes, but something's still not right about this, he only started getting frail this winter, and he showed so much promise this past month, I don't understand it. There has to be something more."

"Hmm, I see what you're saying Levy, but the old do have the habit of, well, going… quite fast at times." Levy came to a halt and since she still had ahold of the other woman's sleeve Mira was jerked to a stop as well, "Mira. Mira, please…" The two woman met each other's gaze for a long moment, "…Oh, I suppose having Jellal use some of his Magic on him wouldn't be a bad idea… If it'll make you sleep better." Levy smiled a little at that, "Thank you Mira." Levy let go of her sleeve and made her way to her rooms for a bath and fresh clothes.

Later that week, in the early evening, Levy was once again on her balcony looking out over the Black Forest and wondering what the Dragon was up too. She had spent her day collecting all of the documents and books she had looked through about Dragons and other beasts thought to be extinct or nearly, like the Snow Lion, and had brought them all to her room where she could pore over them in true secrecy. Now there was nothing unusual about Levy having her nose in a book or two at the same time, but to have so many books about Dragons… that would attract some questions. Keeping her studying to her room also meant that there would be less of a chance of running into Laxus in the Library or in the halls or anywhere really. She had been avoiding him at all costs. She wanted nothing to do with him at all, and the issue of marriage. Regarding the latter of the two issues, Levy was in denial; denial that she had to get married, denial that she was most likely going to be wed to Laxus, denial that she was most likely not be able to see Gajeel after her marriage since Laxus would keep her to his side at all times. Thus she had been held up in her rooms for the past days.

A soft wind fluttered her hair about and the lace that adorned her orange, yellow and white dress. They were unusual colors for royalty, but they were her favorite, and being the Princess, she got them. With a sigh she folded her arms on the top of her balcony wall and rested her chin on them, letting her eyes wonder over the treetops and the distant loom of the mountains. She was too lost in her mind to register the knocking at her door, nor the voice that called out to her.

"Levy? Levy! Come on Lev' open the door! … Ok! I'm coming in!"

Lucy opened the door and popped her head inside. Looking around and seeing no one she entered and shut the door quietly, thinking that Levy might be in the wash room. Her baby blue skirts just skimming over the floor, Lucy made her way around Levy's bed. Noticing the finally carved table just to the side over flowing with books and documents, she moseyed her way over, thinking she could pass a little time until Levy came back. Browsing through the assortment of books and paper, something caught her eye. Moving a few things, she uncovered the dull shine of a book cover. On the cover of the book there was an elegant yet faded picture of a knight slaying a green Dragon that was twice his size. What had caught the candle light was the Dragons' yellow eyes, colored with actual yellow gems. Gazing at the gems the title of the book jumped out at her.

"A Kinght's Guide Too Slaying Dragons"

Her eyes glanced at the other titles of the many books on the table.

"Dragons: Monsters of Man"

"The History of Dragon Slayers"

"Dragons the Demons of the Skies"

"Help! A Dragon's Attacking!"

"The Best Defenses Against Dragons"

"The History of Man Against Dragon"

"Draco and Other Constellations Associated With Dragons"

"Battles of Man and Monsters"

"Strategies When Hunting Dragons"

There were still more and more; books, documents scrolls, loose pieces of paper, all scattered across the table. Flipping through the sheets of paper, Lucy noticed one that was half written with fresh ink. Picking it up she recognized Levy's hand writing. She read the title aloud,

"The Accurate Documentation of Dragons: From The Dragon Himself…"

Lucy gaped at what she had just muttered. From the Dragon… Himself!? What!? She continued reading.

"In the pages that follow is the first ever documentation of Dragons from a Dragons perspective. In all of the acclaimed best books, documents, and papers, there has never once been any effort to understand these creatures. Man has succumbed to his fear of the unknown, and has feared something that warrants it not. This paper is an accurate account of a Dragon, by a Dragon, of a Dragon and ultimately for a Man to reed, comprehend, understand and see the Dragon for what he truly is. Not as the enemy, who captures princesses and fair maidens, who ravages farmers' fields and livestock, terrorizes towns and cities for amusement, but for what they have been created for, the reason why Dragons exist, and undeniable proof that we have nothing to fear from Dragons. If we are to fear anything, it should be ourselves, our ancestors, and all the heinous crimes we have committed against these beings. In the pages that follow there is a record of the History of Dragons, the Intended Existence of Dragons, Dragon Forms, Dragon Abilities and Special Characteristics, Dragon Mates and The Matting Process, and Dragons and Humans: Not so Different. The conclusion of this document shall have a final reason, proof and plea for mankind to rethink the interactions of Man and Dragon in: Dragons: The Protector of Man."

Lucy couldn't believe what she had just read. What in the name of the gods was she up too!? Dragons!? What!? Lucy suddenly couldn't breathe. Why would Levy write such things? What had compelled her to do this? How did she know anything about Dragon's in the first place? It's not like she could have waltzed up and asked a Dragon a few questions while taking notes. Or… could she? Levy had been acting strange… Leaving in the middle of the night, making up tales of where she had been, what had happened –

"LUCY!?"

Lucy gasped and whipped around, hiding the piece of paper behind her back as she came face to face with a shocked Levy.

"Lucy!? What are you – How did you – I… I didn't… hear you come in!" Levy was paler than normal yet her cheeks were flushed. She kept looking from Lucy to the mess on the table behind her. There was an awkward and strained silence that stretched between the two girls. Then finally, Lucy brought forth the paper she had been hiding and held it up,

"Levy? Levy, what is... What is all of this? What's going on here? Why are you so concerned about Dragons? I don't understand Levy. You've been acting so strange, is – is this the reason why? Dragons? Levy! Please…." Lucy was almost whimpering as she questioned her friend, her large brown eyes were nearly overflowing with tears as she spoke, her shoulders were shaking.

Levy let her shoulders slumped and looked down. She knew she wasn't good at lying, especially to Lucy who knew her best of all. Now she had been caught red-handed and she had no words to lie this one away. Cornered, she had nothing left but to tell Lucy the truth… or risk the entire kingdom knowing her secret.

"Lucy… come sit with me." Levy made her way to the oversized bed and crawled up onto it. Lucy was frozen where she stood, but at Levy's look she forced her body to move and went to sit with her friend, "Lucy… now please hear me out ok? I haven't done anything wrong or dangerous… well not really… and I am just fine. I need you to listen to me, and listen with an open mind, until I'm through ok?"

Slowly the blond nodded. Taking a deep breath Levy told Lucy everything. From what happened in the Black Forest the night she snuck out, to her experiences with Gajeel in the cave and how he behaved and treated her, to the meal they had shared and the flight back to her balcony, and how she had felt like there was some sort of attachment between her and Gajeel. How she had felt so cold and empty after he had gone, that she had realized her time with him had been some of the happiest and most thrilling in her life. She explained her wanting to know more about dragons and of her searching the library for all that she could find on Dragons, and how disappointed she was at the perspective all of the accounts were, and her decision to write something that put things… a little differently.

What she didn't tell Lucy was that just the other day she had fought with Laxus, and then run into the arms of the Dragon for comfort afterwards. She couldn't trust Lucy fully with that information yet, since Lucy hadn't said a word since Levy started talking. Now that she was done with her story, Levy waited for Lucy's reaction.

The two girls sat in silence for what felt like years for Levy. Finally Lucy seemed to find her voice again, "…A…a…a Dragon!? You – you met a DRAGON!? Wait a minute here! He ju-"

"Lucy! SHHH! Please! You have to keep quiet! Please Lucy I don't want anyone to know, I don't want to get in trouble!" Levy hissed as she removed the hand that had covered Lucy's mouth.

"Ehhh… sorry… Anyway, he just like, stumbled upon you in the forest!?"

"Err, yeah…"

"Weren't you afraid when you woke up and found him just sitting there watching you!?"

"Well yeah, bu-"

"Oooo! That's so creepy! And strangely romantic too… mmMmmm"

"Romantic!?"

"I mean, like you said, he could have just gobbled you up and been done with it! But no!" Levy interjected, "I told you! Dragon's don't eat people!" Lucy, on the other hand just plowed on threw, "He wanted to save you! He took care of you, and even though he was rough at first, you got him to soften up! Ohh Levy, your charm works on everyone!"

"My char-"

"And when you two were flying through the night sky, as he held you close in his arms and you held onto him in a tight embrace, oooOOoooo! I'm sure that must have stirred something inside him and that's why she stayed after literally dropping you off! Hahaa!"

Levy gave up and just gaped at her friend as she babbled on about her and Gajeel. This… this was not at all what I was expecting! I thought she would be horrified and try to keep me away from him. Now she's practically planning our wedding!? Levy's cheeks flushed and Lucy gasped suddenly.

"Ohhh! I have it! Yes it's perfect! Your little book, the one you're starting about the true side of Dragons, you can make it a fantasy romance novel! Just changed your and Gajeel's names and have it tell about the forbidden love of Princess and Dragon! Oh, you are such a good writer that I bet you could even have it published! And then everyone will read it and then people would start thinking more about Dragons and then…"

Lucy gabbed on, but Levy wasn't listening. If only… She lost herself in thought as Lucy continued talking, making herself more and more excited.

"Huh? Levy? What's wrong?"

Levy snapped her head up, "Huh!? Oh, What? Sorry…" She flushed in embarrassment, she had been caught not paying attention. But Lucy just gave her a warm smile and took one of Levy's hand in hers, "Levy… you like him right?"

"L-lik-e like him? What? I mean… I – I …"

Lucy giggled, then hissed, "Oh come on! Like, like him!?" Levy turned bright red in the face. That was all Lucy needed to know the answer, "Hahaha! OOOKK Levy, Spill. I want to know everything!"

The blood drained from Levy's fast as fast as it had accumulated there, "E-ever-everything!?"

Laughing again Lucy nodded enthusiastically, and Levy gaped at her, "Well… Um… Lucy, Lucy, you have to promise me. Promise me that no matter what, you never tell a soul! No one, and I mean NO ONE can know about this… understand?" Levy's voice had gotten lower and lower, quieter and quieter as she spoke. Lucy had to lean close to Levy to hear her properly. With a serious face Lucy nodded.

The two girls talked for several hours in privet about Dragons, and Levy's adventures and what she was going to do from this point out, and so many things. Finally, Lucy rises and presses a hand to her temple, "Well, Levy. This is so wonderful and amazing and everything but *yawn* Natsu is finally staying in this night instead of going on patrol, and I wouldn't like a little time with my man, if you know what I mean!" she tossed Levy a wink and the two shared a giggle before saying goodnight and Lucy departing.

With a comfortable sigh, Levy yawned then stretched, her white night dress sliding up her legs as she did. Yanking the stubborn fabric back down to her knees she looked around at the mess engulfing her.

Talking with Lucy had actually gone rather well. Lucy hadn't reacted in the manner Levy had expected, but she wasn't really complaining either. Gathering the papers and books and scrolls covering the majority of her bed she went to return to her table when something caught her attention outside. Pausing just before the table, her arms full of papers, she glanced outside. There it was again, a shadow just flitting across the stone. What was it? Depositing her bundle with care, she walked to the still open door and looked about. It was dark out now and the only light was that which came from the numerous candles in her chambers. Stepping out on the balcony she turned around a few times looking everywhere for the thing that which had caught her attention.

When again it did. She stopped mid twirl and looked up with wide honey eyes, reflecting the candle light from her room, as she faced her bed and stared at the roof above her window. The breeze rose and made her skirts and hair flutter, as did the heavy woolen tunic and mess of long, thick black hair of a giant of a figure standing on the Princesses roof top, gazing down at her with gleaming red eyes.


Levy stared at the Dragon on her roof, and the Dragon stared right back at her. He moved a little, coming towards her then vanished right before her eyes. Gasping she was about to cry out when she felt a strong gust of wind behind her. Wheeling around she met the ruby gaze of the Dragon once more as he sat on the wall of her balcony.

"G – Gajeel!" her voice was a whisper but he heard it for he smirked at her. The moonlight glinted off the many piercings in his face and lingered in his red eyes that softened a touch when he looked at her. Standing with ease and grace he stepped towards her and ruffled her hair, letting his hand linger in the silky strands before repeatedly pulling through them slowly.

"Shrimp."

Levy scrunched up her face at the nick-name but didn't say anything, or rather, couldn't as his large hand ran so gently through her hair, his nails lightly scrapping her scalp as he worked them into her blue locks. Finally she was able to half form words again,

"Wh – What are you doing here?"

A smirk spread across his face, his white teeth glinting in the moon light, he almost looked evil for a moment before he leaned forward so that they were inches apart, his hand holding her head still so that she couldn't pull away.

Flushing, his smirk widened, "Me? Gihihi, I've come for… dinner…" his voice hissed through his teeth gravely, deep and seductive, which had her insides squirming in delight, and then in disgust and fear as when he had said sunk in. She gasped and he chuckled, moving his head to trace the shell of her ear with his lips, his nose nuzzling into her hair where he inhaled deeply and sighed, "Ya' smell good enough… ta' eat! Gihihi!"

Her jaw dropping in surprise as she realized he was teasing her. Understanding flashing in her eyes, she puffed up her cheeks and glared at his shoulder, as that was what she could see of him at this angle. Balling her hands into fists she pounded on the Dragons broad chest relentlessly. Taken aback, he straightened looking down at her suspiciously. When he realized she was being playful – thought her face and red cheeks said otherwise – he grinned down at her, puffing up his chest a little more just to piss her off and throwing back his head and cackling into the night.

Levy froze, "Gajeel! SSSHHHHHH! Do you want to wake the entire castle!? Hush!" Suddenly panicked, what if someone heard them!? What if they were caught? His laughter faded out and he grinned down at her, "So wha'? Let them wake, let them try to find me, Gihihi!"

Levy narrowed her eyes at him, "Excuse me!? Let them? The first thing that will be ordered is for guards to come ad make sure I'm safe, and this is where you are then you'd be in big trouble!" She glared at him once again, her fists tightening against his bare chest.

The Dragon's smile slipped a little, then his eyes softened and he smirked down at her, leaning forward a little so that they were once more nearly touching, "An' they'd find ya' here with me too, Princess. Then what'll ya' do? Just think, those guards will come bustin' through the door and see ya' clinging ta' me as yer' doin' now, and then what'll they think, Hmm?"

Levy didn't miss a beat, "They'll think you put me under some sort of spell and skin you." Gajeel grinned, "An' we don't want that now, do we?" She smirked triumphantly at him, "No, so shut up!"

He caught the glint in her eye as she leaned away from him and held him at arms-length. Gazing at her for a moment he rolled his eyes and straightened up. His sudden movement caught her off guard and she stumbled, as she hand been using him to balancer herself. Gajeel easily caught her and scooped her up in his arms as he cleared the balcony in two strides and was at her bedside where he sat her down, his wings folding closer to his back to allow him to fit through the doorway with ease. Levy had instantly clung to his neck when he picked her up, and now she didn't let go of him, holding him with in her reach as she laced her fingers together behind his neck. His eyes met hers.

"Why are you here, Gajeel?"

"…"

"…?"

"…I wanted ta' see if you'd been eaten by the wolves tryin' ta' find me again. Gihihi!"

Levy deadpanned, falling backwards onto the bed with a groan and soft "Whump!" as Gajeel continued to snicker over her.

"…Gaaajeeelll!" Her whining made him laugh harder and he put his hands on his hips, grinning down at her. Levy glared halfheartedly up at him and sighed, "Really now, it's quite dangerous for you to be here…at the castle, of all things my privet rooms. You'd be killed if someone were to catch you…"

Relaxing his stance some the Dragon looked around the candle lit room, mulling over his next words, " well, it's not like ya' can come to me in the Forest, and ya' had said something 'bout learnin' 'bout Dragons'n such so, well, 'ere I am." He scratched at the base of one long, twisted black horns.

Levy sat up straight at his words, eyes wide and heart racing, "Really!? You came all this way to tell me more about Dragons!?" The Dragon seemed taken aback by her sudden change in attitude but rolled with it after a moment, "Sure."

Levy scrambled to her feet and dashed to the overflowing table that held the massive pile of books and papers, frantically digging through the mess and pulling out several items. A vile of ink, a quill and rolls of paper, as well as a book with soft leather cover and binding. Dashing back to her bed she setup the ink and quill on the bedside table before jumping onto the bed and settling down cross-legged and looking up at him expectantly. The Dragon stared at her with an amused look as she scuttled about and settled down. After a moment of the two staring at each other, the Dragon sighed and moved to sit at the foot of her bed, folding his legs under him and wrapping his tail around his knees, his wings relaxing some as he too settled in.

"Well, what'ya wanna' know?" he asked with some reservation.

"Everything!" was her simple response, causing the Dragon to sigh once more, but then she merely giggled and gave him an amused look, "Let's start with your appearance. Why is it that you have parts of a Dragon and parts of a man? You're like half human half Dragon."

A studded brow rose at her boldness, "All Dragons are like this."

Silence.

"…"

"…"

Sigh, "All Dragons are like this in the beginning." She blinked at him. He rolled his eyes, she wasn't kidding when she said everything, "Okay okay, let me start over. Dragon's is ancient creatures, we were there in the beginnin' when the world was created by the Gods. The Dragons were the first real beings of earth, and everything that became the earth became part of a Dragon's as well. It's kinda hard ta' explain." He rubbed that horn again awkwardly, but seeing that she was still interested, and scribbling like mad, he pressed on with a deep breath.

"Dragons ruled the earth for eons, even after the Gods created humans, ya' know, as mirrors of their' divine bein's 'er whatever, 'n the Dragons were ordered to protect the humans, but the Dragons revolted and swore humans as their enemies 'n turned agains' the Gods 'n tried ta' destroy the humans."

"But why!?"

"Wha'?"

"Why would the Dragons turn away from the Gods who created them?"

"'Cause the Dragons were supposed ta' be the divine beings of the Gods 'n represent the Gods on earth, but the Gods are proud and weren't satisfied with just the Dragons and made the human race also. See the Dragons had been given Magic from the Gods 'n usin' that Magic they cut all bonds from the Gods before the Gods could make the Dragon's part'o the earth again. So the Gods couldn' destroy the Dragons so they gave Magic ta' the humans ta' fight back, but the humans, bein' like the Gods, were greedy 'n wanted more power fer themselves 'n warred with themselves as well as the Dragons. Well that pissed the Gods off so they took back the Magic of the humans and left them to us Dragons. 'N well, I guess that's kinda it."

"Oh. But why do you look like both a Dragon and a human?"

"Oh, right. Well it's said that the Dragons of old wanted ta spite the Gods 'n used their Magic ta' appear more human and play tricks on the Gods. I guess over time they just kept the form. We can either take the form of a Dragon or a human-Dragon like this-" he gestured to himself. Levy nodded and continued her frantic scribbling, filling her third page and moving on to the next, "-but taken' a full Dragon's form take a shit ton'o magic power ta' do 'n maintain so it's not all that often we do it see."

He watched as the princess continued to take notes, noticing that she had some ink on her cheek and a smudge just below it where she had tried to wipe it away.

"That's all fascinating! And so different from what we were taught as the history of humans and Dragons and the Gods and everything! Now, if you don't mind, I've got a few more questions about this…"

And so they plunged on getting deeper into the history of Dragons and mankind. They talk for hours well into the night and it wasn't until the great clock tower in the center of Magnolia struck three in the morning did the Dragon notice that he had talked the little Princes to sleep. As soon as he realized his audience was asleep he stopped talking midsentence and watched her. Sitting with her, he moved to stand next to the sleeping girl his fingers finding their way to her blue locks. He loved the feeling of the silken strands through his fingers, and the color, never before had he seen such a shade, it was beautiful. Just like the woman who's scalp his claws scraped against lightly now. Glancing between her and the still open doors to the night, he let out a sigh. Easing himself away from her, he made to leave slowly. As soon as his hand left her hair, Levy frowned and opened her eyes. Blearily, she peered at the back of the Dragon as he made his way silently to the open doors. Instantly wide awake she shot up and hissed his name.

"Gajeel!"

Hand on the door he paused and looked over his shoulder at her. Seeing she was sitting up and now wide awake, he frowned and turned back to her, "Levy, it's late… go back ta' sleep now."

"No!"

Taken aback by her sudden outburst, and even more so as she scrambled off the bed and to him, he looked down at her as she wrapped her arms around his middle, giving him the full force of her puppy-eyes, "No, Gajeel please, stay a little longer!"

"Levy…"

"Please… Gajeel…."

He was no match for her pleading.

Sighing, he pulled the doors closed with a soft "click" and, rolling his eyes at her sudden smile, once again picked her up by her middle and stepped back to the bed, practically throwing her onto the cushioned surface. He half expected her to lecture him as he climbed on the bed and sat at the head, his wings and tail stretching and falling on the edges of her bed. He looked ridiculous there and she giggled as he yanked the blankets back for her to climb in, but instead she coddled up next to his side and wrapped her arms around his massive one comparatively, pressing her cheek into his shoulder with a happy sigh. He tucked her in with another roll of his eyes.

"Oi," she looked up at him, "Only 'til ya' fall asleep. Then I'm leavin'." His voice was harsh as he tried to be authoritative, but Levy just grinned at him and snuggled closer, closing her eyes once more. Figuring it wouldn't take her long to pass out, Gajeel closed his eyes as well, his hand once again finding her hair and stroking it as he dozed.

In a half awake half sleeping state, his mind wandered, questioning his actions. Why had he really come to see her? He didn't remember making the decision to visit her, he just found himself approaching the castle. He had perfect timing, he discovered, as he could hear her returning to her chambers as he alighted on the rooftop just over her balcony doors. He listened to her moving about and the shuffling of papers and snapping shut of books as he tried to understand how and why he was there. His Dragon instinct were telling him something but he didn't understand. What he did know was that he wanted to be around this little Princess. When he was with her, thing that seemed out of balance when she was gone, righted itself. The past days since their last encounter had been restless for him. The world seemed somehow incomplete without her there.

He had noticed the confusion the first night they met, when she had fallen from her horse and he found her in that shallow creek. He held no reason to pick her up, tend to her injuries and bring her back to his home; but he had. It was almost as if he couldn't leave her, a human lost in the Black Forest where some creature or another would probably find her and that would be the end of it. Something told him that he couldn't let that happen. Something deep in his core told him to take her with him. Something he had never felt before. Then it had happened, that last night when she had cuddled up to his side, like she was now, he had felt so warm, so comfortable and relaxed. He was at ease for the first time in centuries. He didn't want the warmth to leave him again, and so when they had stood looking at each other on the balcony that night, he was cold, so cold, and he had reached out to touch her to feel the warmth burst in his chest, radiate through his body.

At that moment something inside him told him to stay. To stay with her, wherever she went, he would go too. So when she had called him back, he had been all too happy to stay, and she had kissed him and the warmth he felt had multiplied. He was overcome with emotion and an intense need to follow her and do things he had never thought about with a woman in his life, well not of her choosing that was.

And here he was now, resting next to the one thing in the world that made him feel warm and happy since Metalicana had been there still, and he knew that soon he would have to leave her, and again he would become cold, so cold. He hated being cold now. Before he knew her warmth, the cold didn't bother him, but even the thickest of furs or the strongest of fires couldn't keep him warm like she could, with just a single touch and he was on fire… His mind was tired, and he wanted to enjoy this warmth while it lasted. Relaxing and letting go, the Dragon slipped into sleep.

Hours later his insides scream for him to wake up, while the warmth of the person next to him seduced him to stay. He opened his eyes slowly. Rolling his head away from the intoxicating smells from his left, he turned his gaze to outside. Instantly he was on his feet, adrenaline pumping through his veins and panic gripping his mind. No, no! He couldn't be caught in the sunlight, not here, not when she was so close… He spun around faster than he had gotten up, his eyes wide as he stared at her, his nostrils flared as he breathed in her scent. Levy was on her side facing him, her face was relaxed and free of stress and worry. She seemed so comfortable and inviting and warm… he wanted to jump right back into that bed and hide under the blankets with her until night fall.

But he hadn't the time as the sky was an alarming shade of early morning grey, he had to hurry. Whipping around, he made for the balcony and threw open the doors, only to turn around just as fast and return to her side. Bending down, he planted his lips firmly on hers. Letting his body soak in all that was her for a moment through his lips, he let her go, planted one more on her forehead and sprinted for the balcony. Clearing the wall with ease he dove into the remainder of the night, his wings carrying him silently away.

Rolling over in her bed, levy pulled the blankets a little tighter around herself, a smile on her lips.


Well i won't be updating for a while, like a month, i've got finals this week and then it's Christmas and then... I'm going to the Caribbean... for two weeks... hate me HATE me HATE ME! lol you jelly? yes you are. anyway UNTIL NEXT TIME!