This is a story that primarily follows Natsu Dragneel and Lucy Heartfilia past the conclusion of the Tartaros arc. Written for nalu4emily & dragonballwish - Dragon Rage can also be found over on AO3/Archive of Our Own!
Dedicated to: Aspartame Boy, Angel, FairyTail96, Copperreign12, Nami4Life, and Blue.
Thank you to everybody for your kind comments, favorites, and support. It means a lot and I really do appreciate it!
Summary: After being pardoned by King Toma for his stunt at the Games, Natsu is surprised when he is pulled aside by the Crown Princess who makes a simple request: make Lucy happy again. The fire dragon slayer quickly figures out this request is easier said than done. He stubbornly refuses failure though and through different actions he slowly restores his abandoned friend.
Chapter 6: Restore
They were brought out of their initial shock as hundreds of foot soldiers stormed into the now decimated Domus Flau stadium. With magic spears in hand they surrounded the dragon slayer who observed them curiously. He heard Lucy shout something, but ignored it for the moment as he instead raised his fists, flames swirling around them, and prepared himself for another brawl.
"So you guys want to throw down too, eh?" Natsu asked, revealing his sharp canines gleefully.
Man it's great being back home!
"We have been commanded to bring you to the Mercurius Palace under the direct order of the Defense Minister. Natsu Dragneel, you are here by under arrest." The lead Rune Knight announced as the tip of their spears began to give off a faint glow. "Permission has been granted to us to take you in by any means necessary should you choose to oppose us." That startled him a little as he relinquished his stance and cut his flames off.
"Wait, what? Hang on guys I was just playing around here." Natsu laughed trying to be casual in hopes of calming them down. He knew he could easily take a large majority of them out, but going against the kingdom wasn't the brightest idea. Plus, one of those spears was bound to clip him and who knows what type of magic they were infused with. Instantly transportation came to mind, the very thought making him shudder. He finally glanced around and noticed the Coliseum was in complete ruins having nearly burned all the way down.
Did I do that?
Natsu looked back over to where his two friends had been and noticed both were now gone. The entire stadium had been evacuated as those present inside the arena were the only ones remaining. He heard a crackle and saw the spears light up threateningly.
Oh man, I'm in for it now.
"Destroying property, specifically one as grand as Domus Flau, has consequences." The one in charge stated.
"That was on accident!" He argued back.
"Whether intentional or not, you have been summoned to meet with the Defense Minister, the King, and his entourage."
Natsu growled in annoyance knowing he had no choice but to abide to the man. He wanted to get back to his buddy, but looked like he would have to take a quick field trip first.
"Alright, fine." He huffed as he pointed at the man. "Take me to them." In lightning fast speed, once his guard had been lowered, he was blasted with several different spells as he stumbled and fell on his knees. "What the hell was that for?!"
The fire mage didn't get a response as his hands were forced in front of him and he was cuffed at the wrists. He knew he could easily snap them, but for some reason his fire refused to listen to him.
"Magic sealing stones." The Rune Knight smirked forcing him back up to his feet. "If the law is followed, you should be sitting in a jail cell for the next few years. Take him away." He directed to a group of his closest men as the dragon slayer was led out of the arena.
He almost felt like a celebrity as he was escorted into the castle. Natsu, despite the serious situation he now found himself in, still thought this whole thing was pretty funny. He had just returned from a year long training trip and now here he was being being led by a group of Rune Knights in cuffs to his fate.
Well isn't this just great.
"I gotta give you props man." One of the Rune Knights next to him began, snapping him out of his thoughts. "That was pretty bold to demolish Domus Flau as easily as you did."
"Uh, thanks?" Natsu responded unsure whether to take that as a compliment or...
"Who knows, maybe His Majesty will grant you with a lenient sentence." The guard mumbled more to himself.
"Are you really the mystery man in the black cloak that the media has been trying to find out the true identity this entire time?" Another asked. Natsu looked down at his attire and realized he still was adorning the cloak.
"Perhaps?" He tilted his head unsure as the silence returned. His enhanced hearing picked up on several different voices as they finally reached the throne room, which he was grateful for.
"What? Did I hear that right? We're just going to let him walk free?" The man in charge who restrained the dragon slayer back in the arena asked in shock. "No charges, nothing at all?"
"Yes." The ruler of Fiore answered with his usual smile.
"Yo! How's it going guys?" Natsu asked without a care in the world as he threw his hand up in greeting. "Been a while hasn't it? Haven't been here since that party. That was a great time, eh?" He chuckled aloud remembering when he shocked everyone by showing up in royal clothes and wearing the King's crown.
"This is serious!" The guard exclaimed not a fan at all of letting the slayer get away with his crime. "The only reason you're here now is because you ruined the Games and caused major damage to the Domus Flau Coliseum! You need punished and-" He stopped after hearing the King's daughter failing to conceal her amusement.
"Sorry about that!" Natsu apologized halfheartedly. "I guess I could of held back just a little. My flames just got away from me that's all."
"Shut your mouth!" The Minister of Defense, Darton, and the one who summoned the wizard to questioning in the first place, ordered.
"Jeez, chill out. I was only joking." He quietly spoke not wanting to anger the short statured man anymore for fear of him lashing out.
At least the King is on my side.
"It has been a while, it brings me great joy to see you are doing well." His eyes fell over onto the Princess who was looking at him brightly. For some reason he felt her words held a different meaning. "You've done so much for us."
Her words landed into his brain as he tried figuring out what she was talking about. He couldn't. "Whatcha mean?" At that Hisui let loose another round of giggles.
"I'm sure you'll remember sometime." She said as the armored man next to her roughly laughed.
"I see you haven't changed much." Arcadios stated. Darton walked over and crossed his arms behind his back.
"Since the pleasantries are over, we need to discuss his punishment for such a destructive crime."
"Now Darton..." Hisui opened up defending the pinkette before her. "If it wasn't for Natsu and the rest of Fairy Tail's heroic actions against the dragons and Tartaros, we wouldn't be where we are today. The city of Crocus and the entire kingdom of Fiore were saved from the brink of destruction countless times. Surely you haven't forgotten about that?" She asked making sure to stand up for the defenseless mage.
"It makes perfect sense that our reunion here today would be after such uproar. It's nice to see you again young man." Arcadios nodded in respect causing the dragon slayer to grin.
"Yeah, you too! Crazy to think a year ago Hisui threw us into a dungeon that was supposed to be impenetrable." He spoke out without thinking before quickly realizing his mistake. The green-haired girl sat frowning in response. "Sorry, I didn't mean it like that!"
"No... you have every right to think that way. My foolish actions nearly cost you and your guildmates' lives. There is no justification for that." Hisui sadly spoke.
To her surprise, he attempted to move toward her before the guard next to him grabbed his shoulder and held him in place. He glared at the man before deciding on ignoring him all together. Instead, he simply sat down on the carpet and closed his eyes.
"It wasn't your fault." Natsu started explaining. "That Rogue from the future took advantage of you..." His kindhearted voice trailed off for a few seconds as his thoughts recalled a specific event, one that he never wanted to go through ever again. "If it makes you feel any better, I don't care what happened back there. I bet Luce, Mira, Wendy, Happy and the rest who was with us don't either. We've already forgiven you. It's time you forgave yourself." He finished with his signature grin present as he snapped the cuffs that restrained his hands. Standing up, he began to walk away.
"He broke his cuffs? How did he do that!" Darton hollered wanting to interrogate him and even caused Hisui and Arcadios to wonder how he managed to pull a feat like that off.
The sealing stones were designed to prevent the wearer's magic from being released and nullify it... so how did he break them as if they were made out of paper?
"Your Majesty, no punishment at all?!" The guard questioned with both confusion and amazement.
"This year's Games were rather boring. So for making a memorable final day ending, you have my thanks!" Toma jumped up out of his chair smiling and Natsu returned it.
"Alright! I didn't really mean to but glad it all worked out in the end!" He cheered with the ecstatic ruler. "See ya all later!" He waved farewell as he turned and walked away.
Time to get back to Happy!
The King, Hisui, Arcadios, Darton, and the few guards stationed in the room all watched the former active mage depart. His cloak flared out from behind him making it look like he had wings that were about to take flight.
"Father." Hisui expressed catching his attention. "I would like to accompany Natsu out of the palace, if that's fine with you." She received a nod in return and stood up taking her leave.
"How did they let you walk free!"
"No way in hell you just destroyed the Grand Magic Games arena and are getting nothing for it!"
"Guys, I think we should leave him be. His Majesty was fine with it."
"This is why the Magic Council should have disbanded you and your rowdy guild years ago when they had the chance!"
"Do you think he even knows Fairy Tail is no more? If not, wait until he finds out!"
That last remark stung the dragon slayer a little, but he brushed it aside. These lowlife soldiers couldn't hold a measly candle to him and they all knew it too.
Let them get their cheap shots in, at least I have people who count on me.
The shouts and curses from the surrounding guards went silent as they all hurriedly kneeled in the hallway. Natsu was more confused as he had been a little out of it since leaving the throne room. It all made sense, however once he realized who had followed him.
The Princess glared at the assembled guards after hearing some of what they had said. "He has been pardoned. You're all free to go back to whatever it was that you were doing before you started provoking him." She finished icily.
They quickly scrambled. With that being taken care of she turned back to the pink-haired man.
"How are you, Natsu?" Hisui smiled.
"Good, Happy and I did a lot of hardcore training out in the wilderness." He heard her giggle. "What about you and the kingdom?"
"I have been doing well, thank you for asking. As for the kingdom..." She placed her hand under chin and thought. "It's doing better now after you and your guild took out Tartaros."
"It wasn't really anything special."
"What? You can't be serious." She said incredulously.
"All we did is defeat an enemy like the ones before them." He shrugged.
"Natsu, give yourself some credit. You and you friends played a huge part in why we still have magic to this day." Hisui tried again hoping he would see her point.
"Well, when you put it like that... we really did do a number on those guys and save the world again didn't we? Although this time we may have gone a little overboard." He chuckled while remembering his fight with Jackal and the other demons.
"It was for the best, they were trying to practically end the world after all. Besides when have you ever worried about how much destruction you caused?" She explained joining him in laughter. As Natsu and Hisui continued to walk through the vast and elegant hallways of Fiore's castle, she slowed their pace. Before he could fully register it, she grabbed his arm and turned him to face her directly.
"Uh, Princess?" He asked a little confused at her motives. Hisui shook her head as she gave the fire wizard a playful glare.
"None of that formality right now, Natsu. I need to talk to you personally... as Lucy's friend." Her statement caused his eyes to dilate.
He had forgotten that his partner had been in the grandstands when they took him away. She definitely wouldn't be pleased that he had once again disappeared on her. Natsu slightly nodded, motioning with his head for her to continue.
"She's been holding strong, but... the disbanding of the guild and your absence has been really hard on her emotionally." Hisui described. "I've tried my best to keep in touch, but my increased duties here in the palace prevent me from contacting her very much anymore."
"Has she been alone this entire time?" Natsu whispered, a tsunami of guilt nearly drowning him.
"She's had rare contacts with a few of your guild members, but other than that, yes Natsu. Lucy has been entirely on her own."
The dragon slayer shut his eyes in frustration fearing the worst. He knew leaving was a bad idea, but he didn't have many choices. Even now that he had harnessed the power to control the darkness within... how long would it be until he lost it? Was it really worth leaving his best friend behind for an entire year, especially all alone right after Fairy Tail had shut down? The Crown Princess could see his distress and did something that surprised her own self. She suddenly hugged the fire wizard and didn't let go.
"Lucy told me what happened at the end of the war." Hisui whispered into his ear. "I'm so sorry for your loss."
Natsu had been on his own for such a long time he almost forgot what physical human contact even felt like, considering Happy's small size. It was a little odd to be in her embrace, but he accepted it nonetheless. Finally, after a few more seconds, he pulled away.
"Thanks Hisui." He spoke, beaming honestly. "Igneel would want me to strong, so that's what I'm going to do."
"That sounds like the Fairy Tail wizard I've come to know this past year." She chortled after the moment had passed as she once again turned serious. "Natsu, can I make a request?"
"Sure, I'd do anything for one of my friends." He affirmed. "What is it though?"
Hisui turned around, looking away from him, as she thought seriously to herself.
She needs this, without it she will never pull herself out of the void she's fallen into.
"More like a direct order." She announced spinning back to face him as he looked utterly confused. "As the future queen of Fiore, Natsu Dragneel your punishment for completely wrecking Domus Flau is... to restore Lucy Heartfilia."
It was like he had been turned into a lightning rod and struck repeatedly. That was the last thing Natsu was expecting Hisui to say and so it was accurate to say he was floored. "Huh?!"
"I already know Lucy means a lot to you, whether you realize it yourself or not is another story. However, you of all people is who she needs right now. I firmly believe you are the solution to all her problems. So, as one friend of Lucy's to another, bring her back please." She saw her speech had truly impacted him as he tried to form a response.
"Even though the guild may not be around as of now, I accept. Not because you asked Hisui, but because Lucy is special to me and I won't lose her like I did my father. Not this time." His powerful statement didn't go missed by her as she watched him head for the doors to exit.
"Good luck, Natsu." She called out one last time as she saw him stop his hand just before pushing it open.
"Don't you worry, Fairy Tail will be in action before you know it! Regarding Lucy... you can count on me." As if entering a new adventure he pushed them open, leaving his troubles behind, and felt himself enveloped in sunlight.
Lucy had tried to grab his attention as the guards stormed the place, but he never responded to her shouts. She and Happy quickly raced through the evacuating and frenzied crowd as the Celestial wizard knew her friend would be taken into the palace most likely. After getting to the gate, however she was barred from entrance as a Rune Knight informed her that an important 'meeting' was taking place. It didn't take a genius to put the pieces together and she knew that's where Natsu must of been taken.
So, without anything else to do for the time being, she sat on the stone wall across the palace doors with Happy and awaited the one person she was waiting to see. On cue, the cloak covered pinkette walked out, holding an arm over his eyes to block out the sun as he froze on the spot. There she stood in all her golden glory. He heard her laugh next to the flying exceed.
"I'm surprised you're not behind bars right now."
"Aye!" The blue cat agreed thinking his pal would be underground by now.
"You think they'd ever lock such an awesome wizard like me with a bunch of clowns that I put in there in the first place?" Natsu questioned with a smirk. "You don't actually think they would, do you?!" He stated worriedly needing a confidence booster after rethinking on it.
"I don't know... depends on what issue they would be dealing with." Lucy joked before growing quiet. She stared at him like she was lost and was trying to find something past him. It was like he was foreign to her, an object that wasn't supposed to be in her direct sight.
"Lucy?" He spoke cautiously with some concern at her weirdness. "You good?"
"Yeah, I'm fine." She nodded shaking her head which wasn't missed by the keen dragon slayer.
"If you say so." He accepted while noticing the far away look in her eyes still. Hisui's words replayed in his mind as he tried to think about where to start. Before he could though, the blonde was walking away.
"Hey! Where ya going?" He asked.
"I'm just going on a walk to clear my mind." Her reply was short and a little forceful.
"Is it okay if we join you?" No answer was received. Natsu and Happy eyed one another carefully before shrugging and following after her.
They trailed her for a while as she entered and left countless shops in the Crocus market. They salivated after seeing all the food and were thankful as some venders allowed them a free sample, really if anything to just get the odd duo from scaring away possible customers. A flash of yellow caught his eye as he saw his best friend departing from another store making her way towards the plaza.
"Come on Happy!" He called out to the cat while stuffing down a free roll.
"Aye sir!"
They arrived at a water fountain. Natsu and Happy sat along the edge while Lucy's attention was occupied entirely on the water itself. Happy was confused as ever wondering what her strange behavior was all about, but Natsu on the other hand knew exactly what she must be seeing.
"It was like that for me too." His sudden opening up nearly made her fall into the fountain as she stabalized herself. "Seeing any type of fire for a while caused me to think about Igneel." Natsu motioned for his partner to give them some space to which the exceed complied.
He always believed he was left all alone the day his father disappeared. An entire year away from humanity changed that mindset though and helped him realize how wrong he had been. Not only did the fire dragon king's spirit burn bright within every time he summoned a flame, but Happy had been there every step of the away and never lost faith in him. Lucy on the other hand had lost the very source of her inspiration to life as a runaway and then he had to go and screw things up even more by taking off himself. That's not even mentioning her longest known friend had disappeared right before that entire situation even happened.
"It's okay to be sad." He whispered while approaching her, maintaining distance between them. His narrowed eyes could see her posture change as she was reliving the very moment Aquarius' key had shattered. His own mind saw his headless father deceased after a brutal confrontation. Acnologia's cackles filled him with fury and he wanted nothing more than to strike the black winged bastard down.
Gritting his teeth he pushed his own failures aside. Natsu put his focus on the current problem. He was unsure of what to do, so he acted upon what he thought was best. The dragon slayer would simply be there for her. He walked closer and stood next to her as their shoulders touched. Silence settled for a few minutes and they both listened to the peaceful sound of flowing water.
"You know... Aquarius said that if I didn't break her key that I would lose my life and Fairy Tail." Lucy abruptly stated.
"She did?"
"Yeah, and while she may of unknowingly predicted the guild disbanding... she was wrong on one thing."
"What's that?" He asked as she had now fully captured his interest. Taking a large breath, the Celestial wizard placed her arm behind his back and leaned against him.
"If I didn't let her go... I would lose you."
He felt her trembles and feared she would begin crying. Natsu hated whenever Lucy cried, more so though if he was the cause behind it. The pinkette knew he had to make up for it. He had to fix this. His mouth opened but words failed to come out. He desperately wanted, no needed, to reassure her everything would be okay. Long, spiky hair shielded his frustrated orbs as he instead closed up and dejectedly listened to her muffled sobs.
After letting Lucy express her sorrows, Natsu decided to try and cheer her up by going somewhere to eat. His plan seemed to work as he was able to take her mind off of her loneliness and spend time with her. He and Happy also were able to fill themselves up with food which was a great thing! The sun began to set and so Lucy led them to her new apartment. It was much nicer than her one back in Magnolia, although its increased size definitely contributed to that factor. Her two hooligans gaped at the inside once she unlocked the door.
"Wow!"
"Fancy!"
"You actually live here?" He questioned after comparing her old living space to the new one.
"Yep!" She smiled as she showed them around the place. They had to take a detour momentarily as Natsu caught sight of the fridge and instantly raided some of its contents, earning himself a smack upside the head.
"Ow! What was that for Luce?!" Natsu whined.
"You've been here for less than five minutes and already robbed me!" She exclaimed hitting him on the head again much to his annoyance. He stopped brooding, however when he heard her giggling and was pleased to see her coming around finally.
I guess harassment is the answer. Erza would be proud.
"Oh yeah, you guys don't have a place to stay do you?" Lucy wondered aloud and saw them shake their heads to the side. "You can crash here for a while. I don't mind."
"Really?" The two shouted excitedly. "Thank you merciful goddess Lucy!" They praised in unison getting on their knees and bowing down to her.
"Cut it out!" She yelled back embarrassedly hoping their noise wouldn't carry over to the rest of the building's inhabitants. "You better not mess anything up while you're here!" She threatened, warning them with a raised finger.
"No promises!" He laughed and she sighed defeatedly. His rapturous laughter made his hair fall into his eyes and he forced it out of his way. That gave Lucy an idea. Without even telling him her plan, she summoned Cancer and pointed at the dragon slayer with a smirk.
"H-Hey now, wait just a second!" Natsu stuttered with some fright clearly evident as he thought she had finally lost it. "It was just a joke, Luce!" Multiple sharp swipes raced around him as he strangely felt his head be much lighter than before.
"There you go! Good as new right?" She asked while recalling the Celestial Spirit.
"Yeah, thanks!" He said appreciatively, glad he wasn't dead.
After settling in for the night, and once her friends finished cleaning themselves up, the three gathered around each other on the floor in her living room. Lucy couldn't hide her enjoyment of having the two back in her life as she chuckled while listening to their mini argument.
It seems like even after a year they've barely changed.
Natsu's stomach growled causing them all to erupt into more laughter and Lucy decided to fix a small meal for them to eat. After they finished, or more so after Natsu completed his quest of stuffing his face, she brought out some board games for them to play. Happy explained their encounter with Gildarts while she delivered the final blow to Natsu's winning chances for the seventh time in a row.
"I win again!" She cheered.
"No fair! I call a rematch!" He challenged knowing she must have been cheating somehow.
"You want to get beat, again?" Lucy fired back teasingly.
"We're playing until I win!"
Natsu never won. After getting defeated for the twentieth straight time, the dragon slayer yielded at last. It just didn't seem to be his day.
I'll definitely get her next time for sure!
Happy, exhausted after all the traveling done, laid on a small pillow that Lucy brought out for him and began to snooze. They both watched him for a few minutes before something caught the fire wizard's eye. In one of her side closets, he could see a familiar looking outfit on a hanger. It was black colored with yellow trimming and had skulls designed along the sleeves and down the back. The jacket was torn in several places and even had burn marks along some areas. Lucy's eyes landed where his had as she watched his reaction.
"You kept it?" He asked a little unsure if he was looking at the same piece of clothing he wore the night his father died.
"Yeah, I did. When I patched you up that night you took a shower and changed into your old casual outfit." She confirmed.
"Why?"
"I didn't really get a chance to give it back to you, even though you may have never wanted it anyways, but truthfully... I thought since it held some memory of Igneel you might want to keep it. So, I've saved it this entire time."
He was stunned at her thoughtfulness and smiled brightly. "That's awesome. Yeah, it does mean something to me despite just looking like a strange jacket from Tartaros." He looked at her in a different light for once. "Thanks, Luce."
"Don't mention it." She returned his smile, attempting to conceal a yawn. Natsu could see how drowsy she was and knew she needed some much needed shut eye.
"Get you some sleep. I'll crash on the couch." He suggested and watched her tiredly nod and head for her bedroom.
"Goodnight Natsu." She sleepily bid.
"Night."
His back landed on the couch next to the sleeping exceed as he wondered back to Hisui's request.
I think we're getting closer.
Natsu tried to sleep. He just could not fall into a deep slumber for some reason. Perhaps he wasn't as tired as he usually was, but the pink-haired man wasn't even close to achieving any type of rest. Grumbling he slid off the couch and headed for her bedroom door.
She'll kill me if she finds out I did this. So, I'll have to be back on the couch before morning.
Natsu cracked the door open and slipped into her bedroom. He made sure to move stealthily as he crossed in front of her bed... only to trip over something lying hidden. He hit the wooden floor and cursed under his breath. Natsu regained his footing and glanced over his shoulder. Lucy was wrapped in her covers, but her face was exposed allowing the light seeping in through the window to reflect off her. He stood mesmerized by her beauty in that moment as he wondered what these peculiar feelings in his chest were. It felt like his insides were going to explode.
With all his strength, he tore his eyes away from her and looked at the massively covered wall in front of him. It was a magnified chart of Fiore. He caught sight of notes along the mammoth sized map, circled locations, question marks, and all types of different framework. Portraits were lined up as he recognized familiar black, red, blue and white-haired friends. The more he looked the more he saw.
"She's been tracking everyone..." Natsu whispered out to himself, not realizing the blonde had awoken and noticed his shadowy figure standing in the moonlight. His eyes finally found the trouble Hisui had foreshadowed.
It was a miniature scaled picture, but that didn't change the importance it held. He actually recalled this day fondly as Lucy had been extraordinarily excited when she learned they would have the entire day to themselves to explore Crocus. She of course decided to spend the entire evening with him and his exceed, to where this picture was soon after created. That night they had to be back in their lodge before midnight, and it just so happened to be their fateful encounter with Sting and Rogue. He noticed this side of the wall, the one closer to his name written in big bold red letters, was more worn down and had suffered some sort of damage over the last year.
Near that same picture, were mini notes stuck and taped against the wall. They weren't really notes, more like unanswered prayers.
Where could they be?
Why can't I locate you two? Are you even still in Fiore?
I miss you guys. When are you returning home?
Please come back, Natsu. I need you.
For the first time, he began to understand just how much Lucy had actually suffered in his year long absence. He knew how devastating Aquarius had been for her, but it shook him to the core that he had been a major piece in her near self-destruction. This is the place she must of came to vent, scream, and cry about them abandoning her. He sometimes regretted spending an extra six months training with his new power gifted from Igneel. But if he had returned before he was ready and hurt Lucy... he never could of lived with himself after that.
Yeah, that's all it was. I just needed to be stronger before I could face her and the rest of them.
Small arms suddenly wrapped around his bare mid-section and he felt something bury itself into his spine. They forcefully clung onto him tightly.
"Tell me this isn't a dream. That I'm not going to wake up in the morning and realize this entire day was just another fascination of mine. Please tell me that you're really here, Natsu."
Lucy latched onto him and squeezed as the prayers she had written flashed throughout his mind. He had made his best friend suffer. It was nobody else's fault, it was entirely his own.
"Please don't leave me..." Her fragile voice pleaded and in that moment his defenses flickered and then shattered. He had failed at the fountain, but he would not fail here.
"I'm here Luce. I'm not leaving you. Never again." Natsu declared and rotated himself in her arms. He held her closely against his chest.
He ignored the burning embers inside him as he consoled the distraught young woman. He knew healing would take time, it certainly had for him when it came to getting over Igneel's demise, but Lucy had always been a fighter. She would surpass this vulnerability.
"As much as I hate when you do it... it's okay to cry." He mumbled against her ear as she fought the tears that were threatening to break out. "You don't have to forget about what happened, but it's important to move past it. That way you can have a better tomorrow."
"Yeah?"
"Yeah." He tried smiling but the attempt only came out forced. For a while he struggled to find the courage, but after several internal battles he conquered it. "I'm so sorry Lucy."
"For what?"
He remembered Alegria activating and separating them. They had reached out for the other's hand to stay together but the Curse had been too powerful. He had become encased in the dark substance, but Lucy had somehow broken free from the Curse and she was left to fight for her life. It wasn't until she summoned the Celestial Spirit King that he and the rest of the guild were freed. Summoning him though came with a price. One that has tormented her for a year.
"For not being able to reach you in time. If only I could have broken free from that damned..." His apology was cut off short by a gentle finger brushing his lips.
"It's not your fault Natsu. There was nothing you could of done. Mard Geer had you all encased in his Curse."
"I know, but Luce I..." He trailed off and felt her hold onto him tighter.
"Shh, don't speak anymore. Let's just stay like this for a little while, kay?" She whispered quietly and instead of responding with words he tightened the embrace and let the moment happen.
Sure. You know I'd do anything for you.
After a little while of holding each other close they separated and Lucy crawled back in bed. Shockingly, she actually invited him to sleep with her but the dragon slayer turned it down as the gears had begun to turn inside his head. He told her goodnight and left the bedroom, much more confident now she would be alright. In the short timeframe they had spent in each other's arms, Natsu had figured out a way to not only improve her own liveliness, but also give her a new sense of purpose.
She knows where nearly the entire guild is. Now it's time we go and rally everybody and rebuild our home!
He quickly went into the living room and shook Happy. The little blue cat stirred awake as he looked up at his partner curiously.
"Natsu?"
"Come on, Happy! Pack your stuff real fast, then I need you to help me with something."
"Aye!"
The two now wide awake mages hurriedly put away their things and secured them safely. Leaving their backpacks against the wall, Natsu popped open her main window and jumped down onto the cobble steps below. Happy joined him through the air as they raced away from her apartment.
"Where are we going?" Happy asked in wonder at what had his best friend so excited, especially so early in the morning like it was.
"We're gonna go leave a message!" He began.
"A message?"
"We gotta tell everybody that Fairy Tail is making a return!" Natsu announced which caused him to run faster after seeing Mercurius Palace in view.
"Aye sir!" Happy cheered while lifting the dragon slayer up in the air. He lit his hand on fire and went to work scorching a name into the side of the building.
Once more the invading sunlight awakened her from slumber. This time, however Lucy was not haunted by nightmares like she had been so many times before. She had slept great and felt reenergized, excited for the new day. Remembering her insecurity from last night, Lucy blushed at her actions in embarrassment.
All we did was hug. Nothing more, nothing less.
She sighed with a frown wishing they could be more, but knowing it would never happen. Being around him was like being on a rollercoaster and she was just along for the ride. However, her discouraged beliefs ended shortly after remembering his gentleness. Maybe she was slowly getting through to him after all?
I'll never give up on you, because I know you'll never give up on me.
Lucy brushed her teeth and bathed before preparing her outfit for the day. She grabbed her keys off the night stand and, filled with happiness, she strolled into the living room. The blonde wasn't the least surprised to see her two best friends out like a light on the couch. What she was surprised to see though was from her window an army of Rune Knights had surrounded her apartment.
"Huh? Why are they here?!"
Outside, orders were being given as Darton took control, due to King Toma's shock, wanting the destructive mage locked up once and for all.
"This is the place."
"Should we bust in sir?" One Rune Knight asked the commander.
Back in her apartment, the Celestial mage was not thrilled what so ever to hear they were planning to break in.
"Natsu!" Lucy shouted waking him up as he tried slapping her away. "Wake up!"
"Hmm? Good morning." He greeted rubbing crust from his eyes.
"Good morning to you too... now help me! Why is the army here?!"
Natsu and Happy stood up, now fully dressed, as the dragon slayer rubbed his hand behind his head. "So... they found us already, huh?"
"Aye sir!" Happy chuckled remembering what Natsu had him assist in just a few hours ago.
"The army came looking for you?!" Lucy asked skeptically and now a little terrified. "I thought the King pardoned you!"
I don't want to get locked up! I didn't even do anything!
His teasing laughter shoved her out of her thoughts as he grabbed her hand and pulled them towards the window. "He did but... well you'll see in a second. Let's go, Lucy!
"H-Hey! Wait, what kind of trouble are you knuckleheads in now!" He didn't give her a reasoning and picked her up bridal style. "N-Natsu?" She asked stunned as her cheeks flushed. She faintly recalled him doing this same twice in their return from Tartaros' base.
"Just trust me alright?" He smiled and she just couldn't bring herself to question it. Lucy nodded and instantly he broke through her window, sending shattered shards in every direction, as they leaped out of the apartment. "This is nothing we can't outrun!" Natsu laughed and the soldiers watched them fly over their heads.
"He's the one responsible for all of this!"
"Get him!" The commander ordered as they gave chase to the two fleeing mages. Happy flew out right behind them mocking the Rune Knights as he carried their bags. The soldiers were fast, but Natsu Dragneel was faster. In no time he pulled away from them, placing the blonde down so she could run herself, as they continued sprinting out of Crocus.
"I didn't do anything wrong, I swear!" Lucy pleaded as she could still hear the soldier's curses and threats for imprisonment. "What did you do this this time Natsu?!"
His mischievous eyes and chuckle didn't make her feel any better at their predicament as they entered the very sight of their trouble. Above the top of a clocktower, a blazing emblem of their guild mark burned bright and on the side of the Mercurius Palace letters of fire flashed intensely. The flames formed two key words.
"I just left a message about Fairy Tail... telling everyone we're coming back!" He explained.
"Fairy Tail? I thought they disbanded!"
"Mercurius Palace is burning! Someone get water... quick!"
Off to the side, King Toma and the rest of Fiore's well-known leaders watched on totally baffled. Hisui's giggles rang out forcing Darton to glare heatedly at the escaping fugitives.
"It's okay..." Toma stated while shaking.
Arcadios tried summoning the kingdom's top executioners, the Hungry Wolf Knights, but once they realized who the target was they declined. They all remembered the final blow the fire dragon slayer dealt to them after the small band of wizards were victorious in defeating them in the Abyss Palace.
The Crown Princess hid her smirk behind her glove and whispered her appreciation to the fire dragon slayer. She knew if anyone was able to restore Lucy, it was all along going to be Natsu.
Elsewhere, at his desk and with a pen in hand, Jason examined his newest cover issue. Instead of featuring the Grand Magic Games' actual champions, Scarmiglione, by choice he decided to place Natsu and Happy on the front cover.
"So COOL! This year, the victor is no guild... it's fire boy!" He read off word for word waving his arms out in front of him as he yelled excitedly. "That has got to be the coolest freaking title yet!"
Hearing commotion, he got out of his seat and looked out the window. Seeing fire he opened the window to get a better view and heard shouting voices. One he could make out happened to be Lucy's. Plus, the message on the side of the palace was all too clear.
"Fairy Tail's back?! COOL! This scoop is going to be massive! Best of luck to ya, Lucy!" Jason shouted out the window as he immediately went back to his desk and began preparing a new article.
"Natsu gained way more control over his magic this year and that type of fire goes out quickly, so we're going to be okay!" Happy informed causing the blonde to panic a little less, but only by a slim margin.
"That's not the only problem here Happy. We're still being chased by the royal army ya know!" She screeched then looked at Natsu. "How can you just announce Fairy Tail's comeback?"
"Easy! Cause we all still believe in it!" Natsu spoke turning his head to look at her. "You've got everybody's locations remember? We're gonna go get everyone and reform the guild!"
Lucy's eyes widened at his statement as she nearly faltered in their sprint. Happy's laughter echoed into her mind and she saw that all too familiar flashy grin she knew and loved.
"Come on! You in?" Natsu called as he held his hand out to her.
Lucy thought about everything they had gone through the last year. The entire Tartaros war, Aquarius sacrifice, Igneel's death, Fairy Tail's disbandment, Natsu's disappearance... and now his return. Not only that, but the possible return of their home. Her decision was made immediately as she grasped his hand.
"Yeah!"
A/N: Wow this was a long one! I really didn't mean for it to be that massive, but I just kept writing and writing and was really pleased with what I had come up with. Before anyone asks, this chapter was mainly written to conclude the post-Tartaros events and move on into the next arc! So for some explanations:
Natsu and Lucy are both emotional characters in their own right, but unlike Natsu who I had eventually get past Igneel's death and focus on getting redemption for the fire dragon king, Lucy is a different story. I think she would struggle more, primarily because of Natsu's disappearance for an entire year, and like I mentioned earlier: Fairy Tail was her main motivation. Without the guild and Aquarius, I feel like it's pretty realistic within her character traits to lose sight of who she was for a little while and need to be "restored."
Hisui's intervention was actually one of the first parts I wrote out for this chapter. I think it's entirely plausible that since the two Celestial wizards are friends, Hisui would of been in contact with Lucy, specifically when moving to Crocus. To clear up any confusion while I can, the hug between her and Natsu doesn't mean anything. I just felt like it was a nice addition to help Natsu's state in that moment. Again it would make sense she would know about Igneel's fall, because of her discussions with Lucy.
We all know the unfortunate truth - Natsu doesn't know what feelings or love is for the most part. I'm making sure I keep true to that style, but also changing it a little every now and then. I thought I did a pretty solid job with Natsu cheering up Lucy, without it being too OOC. Hopefully you all feel the same. Don't worry though I will get the ball rolling between them soon!
Lastly, I spoke about this in the last chapter, but college will be starting back up for me very soon. I'm happy I was able to get this one out for you all, and will try my best to get the next one prepped and dropped before the end of the week if I'm lucky. If not, it might be a little bit until the next one is out... but I am sure you all will be fine waiting :)
Thanks everybody for reading another chapter of Dragon Rage! See you in the next one where our favorite trio journeys out to begin the rebuilding of Fairy Tail!
Up Next: Chapter 7 - Change
