That evening after dinner
That evening after dinner, Natsu entered Artoria's room once again, with her leading him by the arm. He quite enjoyed being around her, finding it amusing how she could transition from a mature woman to acting more like a teenage girl. Likewise, Artoria appreciated how Natsu could shift from being serious to acting childish.
"So… is there an extra bed now, or are we still sharing?" Natsu inquired.
Artoria turned to him, a hint of concern in her voice. "Why? Was there a problem last night?" she asked, worried she might have made him uncomfortable.
"No, it's just... I don't want to be rude," Natsu replied, trying to express his feelings delicately.
Both of them found comfort in each other's presence more than they realized.
"Well, I don't see why we should get an extra bed. My bed is big enough for both of us," Artoria reassured him, her tone soft and understanding.
Natsu considered her words for a moment before voicing another concern. "Do Eliza and Igneel not have a problem with it?"
Artoria chuckled softly, shaking her head. "No, not at all. Mom and Igneel trust us to behave like responsible adults," she reassured him. "Besides, they are trying to get us together."
Artoria's words caught Natsu off guard, and he blinked in surprise. "Wait, seriously? Igneel wasn't joking?" he asked, a hint of disbelief coloring his voice.
Artoria nodded, her expression laced with amusement. "Yes, seriously," she confirmed, a mischievous twinkle in her golden eyes. "I overheard them talking earlier. Apparently, they think we make a good match and are hoping that spending time together will bring us closer."
Natsu's cheeks flushed slightly at the realization, his mind reeling with the implications of Eliza and Igneel's intentions. "Wow, I had no idea," he admitted, feeling a mixture of embarrassment and intrigue. "I mean, I knew they wanted us to get along, but I didn't realize they were playing matchmaker."
Artoria chuckled softly, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "Well, now you know," she teased, nudging him gently with her elbow. "But don't worry, let's see where this takes us," she said with a wink.
Natsu couldn't help but feel a rush of emotions at Artoria's words, his cheeks flushing even more as he processed the idea of being set up by Eliza and Igneel. "I guess they're really serious about this," he mused, a mix of uncertainty and curiosity coloring his tone.
Artoria chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Seems like it," she agreed, her playful demeanor putting him at ease. "But hey, who knows? Maybe they're onto something."
Natsu couldn't help but smile at her optimism, feeling a sense of warmth spread through him at the thought of what the future might hold. "Yeah, maybe," he replied, his voice filled with a newfound sense of excitement.
As they settled into Artoria's room for the night, the soft glow of candlelight casting a warm and cozy ambiance, Natsu couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation that lingered in the air.
Next Day
As the sun's rays filtered through the curtains, Natsu slowly woke up, finding himself in what he could only describe as the most comfortable pillows he had ever laid his head on. Attempting to sit up, he realized he couldn't move as something was holding his face against the soft surface.
It didn't take long for him to realize that the 'pillows' were actually Artoria's breasts. Her soft breath tickled his hair, and he felt her arms wrapped tightly yet gently around his neck and shoulders.
Natsu's cheeks burned crimson as he realized his predicament, feeling both embarrassed and oddly flustered by the intimacy of the moment. He shifted awkwardly, trying to extricate himself without waking Artoria, but her arms remained firmly wrapped around him, holding him in place.
Artoria stirred beside him, her eyes fluttering open as she slowly became aware of their close proximity. Her blush deepened as she registered their position, and she quickly released him, pulling back slightly with a sheepish expression.
"Sorry," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "I... didn't mean to... uh, do that."
Natsu's embarrassment mirrored hers as he struggled to find the right words to respond. "No, it's okay," he reassured her, his cheeks still tinged with pink. "I mean, I guess we both... uh, fell asleep like that."
Artoria nodded, her gaze flickering away momentarily before returning to meet his. "Yeah, I guess so," she agreed softly, a shy smile playing at the corners of her lips.
Their shared embarrassment hung in the air between them, but beneath it lay a subtle undercurrent of warmth and affection. As they untangled themselves from each other and sat up, the awkwardness began to dissipate, replaced by a sense of understanding and happiness?
As Natsu and Artoria went about their morning routines, a comfortable silence settled between them, easing the residual awkwardness from their unexpected closeness earlier. They exchanged fleeting glances and small smiles, their bond strengthened by the shared intimacy of the moment.
After getting dressed and preparing for the day, they made their way to the dining hall where Eliza and Igneel were already waiting for them, the aroma of freshly cooked breakfast filling the air.
Eliza greeted them with a warm smile as they entered, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Good morning, you two," she said cheerfully, gesturing for them to take a seat at the table. "Did you sleep well?"
Natsu and Artoria exchanged a quick glance before nodding in unison. "Yes, thank you," they replied in unison, a hint of bashfulness coloring their voices.
Igneel chuckled softly from his seat at the head of the table, his eyes crinkling with amusement. "I see you two are getting along nicely," he remarked, his tone teasing but affectionate.
Natsu and Artoria shared a sheepish smile, their cheeks flushing slightly at the gentle ribbing from Igneel. "Yeah, we are," Natsu admitted, his embarrassment tempered by a sense of camaraderie.
Artoria nodded in agreement, her smile widening as she glanced at Natsu. "Definitely," she agreed softly, her gaze lingering on him for a moment longer than necessary.
As they continued to eat, suddenly Artoria sneezed, and a shimmering aura of magic enveloped her. Igneel and Eliza had no reaction, being accustomed to such occurrences, but Natsu was taken aback by the sudden display of magic.
As the magic dissipated, Natsu's eyes widened in surprise as he took in Artoria's transformed appearance. She now stood shorter than him, at about 154 centimeters, and she looked noticeably younger. Her hair had become shorter, falling just past her shoulders in loose waves, and her attire had undergone a significant change.
Gone was her white armor dress, replaced by a blue battle dress adorned with light armor on her chest, greaves, and gauntlets that extended under her elbows. Underneath the gauntlets, she wore separated sleeves that reached just under her shoulders, leaving them uncovered along with her neck and part of her back. The dress was cinched at her waist by a chest piece that enveloped her smaller breasts, complementing her figure with a corset implemented into the dress just below the chest piece. Plates for added protection adorned the sides of the dress.
Her once neatly pulled-back long hair now cascaded in loose waves on her mid back her face, with bangs framing her features. Her eyes had changed to a light green hue, adding a youthful sparkle to her gaze, and she wore a simple choker around her neck. A golden sword was sheathed and tied at her side, adding a touch of elegance to her new appearance.
Natsu blinked in astonishment, trying to process the sudden transformation of his friend's appearance. "Artoria... is that you?" he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.
Artoria, now looking noticeably different, seemed unfazed by the transformation as she reached up to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear. She glanced at Natsu, her expression a mix of amusement and curiosity.
"Surprised?" she asked, her voice light and playful.
Natsu nodded slowly, his gaze still fixed on her. "Yeah, definitely," he admitted, his voice tinged with wonder. "So… what is this supposed to mean?"
"Well," Artoria began, "thanks to my two opposing magics, I have multiple forms that complement a certain style. The appearance I had until now is my balanced form. In other forms, I lose access to one element, but I can use the other to a much higher degree. I have two forms for each element. This one complements my light magic... What do you think?" she asked uncertainly.
Natsu's cheeks tinged with a blush as he took in her new appearance. "Beautiful and cool," he whispered, his voice barely above a murmur.
Artoria's cheeks flushed slightly at Natsu's compliment, a bashful smile tugging at the corners of her lips. She appreciated his genuine reaction, feeling a surge of warmth in her chest at his words.
"Thank you," she murmured softly, her eyes sparkling with gratitude. "I'm glad you think so."
As they shared a brief moment of connection, Natsu couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for Artoria's versatility and strength. He found himself drawn to her in a way he hadn't expected, his heart fluttering with a mixture of excitement and curiosity.
Artoria returned his gaze, her eyes softening with affection. "I'm still learning to control these forms," she admitted, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "But having you here with me... it makes it easier somehow."
Natsu offered her a warm smile. "We'll figure it out together," he reassured her, his voice filled with sincerity. "I'll help however I can."
A warmth spread through Artoria's chest at his words, her heart swelling with gratitude.
"How cute… now kiss," said Eliza, amused.
Both Natsu and Artoria turned towards Eliza, their faces flushed with embarrassment. Artoria quickly composed herself, though, and laughed softly. "Mom, you're impossible," she said, shaking her head with a grin.
Eliza chuckled, winking at them. "Just saying what we're all thinking," she teased, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
Natsu scratched the back of his head, looking away to hide his blush. "Let's, uh, focus on the training for now," he suggested, trying to change the subject.
Artoria nodded, still smiling. "Agreed," she said, glancing back at Natsu with a knowing look. "We'll have plenty of time to talk later."
Later in the day,
Natsu was sitting on a balcony, gazing into the distance, lost in thought about what Fairy Tail was doing. He tried not to think about them, but thinking of Fairy Tail always made him think of her. Natsu let out a sigh, "It was not meant to be then."
"What wasn't meant to be?" asked Artoria as she entered the balcony.
Natsu turned around, surprised. "Artoria? It's nothing, just… thinking."
Artoria curiously pressed, "About what? You seem a bit sad. Don't you think talking might cheer you up?"
"Are you really interested?" asked Natsu, his voice laced with skepticism.
"Yes," responded Artoria, looking into his eyes and offering him a warm smile.
Natsu chuckled, a bitter edge to his laughter. "Well… back in the human world, I was part of a guild, Fairy Tail. I told you about it. I've been there since I got to this era." Natsu continued, "There's this girl..."
Artoria's eyes widened. "You—you have someone?" she asked shyly, a hint of hurt in her voice.
"No, it's… complicated," responded Natsu, shaking his head.
Artoria gulped, thinking to herself, "Does he already have someone?"
"How so?" she asked softly, trying to mask her concern.
"Well, I liked her a lot. There was something… draconic about her. I don't know, we used to be very close when we were younger, and when we got older… we got closer," said Natsu, his voice growing softer.
Artoria didn't like where this was going. Biting her tongue not to say something, she continued to listen, though slightly avoiding eye contact.
"But it never lasted... We got close, very close. It was her birthday, we had a small celebration at her apartment, and as I was leaving… she kissed me," Natsu reminisced, a pained look crossing his face.
Artoria looked away, feeling a pang of jealousy.
"After that, she ignored me for weeks. She said nothing, just ignored me, like we weren't even acquaintances," continued Natsu, his voice growing more agitated. "That happened a few times. This year, I found out why... As a child, she was captured and enslaved by some cult of Zeref. She managed to escape during a rebellion. A… friend of hers—" Natsu spat out the word 'friend' in disgust, "—changed sides. He threw her out and blackmailed her to keep quiet about the whole thing. He turned her other friends against her."
"He eventually tried to capture her and sacrifice her in that project, called the Tower of Heaven, in an attempt to resurrect Zeref the Black Wizard. I defeated him, and by all means, he should have died. He survived by sheer dumb luck," Natsu continued, his fists clenching. "After that, we began to get closer again. I actually thought it was going to evolve into something. About three months ago, we went on a job to exterminate one of the big Dark Guilds. That bastard appeared. Apparently, they rescued him because he knew where the weapon they were looking for was. He claimed he lost his memories and 'somehow' knew he did something terrible and just had to make it up to her. That's all it took. I'm sorry, THAT fucker blackmailed her for years! He murdered one of her friends in front of us, he tried to kill her, he nearly killed ME!" Natsu's voice rose, filled with anger and frustration.
Artoria's eyes widened. "Nearly killed you?" she whispered, her voice trembling.
"He stabbed me with one of her own swords. I survived because I managed to awaken Dragon Force for a bit, and regenerate. SHE KNEW THAT, and when the authorities came to arrest the dark guild and him, she asked ME to save HIM. She expected me to just do as she said, as if I'm some sort of FUCKING DOG TO BE ORDERED AROUND!" Natsu began to pace around, his anger palpable as small bursts of fire escaped his mouth as he talked.
"Then she gave ME the cold shoulder after I refused to help," Natsu chuckled darkly. "Oh, even he expected me to help him, and when I didn't, oh, how much I relished that look."
"Of course, most of the guild sided with her. They didn't know the full story, and no one wants to go against her," said Natsu, his voice breaking. "Eventually, a buddy of mine suggested I take a vacation, and I did. Then I ended up here."
Artoria's eyes blazed with anger at hearing Natsu's story. "That's unforgivable," she said, her voice low and fierce. "How could they do that to you?"
Natsu, still pacing, ran a hand through his hair in frustration. "I don't know, Artoria. I just don't understand how she could forgive him, after everything he did to her, to me, to us. It's like everything we had meant nothing."
Artoria stepped closer, placing a comforting hand on his arm. "You didn't deserve that, Natsu. You deserve someone who sees your worth, who stands by you no matter what. She was a fool to let you go."
Natsu looked at her, feeling a mixture of gratitude and lingering frustration. "Thanks, Artoria. It means a lot," he said, his voice filled with emotion.
Artoria, her eyes still blazing with anger for what Natsu had endured, gently cupped his face in her hands. "You're not alone anymore. We'll face whatever comes together," she promised, her voice steady and reassuring. Her touch was tender, her eyes filled with fierce protectiveness.
Natsu nodded, feeling a newfound sense of hope and connection. "Yeah, together," he agreed, feeling a warmth in his heart that he hadn't felt in a long time.
Without thinking, Artoria leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to Natsu's cheek. "You're important to me," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
Natsu's eyes widened, his heart racing. "Artoria..." he began, his voice filled with emotion.
Artoria smiled, her eyes shining with sincerity. "We'll figure everything out, Natsu. You and me."
Natsu felt a surge of gratitude and something deeper, something he couldn't quite name. "Thank you, Artoria," he said, his voice thick with emotion.
As they stood there, the weight of Natsu's past seemed to lift slightly, replaced by the promise of a future with someone who truly cared.
With Igneel and Eliza
Unbeknownst to Natsu and Artoria, Igneel and Eliza were listening in on their conversation from a nearby room.
Igneel clenched his fists, his anger evident as he listened to Natsu's recounting of his past. "Every time I hear something new about humans, they disappoint me," he growled. "Perhaps leaving Natsu with them for so long was a mistake."
Eliza sighed, her expression a mixture of sadness and frustration. "That boy is smarter than he lets on and psychologically stronger too. It's a wonder he didn't completely break down. To be betrayed by one's first love like this... It's even more baffling what that girl was thinking. She, of all people, should know how that feels."
Igneel let out a deep breath, trying to calm his anger. "Well, Artoria is going to take care of him," he said with a touch of reassurance in his voice.
Eliza nodded, her eyes filled with pride for their daughter. "She will. Artoria understands him in a way that few others can."
Igneel's expression softened slightly as he watched the interaction between Natsu and Artoria. "They're exactly what they both need. Artoria needs someone who will see her for more than her looks and status. And Natsu needs someone willing to stand with him."
Eliza's gaze softened as she watched the young pair. "Artoria has always wanted someone who truly understands her, who sees beyond her exterior. And Natsu, after everything he's been through, needs someone steadfast and loyal."
Igneel nodded, a hint of a smile forming. "They complement each other perfectly."
Eliza placed a hand on Igneel's arm, her touch gentle but firm. "We'll support them in any way we can."
Igneel's smile widened slightly as he watched Natsu and Artoria continue their conversation. "They do. And with each other, they'll find it."
Back with Natsu and Artoria
The conversation gradually shifted from Natsu's complicated romance to a happier topic. Sensing a change in the mood, Natsu decided to lighten things up.
Natsu smiled, asking, "I've told you about my sorry excuse of a romantic life, what about you?"
Artoria chuckled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Me? Well, there's not much to tell, really."
Natsu raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "Oh, come on, there must be something."
Artoria thought for a moment, her expression thoughtful. "Well, growing up with my powers and responsibilities, I didn't really have time for romance. Most people were either too intimidated or too focused on my status and looks to see the real me."
Natsu nodded, understanding her predicament. "I get that. It's hard to find someone who sees you for who you really are."
Artoria smiled warmly, though there was a hint of frustration in her eyes. "Exactly. Every time there is some sort of gala or gathering of royalty, boys keep trying to flirt with me. If I so much as look at them, they suddenly think they've hit the jackpot and then their parents approach Father and Mother with nonsense like, 'Oh, they get along just fine, why don't we arrange a marriage?' They insist so much that Igneel often has to threaten to rip some prince's head off if he doesn't leave."
Natsu's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Wow, that sounds... intense."
Artoria sighed, her irritation clear. "And absolutely all of my self-proclaimed suitors are nothing more than arrogant, entitled pricks. All they see is a way to be crowned King of all Dragons and a toy."
Natsu frowned, anger simmering beneath his surface. "That's infuriating."
Artoria nodded, her expression darkening. "Ever since Ignia left, they've become even more aggressive. They somehow think that Father and Mother are desperate to marry me off."
"Ignia?" Natsu asked, curiosity piqued.
"Oh, we haven't told you about him," Artoria explained. "My brother. He's a tremendously powerful dragon, a transcended one just like Igneel. He never cared about royal appearances. If someone bothered him or me, he would trash them no matter who they were, be it a prince or king. And they could do nothing. Igneel allows them to get away with a lot of disrespect towards us, but Ignia allowed nothing. One time, some douchebag was very aggressive when I told him off and he started to insult me. Ignia, of course, beat him up. When the douchebag's dad intervened, Ignia forced him to bow and beg for forgiveness."
Natsu couldn't help but chuckle. "I think Ignia and I could get along just fine. And I think I'm going to have a talk with Igneel. I understand he's most likely trying to keep the peace, but as he used to say, 'you gotta remind the peasants why YOU are king.'"
Artoria's eyes sparkled with admiration. "You really mean that?"
Natsu nodded firmly. "Absolutely. No one should treat you like that. And if Ignia isn't around to put them in their place, then I'll step up."
Artoria's heart swelled with gratitude and affection. She reached out and took Natsu's hand, squeezing it gently. "Thank you, Natsu. It means a lot to me."
Natsu squeezed her hand back, a determined look in his eyes. "We'll deal with this together. No more letting those arrogant mutts push you around."
Artoria smiled at him, her heath filled with a warm sensation as she gave him a kiss on the cheek again.
,,Thank you Natsu.'' she whispered softly.
With a newfound sense of determination and unity, Natsu and Artoria spent the rest of the day planning their next steps. They discussed strategies for dealing with Artoria's unwanted suitors and how Natsu could approach Igneel about the matter without causing unnecessary conflict.
As the evening approached, they found themselves back on the balcony, watching the sun dip below the horizon. The air was cool, but in each other's company, they felt warm and reassured.
Natsu glanced at Artoria, a smile playing at the corners of his lips. "You know, despite all the craziness, I'm glad I ended up here," he admitted, his voice tinged with sincerity.
Artoria returned his smile, her heart fluttering at his words. "Me too," she confessed, her gaze softening as she looked at him. "I never expected to meet someone like you, Natsu. Someone who understands me, who supports me, who... makes me feel alive."
Natsu's cheeks tinged with a blush, his heart skipping a beat at her words. "You make me feel the same way, Artoria," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I've never met anyone like you before. You're strong, kind, and... absolutely beautiful."
Artoria's cheeks flushed at his compliment, a shy smile gracing her lips. "Thank you, Natsu," she murmured, her eyes shining with affection. "That means a lot to me."
As they gazed at each other, a warm and tender silence enveloped them. In that moment, they both knew that they had found something special in each other. Something worth fighting for, worth protecting, and worth cherishing.
With a shared understanding and a deepening bond, Natsu and Artoria leaned in closer, their hearts beating in sync. And as their lips met in a gentle kiss, they knew that they were embarking on a new chapter of their lives together.
As they separated their eyes locked to each other, they began to get closer for a second kiss but were interrupted.
,,Awwwwww.'' said Eliza with Igneel behind her wiping a mock tear.
Natsu and Artoria quickly pulled away from each other, their cheeks flushing with embarrassment as they turned to face Eliza and Igneel, who were standing in the doorway with amused smiles on their faces.
Eliza giggled, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Sorry to interrupt, lovebirds, but we couldn't resist witnessing this moment," she teased, her tone filled with playful affection.
Igneel chuckled, placing a reassuring hand on Natsu's shoulder. "Don't mind us, kids. Just wanted to let you know that dinner is ready," he said, his voice warm and gentle.
Natsu and Artoria exchanged sheepish glances before nodding in understanding. "Thanks, Igneel. We'll be there in a moment," Natsu replied, trying to regain his composure.
As Eliza and Igneel left the balcony, Natsu and Artoria shared a knowing smile. Despite the interruption, they both felt a sense of happiness and contentment knowing that they had each other.
With a newfound sense of excitement for the future, Natsu and Artoria linked arms and headed back inside.
At dinner
At dinner, Natsu and Artoria found themselves seated next to each other, their cheeks still tinged with a hint of embarrassment from being caught in a tender moment by Igneel and Eliza. Despite their lingering shyness, they exchanged subtle glances and shy smiles throughout the meal, their newfound connection palpable.
Igneel and Eliza, noticing their children's bashfulness, shared knowing looks but refrained from teasing them further. Instead, they engaged in light-hearted conversation, guiding the discussion away from any potentially awkward topics.
As the evening wore on, Natsu and Artoria gradually relaxed in each other's presence, their initial apprehension giving way to a growing sense of comfort and familiarity. They found themselves laughing at each other's jokes, sharing stories from their pasts, and exchanging meaningful glances that spoke volumes without a single word.
,,Igneel.'' said Natsu sound more serious,
,,Yes?'' asked Igneel.
,,You must have heard what we were talking before so you know exactly what i want to talk about.'' said Natsu referring to Igneel's inaction.
Natsu's tone grew more serious as he addressed Igneel, a hint of frustration underlying his words. Igneel nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.
"Yes, Natsu, I understand," Igneel replied evenly, meeting Natsu's gaze with a steady look. "I've heard what you've shared, and I know you're concerned about my approach to certain matters."
Natsu nodded, his expression earnest. "It's not just about me, Igneel. It's about Artoria too. She shouldn't have to deal with unwanted advances or pressure from suitors who don't respect her."
Igneel's expression softened, acknowledging Natsu's point. "You're right, Natsu. And I apologize if my actions—or lack thereof—have caused you or Artoria any distress. I've been trying to maintain a delicate balance between protecting our family and preserving peace among dragons, but perhaps I've been too passive in certain situations."
Natsu listened intently as Igneel spoke, his frustration beginning to ease as he sensed Igneel's genuine understanding. He appreciated Igneel's willingness to acknowledge his concerns and take responsibility for his actions.
"I understand, Igneel," Natsu said, his voice softer now, tinged with understanding. "It's not easy to navigate these situations, especially when there are so many factors at play. But Artoria's safety and well-being are paramount. I'm telling you now, I will react to disrespect the exact way YOU taught me how to: by bashing heads in. Like you yourself said, 'Sometimes you have to remind the peasants why you are King.' Otherwise, what makes Dragon Royalty better than the common idiots calling themselves royal in the human world?"
Igneel nodded solemnly, acknowledging the gravity of Natsu's words. "You're right, Natsu. Our lineage carries with it a responsibility to uphold honor and dignity, even in the face of adversity. And if that means taking a more assertive stance to protect our family and our legacy, then so be it."
Natsu's expression softened, a sense of determination flickering in his eyes. "Igneel, I know you've always had our best interests at heart. But sometimes, being passive isn't enough. I'll handle whatever mutts are being disrespectful next time. But I expect your help to ensure it never happens again, right King of Dragons?"
Igneel's gaze met Natsu's with a mix of pride and solemnity. "You have my word, Natsu," he replied firmly. "As the King of Dragons, I will do everything in my power to ensure that our family is respected and protected. No one will dare to disrespect us again."
Natsu nodded, a sense of reassurance washing over him. "Now that is the King I remember." said Natsu with a smirk.
Igneel chuckled softly at Natsu's remark, a hint of amusement dancing in his eyes. "I may have grown a bit complacent over the years, but rest assured, I haven't forgotten my duties," he said, his tone laced with determination. "And I have you to thank for reminding me of that."
Natsu grinned, a sense of camaraderie filling the air between them. "Anytime, Igneel. After all, what is family for?"
With a shared understanding and a renewed sense of purpose, Natsu and Igneel exchanged a nod, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them as a united front.
Eliza smiled warmly watching the scene as Artoria's eyes were locked on Natsu, touched by his protectiveness, now the only thing that remind was to solidify their relationship.
At Night
In the quiet intimacy of the night, Natsu and Artoria stood facing each other, a gentle tension hanging in the air between them. The memory of their shared kiss lingered, casting a subtle warmth over their interactions.
Artoria shifted slightly, her gaze meeting Natsu's as she spoke softly, breaking the silence. "I... I hope I didn't overstep earlier," she said, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "I just felt... something between us, and I didn't want to ignore it."
Natsu's heart skipped a beat at her words, his own feelings echoing hers. "No, not at all," he replied, his voice equally soft. "I felt it too. And... I liked it."
A shy smile played on Artoria's lips as she met his gaze, a rush of relief flooding through her. "I'm glad," she murmured, her eyes sparkling with a mixture of emotions. "I've never felt this way before... about anyone."
Natsu reached out, his hand finding hers in the darkness, their fingers intertwining as they stood together in silent understanding. "You are … special," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "I have felt you were special from the moment I saw you."
"I guess now that I am more of a dragon, I can see it more clearly," Natsu continued, his tone tinged with vulnerability. "But I... I still fear it will end the same way." His voice trailed off, his insecurities laid bare in the quiet of the night.
Artoria's smile softened into a tender expression as she listened to Natsu's vulnerable admission. She squeezed his hand gently, offering him reassurance in the darkness. "I understand, Natsu," she whispered, her voice filled with empathy. "It's natural to feel afraid, especially after what you've been through. But I promise you, I'm not her. And this... what we have... I will do everything possible to make it work."
Natsu looked into her eyes, searching for any sign of doubt but finding only sincerity. "But what if—" he began, but Artoria gently placed a finger on his lips, silencing his fears.
"No 'what ifs,'" she said firmly, yet gently. "We can't predict the future, but we can choose to face it together. I see you, Natsu. The real you. And I want to be with you, not because of what you can do or what you are, but because of who you are."
Natsu's heart swelled with a mixture of hope and relief. He could feel the sincerity in her words, the genuine care and affection she held for him. "Thank you, Artoria," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "I... I want to believe in us too."
Artoria smiled warmly, her eyes sparkling with determination. "Then let's take it one step at a time," she said, her voice a soothing balm to his fears. "We'll face whatever comes together, and we'll make this work. Because you are special to me, Natsu. More than you'll ever know."
Natsu's eyes searched hers, seeking the truth in her words. And as he saw the sincerity shining in Artoria's gaze, he felt a glimmer of hope stir within him. "Okay," he whispered, his voice barely above a breath. "I'll try."
With a tender smile, Artoria leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to Natsu's forehead. "That's all I ask," she murmured, her voice filled with warmth and affection. "We'll take it one step at a time, together."
And as they stood there, their fingers intertwined and their hearts entwined, Natsu felt a sense of peace wash over him. For the first time in a long time, he allowed himself to believe that maybe, just maybe, love could be worth the risk.