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Chapter Text

In a faraway kingdom called the Fiore Kingdom, all magical creatures and wizards lived in peace. One day a child of a dragon named Acnologia met a human girl named Gia. The two became the best of friends and eventually, they fell in love with each other. When Gia became the age to marry, her father arranged for her to marry a king from a different kingdom, but Gia refused and said that she had fallen in love with Acnologia. When her father heard that, he became outraged and stated "No daughter of mine will marry such a vulgar creature" and she said, "I don't care, I love him with all my heart". Her father locked her in her room until she came to her senses, but that night she snuck out of her bedroom and ran to Acnologia's forest. When she arrived in his forest, she told him about her father and this alleged engagement and Acnologia vowed to keep his princess safe. Unknown to them, Gia's fiance was there in the palace waiting for his bride and when he heard that she ran off to the forest he went there to get her.

The next morning when Acnologia went to get food for him and Gia, her fiance came to bring her back. She refused and said that she was happy here with Acnologia and just after she said that Acnologia came back and the king said that she belongs with him and normal people and not a monster. Her fiance pulled out his sword and lunged at him seeing that he didn't have enough time to avoid the sword. When he looked up the sword had not made contact with him but with Gia. Gia fell to the forest floor holding her stomach coughing blood and she turned to Acnologia. He had tears in his eyes saying things were going to be alright. She turned her head in the other direction and saw that her fiance had runoff. Then she turned back to Acnologia and put her hand on his face and said "I don't think I'm going to make it darling" and he said "Yes, you will… I know I'll take you to a dragon healer then you'll be able to" he stopped when he felt a hand on his head and saw Gia with tears on her face but a smile on her face and said "No… that won’t be necessary darling… I know you won't be able to make it… in time to get a healer… now before I die… I just… want to say… I'm glad I met you, Acnologia... you took me to so many places… I had never been before… and I.....love.......you" she said as she took her last breath. Acnologia looked in horror as his love stopped breathing altogether. With an emotionless face, he dug a grave and put Gia in the grave and took a stone that said Here lies, Gia, a wonderful friend, and lover. He looked at the grave one more time before leaving. Anger, sadness, and revenge fill him up and transform him into a black dragon. He attacked the kingdom which caused the Great Dragon-Wizard war. The war lasted a long time and it was stopped by celestial dragon priestess Anna Heartfilia. Anna was able to sense the anger and sadness in his heart and put Acnologia to rest in a cave far away from Fiore. After the war, a law was passed to prevent this from happening again that stated"No prince or princess of a dragon or royal family shall not fall in love or marry" The dragons and humans separated Fiore causing new kingdoms to form. Over the years no one has broken the law until now.

Chapter Text

In the kingdom of Fiore, there are two separate kingdoms, the Celestial Kingdom and the Dragon Kingdom. To start this story off we will start in the Celestial Kingdom ruled by King Jude Heartfilia and Celestial Queen Layla Heartfilia and their baby daughter Celestial Princess Lucy Heartfilia.

Once upon a time before the separate kingdoms, there lived a kingdom named the Magnolia kingdom. In the castle ruled by King Jude, Jude took the throne at the age of 18. Years before he took the throne, he met a woman named Layla and he soon realized that she was the descendant of Anna Heartfilia, the woman who saved the kingdom from the dragons. Layla, at the age of 16, learned of her ancestor that saved the kingdom from the dragons by transforming into the Celestial Dragon Priestess, which was passed down throughout the Heartfilia women. Anna had soothed the dragon and sent him to a cave far away from the kingdom. Jude and Layla became good friends and years later, they were married and Magnolia was given the name of the Celestial Kingdom after Anna. 2 years after they were married, Layla gave birth to a beautiful baby girl and they named her Celestial Princess Lucy Heartfilia. Like all Heartfilia women, Lucy was born with golden blonde hair and chocolate brown eyes. Lucy is loved by everyone around, but she often wonders what is out beyond her kingdom and when she would ask her parents about the dragons and the land they would reply that it is too dangerous to leave the kingdom, but Lucy had plans to find out what's beyond her home.

Little did she know that going beyond her home would be an adventure she would never forget.

Chapter Text

On the other side of Fiore, lies the Dragon Kingdom ruled by five dragons Igneel, Grandine, Metalicana, Weisslogia, and Skiadram. Each dragon has a child. Natsu, the fire dragon prince, Wendy, the sky dragon princess, Gajeel, the iron dragon prince, and Sting and Rogue, the twin light and shadow princes.

Once upon a time before the separate kingdoms, there lived a kingdom named the Dragon Cove. After the war had ended, the five dragons created their own kingdoms, causing the Dragon Cove to be separated into the five primary magic: Fire, Sky, Iron, Shadow, and Light. Each dragon could transform into a humanoid dragon and produce an heir to its throne. Igneel, the Fire Dragon King, had a son named Natsu, Grandine, the Sky Dragon Queen, had a daughter named Wendy, Metalicana, the Iron Dragon King, had a son named Gajeel, and Weisslogia and Skidram, twin Dragon Kings of Shadow and Light, had two sons named Sting and Rogue. All the dragons' kids were trained in combat and magic in case another war broke out. The dragons told their children never to go out towards the humans, and they would ask why and their reply was that humans could not be trusted. Natsu, however, grew curious about the world beyond his home, but Natsu had plans to find out what's beyond his kingdom.

Little did he know that going beyond his home would be an adventure he would never forget.

Chapter Text

The Celestial Kingdom

In the country of Magnolia, there lies the beautiful celestial kingdom ruled by Queen Layla and King Jude. Inside the palace, was a young blonde-haired girl running inside. "Mama can we play today" "Maybe later Lucy, your father and I have a meeting today with the council" "Aw no fair" "I know it's not fair, but you have Levy, Yukino, Kagura, Erza, Mirajane, and Juvia to play with" "I know," said a sadden Lucy. Layla, seeing her daughter sad, said, "I'll tell you what, if you’ll be a good girl…I'll give you a surprise" "Really, what kind of surprise" "If I tell you then it won't be a surprise" "Aw, okay Mama I'm going to the gardens to play" " Alright Lucy, oh and your cousin Laxus and his friends Jellal and Gray are coming here today so be back before sunset" "Alright Mama," she said running off to the gardens.

Fire Cove

In the Fire Cove, the Fire Dragon King Igneel was teaching his son Natsu new Dragon moves. "One more time Natsu and we'll be done for the day" "Alright," said Natsu. He took a deep breath and yelled " FIRE DRAGON ROOOOAR!!!! " "Very good Natsu, keep that up and maybe you'll be as good as me" "Really" "One day" "Aw come on dad that's not fair" "Haha sorry kid couldn't resist," said Igneel.

 Natsu Dragneel was a hyper 8-year-old boy. He had spiky pink hair that seems to stick up everywhere. His magic of course is Fire Dragon Slayer magic since he is the Fire Dragon Prince. His father, however, was in his humanoid form. Igneel was a tall man with long deep red hair that matched his scales when he was in his dragon form and pure onyx eyes.

"Igneel, you must stop teasing your child," said a female voice from behind. Both Natsu and Igneel turned to see the other dragon royalty with their children walking up to them in their own humanoid forms. 

Wendy the youngest, who is 4, has blue hair that flows with the sky. Her magic is Sky Dragon Slayer magic. Grandine stood tall but not as tall as the male dragons. She had pure white hair that reached her waist and sky blue eyes. Gajeel, Sting, and Rogue are the same age as Natsu. Gajeel is 8 years old with pitch-black hair and his magic is Iron Dragon Slayer magic. Metalicana was the tallest out of all of them and he had dark gray hair that he had pulled into a long ponytail and he had dark eyes. Sting and Rogue are both 8 years old. Sting has blond hair and Rogue has dark brownish hair and their magic is Light and Shadow Dragon Slayer magic. Weisslogia had white hair with a hint of blond but you really couldn't tell and brown eyes. Skiadram also had pitch-black hair and red eyes.

“He's my child Grandine, if I want to tease him then I will" "I know Igneel, I'm just saying" "You should listen to her fire breath" "What did you say metal head"  "Now Now you two no fighting, especially in front of your kids, goodness, knows that they take after you," said Grandine looking over to the 5 kids watching their parents. 

"I agree, I don't need my son watching you two bicker like hatchlings," said Weisslogia. “But dad you and Rogue's dad fight most of the time so why is their fight any different," said Sting with Rogue agreeing with him. Both Weisslogia and Skiadram tried to make up excuses, but they really couldn't. "Oh my, I'm surrounded by brutes. My daughter is going to be a brute herself if she hangs around your sons," said Grandine, shaking her head. “Well, she’s going to need to be a brute to survive in this world,” Metalicana said laughing. The dragon royalty spent some time together before Igneel and Natsu had to leave

"Well me and the brat need to get going we'll see you all later" "Bye guys see you soon," said Natsu, running towards his father. "Hey dad" "What son" "Can I go exploring today" "I don't see why not as long as you are back at the cove by morning" "Okay see you, dad," said Natsu running ahead of Igneel. 'Hmm, he sure is adventurous just like his ancestors' thought Igneel with a smile.

Celestial Garden

Lucy was playing and picking flowers in the garden when she heard her name. " Lucy, Lucy," said the voices from behind her. She turned around and saw her friends: Levy, Yukino, Kagura, Mirajane, Erza, and Juvia. She ran to them giving each of them a hug. "What are you guys doing here?" "Queen Layla told us that you were here in the gardens and we figured that you would be lonely so here we are," said Levy. " Aw, thank you guys," said Lucy.

 Levy, Yukino, Kagura, Mirajane, Erza, and Juvia were Lucy's best friends and her guardians. Each girl has a magic ability. Mirajane and Erza are the oldest out of all of us.

 Mirajane or Mira is 13 years old with white hair with a purple ribbon tied to her hair. Her magic is Satan Soul, a type of Takeover magic. She has a younger sister named Lisanna and a younger brother named Elfman. Ezra is 13 years old with bright red hair. Erza wears armor almost all the time. Her magic is Requip magic, which enables her to change armor and her clothes. She has an artificial eye after an accident. 

Levy and Juvia are the same age as Lucy. Levy is a young 8-year girl with bright blue hair with an orange and white headband. Levy is a smart girl and loves to read. Her magic is Solid Script, which enables her to create words with her light pen. Juvia is 8 years old with light blue hair and a dark blue hat with a butterfly on it. Her magic is Water magic, which she can manipulate and turn her body into water. She has a huge crush on Gray. Yukino and Kagura are a year younger than the rest of them. 

Yukino is 7 years old with white hair with a midnight blue rose. Her magic is Celestial spirit magic like Lucy’s, which enables her to summon her 2 spirits Libra and Pisces. She has an older sister named Sorano. Kagura is 7 years old with violet-brown hair that was tied in a white ribbon. Her magic is Gravity magic. She also practices sword magic with Erza. She has an older brother named Simon. 

"So Lucy, what do you want to do now" "Hm, maybe make some flower crowns and then some magic practice" "Sounds like fun Lucy," said Yukino. "But remember, you have to meet Laxus and his friends later" "Sure Erza, you just want an excuse to see Jellal again" "W-well what about you Mira you just want to see Laxus" "I-i don't want to see that idiot" "Sure keep telling yourself that," said Levy. 'Hehe, I have such great friends but I wish I could go beyond my home' she thought as she watched everyone talk.

 "Hey, guys" "Yes, Lucy" "Do you think that there is something beyond the kingdom" "Yea, dragons" "I know that but do you ever think....that..we would ever...explore that part of Fiore" "Princess, you know very well that we can't go beyond the kingdom" "I know, but.." "Lucy, that is the end of this conversation now, come on, it's time to go meet with your mother," Erza said in a stern tone. "Okay Erza," said a saddened Lucy. As they walked back to the castle, Lucy saw a light in the forest that led into the Dragon Cove. ' I'll go see what that was.....if I can sneak out tonight' thought Lucy.

Inside the Castle

When Lucy and her friends came back into the castle, Queen Layla and King Jude were waiting on them. "Welcome back girls, did you have fun" "Yep, oh here mama daddy," said Lucy giving Layla a pink and yellow rose crown and Jude a yellow rose necklace. "Thank you, Lucy, they're beautiful" "You're welcome, is Laxus and his friends coming over soon?" "They should be here soon," said Layla. 

A few minutes later, Laxus, Gray, Jellal, and Romeo came into the castle. "Hello, Laxus, how are you? ``'' I'm good Lu, you ``'' Good ``'' Alright, where's Mira ``'' Oh, you want to talk to Mira, she's over there with Erza," said Lucy with a small teasing smile on her face.

Laxus and Jellal were around the same age as Erza and Mirajane. Laxus is 14 years old with blonde hair and a thunderbolt tattoo on his left eye and is Lucy's cousin. His magic is Lighting Dragon Slayer magic, which enables him to slay dragons. Dragonslayer magic is only known to the dragons and their kids, but Laxus managed to learn without the need for a dragon due to the dragon lacrima in his body. Jellal is 13 years old with blue hair and a red tattoo over his left eye. His main magic is Heavenly Body Magic, but he knows other types of magic. 

Gray is the same age as Juvia, Levy, and Lucy. Gray is 8 years old with navy-black hair and dark blue eyes. Gray's magic is Ice Maker magic, which allows him to create weapons and objects made of ice. Romeo is the youngest out of all of us. He is 5 years old with dark purple hair and black eyes. Romeo doesn't know any kind of magic yet since he is so young.

"Lucy, can you come here for a minute" "Yes, mama, I'll be back Levy," said Lucy running to her mother. "Lucy, remember when I said that if you were a good girl I would give you a surprise" "Yes" "Well, I think it is time to give you your surprise" "Really!" "Yes, now come on," said Layla, leading Lucy to her bedroom. 

Once inside, Layla walked over to her dresser and grabbed a box while Lucy was sitting patiently on the bed. When Layla came back to Lucy, she set the box between the both of them. "Now Lucy, what I'm about to give you has been passed down from generations of Heartfilia and I want you to promise me that you will protect what I'm about to give you" "Okay mama I promise" "Good girl," said Layla.

 Layla opened the box and inside was a necklace that was designed to resemble the 12 constellations and 10 golden keys with the zodiac symbols and 4 silver keys. "Mama these are the zodiac keys and the Celestial necklace" "I know Lucy and I’m giving them to you, but not the necklace because you are still too young. You will receive the necklace when you turn 18, but you are old enough to have the celestial keys" "Really" "Yes, but you will only get a few every so often like now" "Aw I really wanted all of them, but wait aren't there 12" "Yes, there is. Yukino's mother has the other two and will pass them on to her" "Oh" "Right now, you will receive the 4 silver keys and 1 gold key" "Aw, why only one gold key" "Well, you still need time to develop your magic and I'm sure Aquarius will help you with that after all she is the strongest" "I'm getting Aquarius Yay!" said Lucy bouncing on the bed. 

"Can I summon everyone now" "Not now… in the celestial spirit world, everyone should be asleep and I don't think you would like to summon Aquarius while she is asleep," said Layla as she shuddered to remember the first time she woke up Aquarius. "Aw" "I know, but we will summon them and I will help you form the contracts with them in the morning okay" "Okay" "Now there is one more thing I'd like to give you," said Layla as she handed a pink wrapped present to Lucy. "What is it ``'' Open it and find out ``'' Okay," said Lucy as she tore the wrapping paper. 

Inside was a blue and white journal with yellow stars and moons and it had something on top of it that said ``Written in the Stars. "This is beautiful mama, but why are you giving me this" "Because I want you to write down the adventures that you will have in your life with your friends and possibly your future prince and because I believe that your life will grow and grow" "Thank you, mama, for the gifts I will treasure them forever" "I know you will now, come on your cousin is still down there and who knows what he has said to Mirajane by now" "Yep, let's go," said Lucy holding her mother's hand walking back to their family and friends.

Later that Night

After everyone had left, Lucy went to bed and waited for everyone to go to bed so she could sneak out to that light. 'There are 2 guards outside walking by my door so I guess my only option is to climb out of the window, but the question is how do I get down to the ground' thought Lucy. She looked around her room for something like a rope. Her eyes came across the pink curtains on her bed. She tied them together into several knots and looked below her window to check if anyone was there. 

"Coast is clear, I better go while there is no one here," said Lucy as she threw the rope over the window and started to climb down. 

When she was on the ground she headed to the garden. When she came to the garden she saw the same light as earlier, so she ran that way. 'Good grief, this is a very long walk, but it is worth seeing what that light is' thought Lucy as she walked into the forest.

When she got there, there was a door and when she opened it, she saw a bright light and fireflies surrounding a lake. It was a truly beautiful sight under the night sky. 'This is beautiful, I wonder why there is a door here' thought Lucy as she sat down in the grass by the lake. Lucy was so relaxed that she didn't hear the rustling in the grass. " Who are you and what are you doing in my secret spot?" said a voice. Lucy turned around and let out a scream.

In front of her was a boy no older than her with pink hair and onyx eyes, but what really stood out to her was a pair of horns and tiny wings. "Y-y-y-you're a d-dragon" "Huh, yeah and you're a human" "Yes" "Okay, what are you doing in my secret spot" "I-i-i found it" "Well, leave" "Why should I" "Because I said so" "That's not a good reason" "Yes it is" "No it's not," shouted Lucy. They stared at each other for a while before the boy broke the silence. "You're weird" "I am not" "Yes, you are. Normally most people would run for the hills at the sight of a dragon" "That's rude calling someone weird before you know their name" huffed Lucy. 

The boy stood up and held out his hand as if asking for her hand. "Well, my name is Natsu Dragneel, the Fire Dragon Prince," he said. "Well, I'm Lucy Heartfilia, Celestial Princess," she said, taking his hand and shaking it. 

"Whoa, that's so cool another royal" "Another royal" "Yeah, like the other dragon royalty" "Wow, I didn't know there was a dragon court" "Well, not really it's divided up into 5 different sections of the five elements: fire, sky, iron, shadow, and light" "Wow" "Yeah, you humans don't know much about the dragons do you" "No not really, all I was told about dragons was that they were bad and not to be messed with what about you" "Hm" "What do you know about humans" "Not much," said Natsu looking at the ground. 

"Hey, how did you come across this place" "Well, every so often my dad lets me explore the forest and I came across this place" "Wow, that sounds awesome. I’m stuck inside a castle all day, but sometimes I get to leave castle grounds if I have someone with me," said Lucy.

As they talked, they got to know each other better and about their people. 'It seems that dragons aren't as bad as I thought' thought Lucy. 'Humans aren't so bad, well she isn't, at least she's cool in her weird kinda way' thought Natsu with a smile. "Oh, gosh the sun is almost up I need to get back home" "Wait, will I see you again" "Absolutely, but we need to name this place" "Why" "Because this place is where we became friends" "Friends, you want to be friends with a dragon" "Yeah, I do even if it's against the law. We just need to keep it a secret `` ''Well, I want to be friends too," said Natsu with a big smile. "Now, what should we name this place?" "Hm, how about Firefly Cove, because of all the fireflies that came out tonight" "That's an awesome name," said Natsu. "Well, I need to go" "Okay, bye" "Bye Natsu see you soon," said Lucy as she ran back to the palace. "Bye Lucy," said Natsu walking back to the Fire Cove. 

In the center of the lake were two swans swimming around each other. "Their destinies will be soon intertwined and the rules and laws will soon be forever broken"

When Lucy got back home, she climbed into bed pretending to be asleep in case someone came in, but she really couldn't because of what just happened. She turned her head and saw the journal that her mother gave her, she picked it up and opened it, and began to write.

March 4

Today I would consider this to be the greatest day. First I received this journal and 4 silver keys and 1 golden key. I can't wait to summon them and form contracts with them. So earlier I met a dragon, an actual dragon. His name is Natsu Dragneel and he is the Fire Dragon Prince. At first, when we met I thought he was going to do something with me, but after talking with him I found out that dragons aren't so bad, well most dragons. Well, I guess that's it. I hope no one finds out and I know for sure that Natsu and I will be friends forever. Goodbye for now

-Lucy Heartfilia

Lucy closed her journal and fell asleep and started dreaming about life without the rules of their kingdoms. Little did she know Natsu was having the same dream also.

Chapter Text

5 Years Later

September 8

Today was an awesome day. So my mother gave me 4 more golden keys ( Taurus, Virgo, Cancer, and Sagittarius ) and I've been training with them also with my silver keys. Over these 5 years, me and Natsu still meet in secret at Firefly Cove and became the best of friends. I've learned so much from him like how dragon kings and queens teach their children magic as well as how to rule their respected kingdoms. Natsu also told me about the other dragon royalty and how they all grew up together. 2 months ago, I started to notice that Natsu has been acting weird and avoiding me, and leaving the cove a lot earlier than usual. I wish I knew what was wrong with him.

Goodbye for now

P.S: Erza, Jellal, Mira, and Laxus finally started dating a couple of months ago after years of pinning ABOUT TIME!

Lucy closed her journal, placed it on her dresser with her keys, and got out of bed to get ready for the day. As she got out of bed, her mother knocked on her door and Lucy opened the door. "Good Morning mama" "Good Morning Lucy, are you just now waking up" "No, I was already up" "Writing in your journal I assume" "Yes, mama," said Lucy as she went to her wardrobe closet. "Well, I'll leave you to get ready for the day, and don't forget that you have your lessons today" "Okay mama," she said as her mother left and closed the door. Lucy opened her wardrobe and pulled out a light pink dress with white stars at the bottom. She also grabbed her brown boots from her closet. She put on her belt and grabbed her keys from her dresser and went to the gardens.

Fire Cove

"Natsu, come here" "Coming dad," said Natsu running over to his dad. "What's up dad, do you need something `` ''Natsu, I believe it is time to start the next level of your training `` ''Really! that's so awesome! I'm all fired up now!" ''Before you get your hopes up there are some things you have to understand okay Natsu" said Igneel. "Okay, dad, "Natsu said as Igneel began to explain his training. 

After Igneel was done talking to his son, he turned and looked at Natsu who had an unreadable face. "Son, do you understand what you're going to do" "Y-yes sir" "Good, you may continue what you were doing earlier" "Actually I was going to go exploring again if that's alright" "Of course, it is, but be back before tomorrow afternoon" "Yes dad, "Natsu said as he ran towards his and Lucy's secret place.

Celestial Garden ( Late in the evening)

"One more time Lady Lucy and we'll be done for the day" yelled Yukino. "Alright, Yukino," Lucy said. Both girls grabbed their keys ready for a practice battle. "Open gate of the Maiden Virgo" "Open gate of the Balance Libra" shouted both girls. Appearing in front of them was a pink-haired girl in a maid outfit and handcuffs and a gypsy girl with weights at the end of her fingers. "Are both wizards ready ``'' Ready ``'' Alright, begin" said Erza to signal them to start. 

The celestial spirits started their training as well as their owners. The training went on until Lucy and Yukino used up their magic and had to send their spirits back to the Celestial World. "Great job Lady Lucy, you are doing much better in holding out your magic" "Thank you Yukino, but you don't have to keep calling me Lady Lucy just Lucy is fine Yukino" "Okay Lucy," Yukino said smiling. 

As they were walking back to the castle, Lucy noticed that it was almost sunset and she remembered that she had to meet Natsu at Firefly Cove. " Natsu, I hope you'll be there. I really miss you," thought Lucy. "Lucy, what's wrong, are you okay," said Juvia. "Huh, oh yeah I'm fine I'm just tired" "Well, okay don't overwork yourself. Lucy, go to your room and rest," said Levy. "Okay, I will," Lucy said as she walked back to the castle with her friends.

Later that Night

'I think everyone should be asleep by now' Lucy thought to herself. Lucy got out of bed and changed out of her nightclothes to a simple pink dress and black flats with a white bow. She grabbed her keys and the rope she made out of her bed curtains and threw them out of the window. 'Okay, time to go' she thought as she climbed down the rope not knowing that someone had seen her. "Now, where could she be going"

Firefly Cove (Lucy's POV)

"Finally made it, hopefully, Natsu is here," I said as I opened the door. Once I opened the door, I saw a flash of pink in the bushes and a pair of red dragon wings. "Natsu!" I yelled. Natsu jumped and turned to see me running towards him. "I haven't seen you around as much how are you" "I'm good, you" "Wonderful, I got done training a while back and I can now have my spirits out longer" "Cool, that's awesome Luce" "Yep, what about you" "ugh, Igneel has been putting me through tougher training, but it's worth it though" "I thought you had a mock battle against one of your friends" "Oh, I did I could've mopped the floor with Gajeel, but Igneel and Metalicana stopped it," he said grumbling while I was laughing at him. 

We stayed in the Cove just talking and I can't remember when it was just us talking. I told him how my oldest cousin and friend finally started dating their respective crushes. He told me about how the sky dragon queen threatened the light prince for making bad inappropriate jokes around her daughter. We laughed and laughed until we couldn't anymore. I didn't want this to end. 

"Oh, Natsu" "Yeah" "I've been meaning to ask. You've been distant lately, is there a reason" I questioned. He stopped throwing rocks at the pond and went silent. "I gotta be honest Luce" "Yes" "I...I can't say" he mumbled. "Why not" "Because" "Because why Natsu," I said standing up. "I'm your friend Natsu and friends don't keep secrets from each other," I said yelling. 

I looked at him and saw that he was shocked by my outburst. "Am I even your friend anymore" "Of course you are Lucy. You mean a lot to me ``'' Then why don't you tell me ``'' Because.....I'm scared ``'' Scared of what ``'' You leaving me once you find out!" he yelled. The conversations went quiet and neither of us knew what to say after that. "Natsu" "Look, Luce I just...I just can't do this" "Wait Nats" "Goodbye Lucy" "Wait, please don't go" I said running towards him as he went through the door. 

By the time I opened the door, he was already gone. "I'm so sorry Natsu," I said into the wind as I felt a tear rolling down my cheek.

Lucy's Room

After the argument, I left the cove and returned home and into my room. "I wonder if he'll even show up again" "Show up where Lucy," said a voice I was all too familiar with. I jumped and saw Laxus leaning against my bedpost. "Wha...What are you doing here Laxus" "Nothing much, just wondering why my little cousin is sneaking out of the castle" "How did you know it was me" "Many things from the dirt stains on your clothes to the smell of lake water. Now, who were you meetin' Lucy" "It...It's nobody Laxus" I said trying to walk past him, but he grabbed my arm. 

"Lucy, don't lie to me because I can tell. Have you been meeting a dragon?" "How could you tell" "His scent and it's not some random dragon... it's dragon royalty right," he said. Knowing I couldn't lie because he could see it on my face, I fessed up. "Yeah, the fire prince Natsu" "Damn it, Lucy! Have you completely lost it? Do you know what could happen to you or your family if someone else besides me found out `` ''I know that Laxus...I know, but the more we talked the more I became interested and we developed a friendship regardless of the rule" I said sadly.

 Laxus let go of my arm while I began to break down slowly falling to the ground. I cried for a good few minutes before I felt Laxus sit beside me and put his arm around me. "I know Lucy I know... look I'm only trying to look out for you because you're family plus you're like the little sister I never had so, of course, I'm going to be protective" "Yeah, I know besides I think our friendship is over anyway" "Why do you say that," he said. I told him about Natsu, his behavior for the last few months, and our argument. 

"How old is he Lucy" "Hm...I guess my age" "I see" "What's that supposed to mean" "It means he and his friends are getting ready for the dragon ritual" "Dragon...ritual" "Every so often when a dragon prince or princess reaches a certain age their parent begins to train them on their respected islands off the coast" "How long do they train for" "Hard to say the longest that history has recorded was 12 years," he said. 

I looked at him shocked. "12...12 years that long for training" "It depends on the offspring maybe that's why he's been acting personally I don't care, but seeing how distraught you were I had to tell ya" "I have to apologize" "Lucy, it's nearly morning also how would you find him. One step into dragon territory and you're as good as dead," he said looking me in the eyes. 

"But" "Look if you want to apologize then here," he said, handing me a journal. "What's this" "It's basically a magic letter. You write your letter and it sends to the person and they could use their magic with it" "Wow, you had this planned didn't you" "Not really, I just had this left from a mission with the Thunder Legion a year ago" "Thank you, Laxus'' I said hugging him. "Alright, enough of that I'll keep this a secret for now" "Thank you again Laxus" "Yeah, get some rest" "Right, good night," I said as he left. I looked at the small book and opened it. I grabbed the quill and began writing.

10 Minutes Later

"Done, let's see if this works?" I said rolling the letter up and tying it in a pink ribbon. 'Please, get to him' I thought as I poured some of my magic onto the paper. The letter, glowing in magic, began to disappear in my hands turning into glittering gold particles in the air. "Well, I hope it gets to him," I said into the night sky.

A Few Days Later

"It's been nearly 4 days since I sent the letter. Did he get it" I asked myself. Since I sent the letter, I've been on a constant lookout for it. 'Maybe he got and is just ignoring me' I thought, turning back to my bed. Before I could lay down, I saw several sparks in front of me. "Wha... What" I said. The bright sparks started to form a shape and then started to burn down. "Wait, it's Natsu," I said, grabbing the letter from the air. On the letter was mine then below was his response.

Natsu,

I want to apologize for what I said. I didn't mean to pressure you for an answer and say or instead question if you were still my friend. So, I'm sending this letter in hopes that you will meet me again so I could apologize in person. Use this letter and write something below it then fuse it with your magic

-Lucy

Lucy,

I really want to accept so I guess I have to meet you so I could apologize also for everything. The catch is that it has to be tonight after that I'll be gone for awhile

-Natsu

I wasted no time getting ready. I changed into a white and pink dress with black boots then I threw my rope out of the window. Before I left, I grabbed the apology present I made for Natsu. Once I was out of the castle, I sprinted towards the forest.

Firefly Cove

I walked through the door and looked around for a flash of pink or red. "Am I too late?" "No, you're just in time," said a voice. I turned around and saw Natsu standing there with his hands behind his back. "Natsu, I" "Lucy, I," we both said at the same time. "Ladies first" "Okay, I'm so sorry about our fight. It's just when you became distant, I started to think you were going to leave me" I said looking down.

"Lucy, you know I'll never leave you no matter what. I don't care about some dumb old rule, you make me happy" he said pulling me into a hug. "I'm so sorry Luce, I should have just said what was goin' on instead of hiding it. I have to go away for a while" "For training...I know" "Wait, you know," he said pulling away from me. 

"Before you say anything, I found out from Laxus, you know the one with dragon DNA from a lacrima" "Yeah, of course, someone would… wait he found out you were seein' me'' “Yeah, he caught me sneaking out, but he promised to keep it a secret" "Okay..good so how much do you know about the dragon ritual" "Not much just what Laxus told me. Dragons take their heir and train them" "That's the blunt end of it. Our parents do take us to train, but not only to get stronger. We have to fight other dragon children for the title of the crown prince or princess" "Fight other dragons" "Yep, it's like a duel to see who is the strongest among our respected element" he said. 

I stood there processing what he told me. "What happens if you lose" "Me and Igneel would be dethroned and exiled to the backlands of Fiore," he said in a numb voice. I gasped at what he said. The Fiore backlands are the most dangerous area and it is rumored that the black dragon Ancologia dwells. 

"Well...you just have to win. I believe in you Natsu`` ''Really" "Really, really, and to ensure your victory, I made you this. It was meant to be an apology gift" I said, handing him a handwoven pink and red bracelet with small yellow stars on it. "Wow, Luce I don't know what to say" "Don't say anything, just wear it throughout the time you are training. In a way, it's like I'm with you cheering for you" I said blushing. I looked up and saw that Natsu was blushing also. "Thank you, Luce, I'll wear it forever," he said with his face beaming with a smile while he put the bracelet on his right wrist. "Looks good on you" 

"Thanks, now I feel like my present was wasted" "Huh," I said. "Here, it was my apology present to you a for yellin' at you an' stuff," he said handing me a gold bracelet with a small flame in the center. "It's so beautiful Natsu, thank you," I said smiling while putting the bracelet on my left wrist. I pulled Natsu into a hug and he hugged me back. "I don't want you to go" "I don't either, but it's tradition and I can't go against that " "Yeah, I know" I mumbled into his shoulder. 

We stood there holding each other for what felt like forever. 

"Hey, could something do something dragon real quick" "Um..sure" "Okay, close your eyes" "Okay," I said, closing my eyes. I felt something warm brush against the center of my forehead. "There it's done" "What did you do" "A dragon promise" "A dragon promise" "Yup, it's something I saw one of the other dragons do" "What's the promise" "That I would come back to you after the training is done and I'm holding the title of the crown prince," he said beaming. "That's a huge promise, better make sure you keep it" "I plan on it," he said, hugging me one last time. 

We let go of each other and began walking towards the door knowing that everything was going to be alright.

Chapter Text

After the friends departed, each of them went on separate paths to better each other. In this case, Celestial Princess Lucy undergoes her own training to become a better wizard and take up the mantle and title of Celestial Crown Princess.

Year 1- September 2, X784 (Age: 14)

September 2

Another year goes by here in the Celestial Kingdom, and another year without Natsu. I am now 14 years old. My training has progressed and I can now receive another gold key in the form of Scorpio, Aquarius’ boyfriend. 

In a year, I will begin my training to become the crown princess of my homeland and then follow in my mother’s footsteps in becoming queen. I just hope that when this happens, Natsu is there to see it without the law hanging over us.

Bye, for now,

Lucy

Year 2- June 12, X785 (Age: 15)

Dear Natsu,

How are you and how is your training going? I can’t believe that it has been 2 years since we last saw each other. I hope that you are doing well and succeeding in your training. Soon I will begin my training to become the Crown Princess of the Celestial Kingdom after my birthday, July 1st. 

I hope one day when I take the throne to become queen, you will be there to see it.

Your friend, 

Lucy

Year 3-April 18, X786 (Age: 16)

Dear Natsu,

Guess what?! I have another key! This time I have the spirit named Gemini the twin spirit. Gemini can make a clone of someone. This will be a useful trick in learning magic. Great, I’m rambling now, but enough about me what about you? From the sounds of your last letter that training for you and your friends has intensified. 

I hope you can achieve your goals Natsu. I know you can do it!

Your best friend,

Lucy 

Dear Lucy, 

Thank you for your last letter! Training is going well and congrats on the new key. I gotta be honest with ya training has been challenging at times, but knowing that you’re cheering me on makes this training worth it.

Right now, I’m learning some dragon slayer secret art from Igneel, but you can’t tell anyone else!

Good luck with your training Lucy!

Your best buddy,

Natsu

Year 4- December 13, X787 (Age: 17)

December 13

Well, it’s been nearly 4 years since Natsu and I last saw each other. From the sounds of it, his training has reached an all-time high, and can’t communicate with me as much as he wants to, but I cherish the moments when we can talk. 

As of right now, I now possess the keys of both Loke and Aries. Well, they’re like a package deal. Both had the same master in a previous time before they were brought to my family so they know each other and how the other operates so it would make sense to have them both at the same time. 

Even though Leo or rather Loke, as he wants to be called, is a flirt I can tell that it’s an act because he’s too into Aries to mean any of his flirts towards me and any other woman. Aries also is slowly becoming more open due to Loke’s influence. 

These last four years without Natsu have been truly lonely, but just as I must fulfill so does he. Whenever I ask Laxus about the dragons’ training his answer is that it takes “a long time for a young dragon to excel and ascend the throne.” I just hope that Natsu is safe and will be able to return to me safely with the title of Crowned Fire Dragon Prince.

Well, that’s all for now 

Lucy Heartfilia

Year 5- July 1, X788 (Age: 18)

“It’s finally time. God, I’m so nervous” I said, pacing back and forth in front of my dresser. A knock on my door stopped me from my senseless pacing. “Come in,” I said. “Lucy, dear are you alright,” my mom said, coming through my door and closing it right behind her. “Yeah, I’m alright…It’s just so nerve-racking you know. I will become the crowned princess of an entire country and receive a family heirloom that has been passed down for generations. No pressure,” I rambled. “Lucy, my dear calm down,” mom chuckled. 

Mom pulled me in front of my vanity and sat me in front of the mirror and began brushing my hair. 

“I know you’re nervous, but there is nothing to worry about” “You say that but mom I’m terrified” “And what, pray tell, has you so terrified Lucy,” she said pulling some strands out of my face. “I don’t know mom…I just feel this overwhelming sense of anxiety” “Ah, so that’s what it is” “What is it” I said turning to her. 

She looked at me with an all-knowing smile and gently turned me back to the mirror. 

“It’s called responsibility my dear star” “Ugh, really mom” “Really dear,” she said laughing while pulling some of my hair in an upward position. 

“I’m just worried that I might not be as good at this thing as you when you became crowned princess” “Oh, darling, no one is going to expect you to be like me. You are going to rule the way you want to and not because someone or anyone on the council expects you to be like me,” she says. 

Mom made me look at myself in the vanity mirror and I was shocked at what I saw. My hair was curled and pulled into a high ponytail with two strands of hair framing my face.

“Oh, wow…I look” “Beautiful my star,” Mom said, putting her face near mine. “Now, I think it’s time to go, Lucy,” she said. I inhaled a short breath and exhaled. “Ready, as I’ll ever be” “Good, now Laxus will escort you to the throne room and present you. I’ll see you out there my darling. I am so proud of you Lucy, just remember me and your father love you so much,” mom said pulling me into her arms and for the first time I didn’t feel like the world was coming down on me but it was lifting me up. “I love you too, mom,” I said, returning her hug. 

We held each other for what felt like hours, but we had to soon let go. Mom dried my tears and gave me an encouraging smile before she turned towards my door. “You’ll do great Lucy,” she said, turning the handle and walking out. 

Soon, it was just me. I walked over to my vanity and pulled out the bracelet Natsu gave me. I put it on my wrist so I can have at least something to remind me of him. ‘’Well, Natsu today is the day I become the Celestial crowned princess. I hope wherever you are, I hope you are safe’’ I thought holding the bracelet close.

“Oi, Lucy you ready yet the ceremony is about to begin,” Laxus said from the door. “Coming,” I said walking towards the door. When I opened the door, there stood Laxus in his formal attire. “You ready” “Yeah, let’s go,” I said walking beside him.

“Now, presenting Celestial Crown Princess Lucy Aurora Heartfilia! Long May She Reign!”

Year 6- November 7, X789 (Age: 19)

November 7,

This will be a short journal entry since I have to meet my mother in a few short minutes.

Today, I finally got my final gold key named Capricorn. Capricorn will serve as my celestial teacher for the remainder of my training. I know that there are 12 keys in total but the other 2 are in the hands of Yukino. 

I have to go now. I can’t wait to see what he’ll be able to teach me.

Lucy Heartfillia

“Okay Lucy, are you ready to summon Capricorn” “Yes, mom I’m ready” “Alright then begin Lucy,” mom said as she stepped back from me.

I took a deep breath and said “Open Gate of the Goat! Capricorn!” A gold light surrounded my mom and me and a goat-like figure appeared from the magical gateway. Once the light faded the figure turned to me.

“Ah, it seems like the time for my key to be passed to the next generation. Layla, it’s so good to see you again” “It’s good to see you Capricorn of course your new holder will be my daughter Lucy. Please, teach her everything you know. Lucy has more magical abilities than I did when I was her age,” she said turning to me. 

“I will gladly show Princess Lucy the full extent of her powers” “Thank you Capricorn now would you like to finalize our contract?” I asked. After we figured out our contract, mom had some documents that needed her attention so she left me and Capricorn to our lessons. 

“Now Lady Lucy, your mother has informed me of how far your magical energy has progressed and I must say that I am impressed by how far you have come for someone your age. Normally, most celestial wizards don’t reach your level of magical energy this early in their life,” said Capricorn. “Thank you very much,” I said, bowing my head toward him. “With your level of magical energy and your genuine connection to each one of your spirits, you are more than ready for the next level in your training” “Next level?” I questioned.

“As you are fully aware, your ancestor, Anna Heartfilia, was able to summon multiple spirits to her side during the war against the dragons correct? To put it plainly, with the way you are now you should be able to summon at least 2 or 3 spirits to your side,” Capricorn explained. I couldn’t believe what I just heard. “Have I become that much stronger over these last few years,” I thought quietly to myself. 

“I know what you’re thinking Lady Lucy, you are so much stronger than you think” “You think so?” “I know so, which brings me to my next point. Now, have you heard of Celestial Star Dresses” “I have, but I thought those forms were only for advanced wizards and only a select few have been able to achieve that power,” I silently mused. “Well, that may be true, but you have enough power to reach those forms” “Can I really achieve that?” I questioned. “I know you can with my teachings you should be able to rival that of Anna Heartfilla but to do that you must be prepared to endure highly rigorous magical training that requires a high amount of concentration. Are prepared for that Lady Lucy? ” he said in a questioning tone.

“Am I really ready for that type of training? What if I fail to achieve the Star Dress forms? And even if I did achieve those forms, what if I can only do only a few or one,” I thought frantically. All of these thoughts raced through my mind and just as I was about to go into a full panic attack, a flash of pink and warmth came to my mind. “That’s right, I promised Natsu that we would get stronger together and to do that I must achieve the next level of Celestial magic.

I took a deep breath and glanced up at Capricorn. “I am more than prepared for training,” I said in a determined voice. Capricorn smirked and said “Then let’s get started”

Dear Natsu,

Guess what! I got my final key in the form of Capricorn. He’s going to be my teacher in my remaining Celestial training and I also learned of a level beyond what I was taught. The training is going to be long a difficult, but I know that I will be able to achieve it. Besides, I know you are rooting for me just as I am for you. 

Maybe when we meet again I would have mastered it and you the newly crowned Flame prince.

Lucy.

Year 7- July 17, X790 (Age: 20)

“Sorry, I must have misunderstood you father, but I have to do what now?” “Lucy, you are 20 and it is time for you to find someone to stand by you. Now while it is tradition for us and the magic council to arrange a marriage for you, your mother and I thought it would be better to let you pick a husband” “But father, I’m not ready for marriage like you said I’m only 20,” I argued.

“Lucy, in the coming year, you will be turning 21 and will be eligible for the crown and by tradition, you will need someone of equal status to rule alongside you” “But-” “No, buts Lucy. The first batch of suitors will show up at the palace in the next few days. That is all Lucy,” my father said, thoroughly ending that discussion. 

And so the following days, multiple suitors from all over came to the Celestial Palace to win the favor of Princess Lucy. 

“It was a pleasure to meet you, Princess. I hope to see you again” “Have safe travels back to your lodgings, Prince Ernest,” I said waving him off. After he left, I collapsed onto the sofa with a loud sigh. “That was exhausting” “I agree, Lu. Prince Ernest…was, how do you say enthusiastic at best,” Levy said, placing a tray in front of her. “Enthusiastic, if you call going on a 2-hour rant about the logistics of beauty and wealth” “Well, at least you got some beauty tips out of it” “Ah yes, the proper and correct way to have perfect hair. Very useful information Levy,” I sneered.

“For the past few days, Dukes and Princes have been coming here in hopes of me choosing them as my future king, but none had caught my eye,” I thought. 

“Is there any reason you’ve rejected each of the suitors so far, Lucy? I mean there have been many who have good qualities,” Juvia questioned. “Yeah, they may have good qualities, but once I started talking to them I slowly found out that some of them were borderline perverts, and even if some of them didn’t have that perverted tendency the rest just view me as a trophy wife and don’t care for the citizens,” I grumbled. 

“Well, what do you want in a husband Lucy?” Mirajane questioned.

Mira’s question haunted me up all night and I couldn’t think of an answer or at the very least say what I wanted to say. “I don’t really know what I want in my future spouse,” I thought, rolling in my bed. “Okay before I start spiraling, let me think about the qualities I would find attractive,” I said sitting up on my bed. I got out of my bed to grab a sheet of paper and a pencil. “Now let’s start writing,” I said.

“I want someone who I can depend on in the easiest times and hardest times. Someone who I can confide in, someone who can be my partner in everything. Someone who can make me laugh, we have to trust each other when times are hard. We can protect each other without ego getting in the way, we have to have faith in the other's ability. He has to believe in me.”

I had stopped writing and realized something. 

“All… all of these….they remind me of Natsu. I mean that can’t be true. Natsu is my best friend and it’s forbidden for us to be together anyway, but..” I looked back at my list and reread it again and sighed. 

“What does this mean, do I love Natsu,” I thought to myself. 

After that thought, I began remembering the days when Natsu and I were together, our letters to each other, my endless journal entries about wishing he was with me, and so forth. “Ha, I guess I can’t deny it. I’m in love with the one person I can’t be with,” I thought sadly.

Chapter Text

After the friends departed, each of them went on separate paths to better each other. In this case, Fire Dragon Prince Natsu undergoes his long and grueling training to take up the mantle and title of Fire Dragon Crowned Prince.

Year 1- September 12, X784 (Age: 14)

Once Natsu returned to the Fire Cove, he and the rest of the dragon royalty began their journey to their respective elemental areas to prepare for the dragon ritual. 

The path to becoming the crown prince or princess of different elemental dragons is a long and grueling journey. But before they can proceed with the training, all candidates for the title must learn and achieve the most powerful of all dragon abilities, Dragon Force. 

With the power of dragon force, they can gain all things that make a dragon such as scales, sharper senses, and other traits. Dragon Force greatly increases the damage by the average dragon royalty as well as grants the user more advanced and powerful attacks. However, while it can give the user incredible powers and enhanced physical prowess it has the power to destroy everything.

Achieving Dragon Force is a very difficult process with different requirements and catalysts with the only known method of eating or absorbing powerful or “poison” substances that can cause effects of pain on activation or extreme exhaustion. Natsu achieved this power after absorbing a large amount of Etherion and later became the first fire dragon to activate this power without the use of an outside stimulus. 

Year 2- June 1, X785 (Age: 15)

“Natsu” “Yes, dad,” I asked. “As you know the dragon ritual is a time for us kings and queens to train our offspring for the right to take up the mantle of the crown prince or princess” “Yes, I know and I have to fight through those who are also candidates.” 

“Correct and recently, you have achieved Dragon Force, the most powerful and the most dangerous of all dragon abilities,” he nodded towards me. “Now I fully believe that it is time for me to begin training you in the ins and outs of the dragon court” “Really,” I said with a disappointed sigh. “Listen to me Natsu, I’m not done. Now while I am teaching you the ways of the court I will also be teaching you the combative ways of the court.” 

“Now you’re talking!” “Ha HA! One step at a time kiddo first it's learning about the court then it’s combat” “Fine,” I said with a defeated voice.

Dear Lucy,

Guess what! My dad gave me the approval to start official training for the court. Even though I have to learn all of the boring court proceedings, the combative ways are what I’m most excited about. There are so many fighting styles from previous Fire Dragon Kings and Queens. And I’m sure you’re doing your training in your home and I wish you the best of luck.

Natsu

Year 3-April 18, X786 (Age: 16)

Dear Natsu,

Guess what?! I have another key! This time I have the spirit named Gemini the twin spirit. Gemini can make a clone of someone. This will be a useful trick in learning magic. Great, I’m rambling now, but enough about me what about you? From the sounds of your last letter that training for you and your friends has intensified. 

I hope you can achieve your goals Natsu. I know you can do it!

Your best friend,

Lucy 

Dear Lucy, 

Thank you for your last letter! Training is going well and congrats on the new key. I gotta be honest with ya training has been challenging at times, but knowing that you’re cheering me on makes this training worth it.

Right now, I’m learning some dragon slayer secret arts from Igneel, but you can’t tell anyone else!

Good luck with your training Lucy!

Your best buddy,

Natsu

Year 4- July 7, X787 (Age: 17)

“Natsu, do you remember how our magic came into being?” “Vaguely, why do you ask,” he said, tilting his head. “Because a good crowned prince or king should always know the history of their kingdom” “So that’s why you brought me out here to this area,” he said pointing at a burnt and deserted town. “Precisely, this is where the origin of Dragon Slayer began. Welcome to Dragnof, previously known for being the home of dragons and humans.”

The father, now in human form, and son duo walked into the abandoned kingdom cautiously.

“Dad, is there a reason for us bein’ here” “There is a reason why we are here. I wanted to tell you the true history of our magic as well as a well-kept family secret.” “Family secret?” “Yes, I…I promised your mother that I would not reveal any of this until you were eligible to be a candidate for the crown” “My…my mother, but mom died in the great devastation didn’t she?” “She did pass away during the devastation” “Then why bring her up so many years later?!,” he argued. 

Igneel sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. 

“Your mother did not like me keeping this secret from you, but this was generally something me and the other 5 have done, but after I tell you the true history of Dragnof then our family history will make more sense. Understand?” “......yes sir”

“As far back as our magic exists, dragons have always had an abundant amount of magic and often we lived far from humans, but here in Dragnof, dragons and humans coexist peacefully under the Queen of Dragons, Irene Belserion, and the Dragon Sage Belserion.”  

“Wait there was a time when we lived alongside humans” “Yes, this was during Acnologia’s rampage and the war. He led most of this war before he went back to Fiore now hush so we won’t be here forever”

“Irene was a human with incredible magic and had Belserion’s faith and trust. But most did not like this so Belserion relayed to Irene that the western dragons had begun to attack and eat humans. Of course, this drove the thought of what would happen if an invasion were to happen, would the world they built so diligently fall and shatter the bonds that have formed? Irene held hope that this would not come to pass but unfortunately, this hope did not last”

Time passed and the war waged on. Irene did her best in magical enchantments to instill hope in her subjects, but Dragnof began to lose due to betrayal. Belserion came to Irene and stated to Dragnof would fall but Irene came up with a plan that no one could have thought of. Enchanting a human with the power to slay a dragon is magic that we all use.” “Irene’s plan worked and the western dragons were driven off, but that victory came with a price for all who were enchanted with the power of a dragon”

“Wait! She created Dragon Slaying Magic I thought” “Beleserion made it and then Irene hopped on the idea” “Sorta” “The bond between the human queen and the dragon sage was strong enough to create the magic” “...You mentioned a price.” Igneel sighed and looked at his son with a sad look, “Correct and I’m sure you know what it is. It was the first lesson I taught you when you began learning magic.”

“Even though the war was won, those enchanted by dragons, or as we call them Dragon Slayers, began to suffer the side effects of not being able to contain the power of the dragon. Most were consumed with or by the overwhelming power due to the excessive use of the magic and the Dragon Seed inside of them began to sprout and they began to go through dragonization. This soon happened Irene.”

“Irene was placed in the dungeons by her husband in fear of her becoming like Acnologia. Irene was tortured, humiliated, and beaten by those she called her subjects even telling her husband that she was pregnant with his child did not stop the abuse. Irene began halting her child’s growth with her magic so her child would not be born a dragon.”

“Eventually, Irene was scheduled to be executed and she made one last effort to persuade her husband to let their child live, but the man didn’t want to hear the excuses and attempted to cut out the baby. This drove Irene to complete her transformation into a dragon, where then she destroyed and laid waste to Dragnof beggin’ and pleadin’ to become a human again.”

“...Whatever happened to the baby” “Keep quiet and I’ll tell ya”

“Years passed and Irene was still a Dragon when she happened upon a human wizard who enchanted her to have a human body once again, but she was still physiologically a dragon and will eventually be struck with insanity and the consequences of being a dragon for so long. She then stated that she wanted to give birth to her child as a human, but she had an insane thought to enchant herself onto the baby, but she could not muster the willpower to do it so she left her newborn baby in a church that had been untouched by Acnologia’s wrath.”

“Where’s the baby now and what happened to Irene?” “The baby now resides in the Celestial Kingdom under the name Scarlet. As for Irene, no one knows what happened to her. Most think insanity finally caught up to her while most think she hid away at the same time Acnologia did. Any other questions?”

“Yeah, what happened to that wizard that helped Irene?” he questioned. Igneel froze up at the question and then let out a sigh. 

“That wizard was your older brother” “Wait a minute Igneel! Ignia can’t stand humans so why would he help one” “I never said it was Ignia now did I Natsu” “So what I have another brother out there in the world?!” he angrily questioned. “That’s right, you have another brother named Zeref Dragneel and he is a human.” Questions circled Natsu’s head.

“Let me explain before you explode. As I said there was a time when humans and dragons lived in harmony with one another and the law was never established until after the war. It got to the point where some married and had kids with the other and that’s what happened with me and the others. Natsu haven’t you wondered why you and your friends look most akin to humans than most dragons who have mastered transformation magic” 

“Now that you say that…yeah! I could pass as a human more easily when I perform transformation magic” “You have your human genes to thank you for that. Now your mother, Astoria, was a single mother with one little boy from her previous husband, who passed away during the war and we met in the forest. I won’t go into too many details but we were together for a short time then you were born. At the time your brother Zeref was studying magic along with learning some Dragon Slayer magic.” 

“I thought that we would be able to live a peaceful life, but I was mistaken. Dragons soon razed the village to the ground. I…I couldn’t save your mother. She gave me you and Zeref and told us to get away with the other dragon royalty because at this time the others would have been born. We all barely made it out of the wreckage, but the damage was done. Zeref decided to continue his studies, but I soon found out that he was learning dark magic to revive Astoria something impossible. Fortunately, I managed to stop him before he could cause harm to himself and others. And that was the big family secret any questions, son” 

“Is that why Ignia can’t stand me? Cause I’m half human” “Ignia always had a hatred for humans for killing his mother, so you being half has nothing to do with it” “Are you sure?” “Positive, Natsu. Now I went back to the old village and managed to find some of our old things that survived the attack,” Igneel said pushing a medium-sized chest towards Natsu. 

The chest had a faded red tint with the smell of cinders and ashes of the deceased. The lock has lock since rusted due to time but it fell apart with the slightest pull from Natsu. Natsu opened the chest and inside were several bottled letters as well as a book encased in a protective magic coat. “What are…” “This is a makeshift time capsule your mother and Zeref made because they knew at some point I would need to take you away to train for the crown,” Igneel said. 

Natsu opened one of the bottles and instantly smell sweet flowers and other fragrances that smelt like home to him.

Natsu,

By the time you are reading this, you are 17 years old Happy Birthday my darling. Time sure flies, but to me, you’re still the same baby who would set some of his food on fire. By now Igneel should have told you the true history of your magic and this well-kept family secret. Around this time, I’m sure you are training to take over as Crowned Prince of the Fire Dragons, it’s a shame I would be able to see you take the crown from those other dragons and your half-brother. Just so you know me and Zeref are rooting for you to come out on top. I believe in you Natsu. I love you, my son. Once again happy birthday and good luck.

With love, 

Your mother, Astoria.

Natsu wordlessly picked up the second bottle and opened it, but this smell was more recent and it help the smell of old books and something else he could not place.

Dear Natsu,

By the time you are reading this, that means the war between humans and dragons has ended and the law has been established. It pains me that I will not be able to see my baby brother grow up to be king, but you don't have to worry I have my ways of keeping up with you. Things for me have changed a lot for me. I got married to a woman named Mavis and we recently had twin boys named August and Larcade. I wish you could meet them maybe someday the law will be lifted.

Your brother,

Zeref

Natsu stared at the letters in silence before tears began to fall. Igneel walked over to his son and pulled him into an embrace while Natsu sobbed.

Year 5- July 18, X788 (Age: 18)

Even after learning of his human and dragon lineage, the path to becoming Crown Prince was a long and hard one. During this time, Natsu endured several attacks on his life, but with that, he gained multiple scars.

The scar on his left side was from when Rogue was possessed by an unknown entity. Natsu also gained a scar on his neck from a lesser-known dragon who was banished from the Fire Kingdom. Finally, he gained a scar on his right cheek due to Ignia attacking and fighting him in broad daylight.

Despite his scars, Natsu continues to strive.

Year 6- November 12, X789 (Age: 19)

Dear Lucy, 

Well, this is my last lesson from Igneel then it’s onto the trial for the crown. I’ll admit that this is never wrackin’. It’s literally right there and then I’ll be able to see you again. That is if I don’t choke during the trial. 

Natsu

“Well, this your final lesson in your long and trying journey Natsu. Are you ready Natsu to take on this challenge?” “I’m all fired up Igneel! Bring it on!” he exclaimed. “Ha Ha! That’s what I like to hear. Now the final lesson is mastering Fire King Mode. This mode can only be used once but even you can use your own power to substitute just not as powerful” “What do I need to do Igneel” “Hold out your hand and we can begin”

Natsu reached out and grabbed Igneel’s and immediately a burst of heat came forth. The flame engulfed Natsu and it began to burn. 

“Concentrate Natsu, do not let the flame control you. The Fire King Flame will only submit to the user’s strong will and resolve. Tell me Natsu do you have the will and resolve to control the King’s power!”

“I….I…will…not…give…in!” The flame around Natsu swirled around him before finally resting in his fist.

Year 7- July 17, X790 (Age: 20)

“Ya nervous Flame Brain” “Focus on your own trial Bolts for Brains,” scowled Natsu. Today was the day. The trial to see if Natsu was worthy of becoming Crowned Prince was today. Every king and queen from the 5 nations came to watch the trial go on. As stated, those under the Fire Kingdom rule are eligible to participate in the trial.

“Do ya think he’ll be here?” “Who Ignia? I have no doubt he is Igneel’s blood and my brother” “What are you gonna do if it’s just down to you two” “ Fight obviously,” Natsu said rolling his eyes. “Just don’t get killed out there. I still want to kick your ass from our last fight” “Gotcha”

It didn’t take long for the arena-type area to open for the competitors. Aside from Natsu, there were 40 other dragons in the area and of course, Ignia was there in the midst of them all. “Dragons from far and wide! Today is a glorious day! Today is the day that we find out which of my sons will become the next Crowned Prince!” Igneel roared. “As always, the first part of the trial will begin as a free for all tournament. The rules are the same as always, there shall be no outside interference and if that happens then that person and the conspirator(s) will be punished. This trial shall be done in half Dragtonic form.”

“The last 2 standing will have the honor of facing each other in a duel until the other concedes or passes out! On the 6th toll of the bell, the trial will begin! Good Luck to the contestants and good luck to my sons!”

Igneel hit the bell with his tail and everyone got into a fighting stance.

Dong…

Dong…

Dong…

Dong…

Dong…

Dong…

Everyone takes off. Most go toward Natsu thinking he might be easier than Ignia, but that turns out to be a big mistake. With a burst of heat and fire, Natsu pushed through at least 15 different dragons. He looked back and saw his competition laying on the ground. “No time! Gotta move before Ignia gets the drop on me!” he thought moving onto the group. The arena was filled with smoke and fire as Ignia and Natsu blasted through the competitors. Eventually, when the smoke and dust cleared only Ignia and Nastu were the last two standing while the rest lay on the ground bruised and burned.

“It seems we have our final two! Are you two ready?!” “I’m all fired up, Igneel!” “Same, father” Igneel nodded towards his sons. The arena was dead silent as the two dragons stood in their fighting stances. No one moved or breathed instead wondered which brother would be the first to make a move. In this type of battle most would bet on the older brother, but after they witness the young prince blitz through most of the competition with relative ease one could only wonder which one will come on top. 

Ignia had more fighting experience, but Natsu’s raw and destructive power genuinely overwhelms the other. The brothers rushed toward each other knocking their arms into each other. Both bounced back and rushed at each other once again. Sparks of fire and smoke emerged from the two as they continued to clash. Natsu lets out a Fire Dragon Roar to put some distance between them but Ignia intercepts it with his clawed hand and proceeds to rush at him.

Natus just barely dodges out of the way and in time lands a swift kick on Ignia. The kick connects and Ignia is sent flying but manages to stop himself from hitting the stone wall. “Heh, you’re pretty good for a runt” “Don’t call runt! This fights only getting started Ignia!” Natsu said charging for another attack. Ignia dodges his fists and grabs Natsu’s arm and throws him towards the ground. 

The impact of Natsu hitting the ground caused him great pain. Ignia then proceeds to stomp on Natsu’s chest. Each stomp caused him to cough up blood all the while Ignia was demanding for him to concede. “Shit, visions going bleary. At this rate I’m gonna lose” he thought. Suddenly a flash of yellow and the scent of stardust flashed in his mind.  

Just as Ignia was about to land another stomp, Natsu grabbed his leg and proceeded to push him back just enough for him to get up. Once enough space he got up and dusted himself off. “That’s right I promised Lucy that I would come back to her with the title of crown prince,” he thought with his signature smile appearing on his face. “What are smiling about runt?!” “I’m smiling 'cause I’m about to kick your ass and take the title with me” “Have fun trying runt,” Ignia said charging another attack. Natsu managed to move out of the way and delivers a swift elbow on Ignia’s back. 

Ignia faceplants into the ground but gets back up and proceeds to blast fire toward Natsu, but he blocks each one of his attacks. By this time, Natsu and Ignia a severely injured and almost out of magic. “This…This is the last shot! They both thought as they rushed toward each other with flaming fists. Both fists collided with their face and caused a small explosion. When the dust cleared both brothers were still standing, but Ignia ultimately fell first.

The arena exploded in cheers and roars for the young prince. “DRAGONS! YOUR NEWLY CROWNED PRINCE, NATSU DRAGNEEL!”

Chapter Text

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7 long years have passed as both Natsu and Lucy grew and matured into young adults who were destined to do great things in their time. Lucy has fully excelled in her magic and training to be queen someday and grew into a beautiful star that outshined them all. Suitors all around proposed marriage to the young Crowned Princess, but her heart yearned for another. Meanwhile, Natsu grew into his role as a crowned prince while achieving new heights in his magic. Even with all of their growth and experience, they still yearned to see each other once again.

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May 14 

Things around the kingdom have been going well. Now that I’m crown princess, I get to participate in meetings I wasn’t allowed to and give my thoughts and opinions on subjects that needed to be changed in the kingdom.

Of course, the endless line of suitors has not stopped either. Each one is either duller or perverted than the last. Every single one of them has the notion that they could gain my favor, but my heart yearns for another, someone I can’t even be with. Natsu Dragneel, prince (crown prince) of the Fire Dragons.

It’s been 7 years since I last saw Natsu. There are days when I wonder if he’s doing okay or if he succeeded in his training to become crown prince. I can’t help but worry and wonder about how he is doing. I know having these feelings for him will only end in disaster and the law forbids us from even knowing each other, but I can’t help it. I fell in love with my best friend.

A knock and a familiar voice interrupted me. “Lucy, the meeting with the wizard counsel and the celestial court is about to begin. Your father has sent me to escort you” “Thank you Erza, I’ll be right out!” I said, closing my diary. I straightened out my dress and headed to the door. “Good morning, Lucy, I hope all is well” “Good morning to you as well Erza and yes everything is good. How are Jellal and Rinko?” I questioned. A year ago Erza and Jellal got married and had a baby boy named Rinko and a month later Mira and Laxus got married and had a baby girl named Myra. 

“They’re doing well. Me and Mira often have playdates for them so they can have someone to play with and also give Romeo something to do after training.” “Don’t push Romeo too hard Erza, he’s still young after all,” I teased. “No need. Romeo is a strong and capable young man, I’m sure if he can handle our morning training then he can handle 2 infants for a couple of hours,” she said, crossing her arms over her armor. 

It didn’t take long for us to get to the meeting room. However, a big lighting dragon was standing in front of the door. “You’re late Lu, Erza” “We’re not late, everyone is just simply early. Now before I walk in, what can I expect when I go in” “Aside from the usual speech about how you need to find a husband there is the issue about the increase of citizens, the training of the recruits, education funds you know the boring stuff,” Laxus said, shrugging his shoulders. “Oh, goody more people trying to shove their pick for the next king down my throat,” I sighed. ”Let’s get this over with.” 

“Your Grace, here is the census report you requested,” said an attendant, handing me the report. “Thank you very much” “You’re welcome,” they said, lowly bowing toward my mother. “Now there has been an increase of people and refugees here in the kingdom and the refugee homes are starting to become crowded with the rising numbers. I open the floor to discussion and if anyone has any suggestions.” my father announced. 

And of course, there was a wide discourse in the counsel room because no one could agree. One side wanted to divide some of the refugees by status and wealth while the other side wanted to relocate all of them by magical ability. There was also an issue with the education system we wanted to install.

“If I may, I believe I have the perfect solution to all of our problems,” I said, unable to take the loud back-and-forth coming from everyone. “The floor is your’s, Princess Lucy” “Thank you, Mother. If I remember correctly there should be an empty area just above central, is that correct?” “That is correct, but that area is currently reserved for the fort to train recruits,” one of the councilmen argued. 

“While that is true, how about we combine all three? There is an influx of citizens who can benefit from having a place to call home while their son or daughter can study magic, train to be a soldier, or anything else such as a scholar or a scribe.” “I see what you’re suggesting. Use that one singular area for multiple resources” “Exactly” “But my lady, those resources were meant for the fort, how are we supposed to acquire…”

“Sire! There is an urgent matter that has been brought to the counsel” the young knight said bursting into the counsel room with what seems to be a report. “Young man, all urgent matters need to..” “Hold on. Young man, you say you have something urgent for the counsel” my mother questioned. “Yes, Your Majesty. The report just came in that’s why it wasn’t this morning’s reports” “Well, out with it!” my father bellowed. “It says here that there was a significant spike in the dragons’ territory as of yesterday morning,” he replied.

The room went silent. “What do you mean a spike in the territories!” one of the counsel men roared. “Is there going to be another uprising?!” All sorts of questions were raised all around me, but I couldn’t focus on any of them. “A spike in a dragon’s territory. Could it be?” I thought. I tried not to overthink, but my thoughts did not help in any way possible because they always come back to maybe it’s him.

“Hm, summon the knights as well as all magic users here now. Laxus, I would like you to stay and give feedback as to why this increase has happened.” “As you wish,” he said, bowing to my father. “Very well, this meeting is adjourned.” my father said standing. I gathered my things, but I heard my name being whispered behind me. “Lucy, over here,” Laxus said, quickly pulling me out of the door and behind a pillar. 

“Hey, you doing ok?” “Yeah, why...why wouldn’t I be?” “Cause, you’ve been hella silent ever since that kid read that report about the dragons,” he said. “Is it because of him?” “...perhaps” “Lucy, you don’t even know if it’s him and we’ve talked about this Lu. You need to get him out of your head.” “It’s not that simple Laxus,” I said shaking my head. “Lucy…” “Laxus, we’re about to begin,” my father said, leaning out of the door. “Coming! We’ll talk about this later,” he said, leaving me in the corridor alone.

It’s been several hours since the meeting in between those hours I further progressed my celestial training and some of my royal lessons. Of course, I met with more suitors and each was more boring than the last but throughout the remainder of the day, I could not shake off the feeling that it was him and had returned. “Argh, this is going to drive me insane. Laxus refused to talk to me after the meeting only shaking his head as he left.” I said pacing around my room. “Ugh, I’m going to drive myself insane at this rate. You know what I might as well go see for myself,” I said, changing out of my pajamas and into a long-sleeved midnight shirt with a hood to hide my hair and dark brown riding pants. I grabbed some spare bedsheets and made a makeshift rope this time the sheets were a dark color so they wouldn’t be spotted easily.

I opened the door to the cove and once again was greeted with silence. Only the sound of the swans swimming in the pond lingered in the quiet cove. “Alone once again it seems, I guess that random spike of dragons rumor presented during the meeting was just that…a rumor.” I thought internally. I sat down by the pond and fed the swans in the lake. “It’s been 7 years since I last saw Natsu. I wonder how he is.” I said. The cove was peaceful with fireflies dancing around the lake and swans swimming in complete silence.

But my peacefulness did not last. I heard the door of the cove slowly open and I quickly stood up and hid behind a nearby tree. I heard heavy footsteps stop in front of the pond. “I know you’re here! Come out and show yourself!” a gruff, male voice yelled. I stood still and started to panic. “T-tell me who you are and I’ll come out,” I answered with a shakey voice. “I don’t have to tell you anything, now come out,” he said. I squeezed my eyes shut and slowly stepped out from behind the tree with no other options. 

“I knew that was you…Lucy,” he said softly. When his voice dropped softly, but  I knew that voice. I opened my eyes and saw a tall male with wide maroon wings and jagged black and red horns. He wore a black and gold waistcoat jacket that was left open and matching pants, but what caught my eye was his bright salmon hair and his scale-patterned scarf. I only knew one person who looked like that. “Natsu..is that you. I’m not dreaming, am I?” I whispered with tears in my eyes. “Yeah, it’s me, Lucy,” he said with a nervous smile. It was that same smile that I cherished and missed so much. 

I didn’t when my body started to move because suddenly his hands were wrapped around my waist and mine around his neck. 

“You’re back, you’re back,” I sobbed into his chest. “I’m sorry it took me so long to come Lucy. You wouldn’t believe how hard training was after everything,” he said as he pulled me closer and further buried his head into my shoulder. “It’s fine, Natsu. So does that mean you succeeded in your training?” I said lifting my head from his chest. “That’s right! You’re looking at the new and stronger crowned prince of the fire dragons,” he exclaimed with a smile so wide that it threatened to overtake his face. A smile slowly came across my face and I hugged him closer. 

“Congratulations Natsu! I knew you could do it. You have to tell me everything that has happened in these last 7 years,” I said pulling away from him grabbing his hand, and pulling him down with me.

We sat by the pond and we spent hours just talking and catching up. We laughed and joked as if those 7 years apart didn’t happen.

“So your friend Erza decked that drunkard!” he laughed. “Yep, the man tried to court Erza’s adopted sister, Kagura, and she said no multiple times, he tried to grab her but Erza grabbed his arm and punched him in the face. Keep in mind that she was 5 ½ months pregnant when she did that,” I giggled remembering the event. 

“It doesn’t feel like 7 years have passed by does it” “ Yeah, it feels like no time has passed at all,” I said, sighing. I leaned my head against his shoulder and then his head began to lean against mine. “I really missed you, Natsu” “I missed you too, Luce.”

We stayed for what felt like forever, but even the best of times must come to an end. We said our goodbyes and returned back to our homes. When I returned home, I fell asleep with a smile on my face. 

"Their journeys, fates, and love are just another stepping stone in the laws and rules forever breaking. Soon, dragons and humans alike will be able to walk hand in hand once again."