Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Lucy tugged her tattered cloak tighter around her shoulders as the chilly wind bit at her skin. She tried to keep her pace steady, her eyes fixed on the dirt path ahead, but Natsu's footsteps thudded loudly behind her, his presence impossible to ignore.

"You don’t have to hover, you know," Lucy said, glancing back over her shoulder. Natsu walked close—too close—his pink hair wild from the wind, his scarf tightly wrapped around his neck.

"I’m not hovering," he said, scowling. "I’m keeping you safe."

Lucy rolled her eyes. "From what? The rocks? The trees? Maybe that scary patch of grass over there?"

"Anything." Natsu’s voice was firm, his hand twitching as if he were ready to grab her at the slightest stumble. His gaze darted around the desolate road like he expected a dragon to jump out from behind a bush. "You never know what's out there."

She sighed, brushing her blonde hair out of her face. "You’re suffocating me, Natsu. I’m not some helpless little kid."

"But you’re not as strong as me," he said, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. "I have to look out for you."

Lucy stopped walking abruptly, forcing Natsu to nearly trip over her. She crossed her arms, glaring up at him. "We’re the same age! And I can take care of myself just fine, thank you very much!"

Natsu tilted his head, frowning as if he didn’t quite understand her words. "I don’t get it. Why wouldn’t you want someone to protect you? Isn’t that what friends do?"

Lucy opened her mouth to retort but faltered. The way he looked at her—like he’d fight the whole world just to make sure she didn’t have to—made it hard to stay mad. Instead, she groaned and turned back to the path, her boots crunching against the gravel. "Just... give me some space, okay? Please?"

Natsu didn’t reply, but she could feel him trailing just a step behind, his presence as relentless as always.

Their relationship was strange, to say the least. Natsu was overbearing, loud, and far too touchy, constantly invading her space as though afraid she might vanish if he let her out of his sight. But despite her protests, Lucy couldn’t bring herself to push him away entirely. There was something about his stubborn, unshakable loyalty that felt... comforting.

Not that she’d ever admit it.

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the road, Lucy sighed. The empty world around them felt vast and cold, and the memory of their dragons—her father’s cold indifference, Natsu’s lost warmth—was a constant ache in her chest.

“Do you think we’ll ever find them?” she asked quietly.

Natsu hesitated, his expression softening for a moment. Then he grinned, his confidence as unshakable as ever. “Of course we will. We just have to keep going.”

Lucy glanced at him, her lips twitching into a small smile despite herself. “You’re an idiot,” she muttered.

“Yeah, but I’m your idiot,” Natsu said with a laugh, throwing an arm around her shoulders.

Lucy rolled her eyes but didn’t shrug him off this time. For better or worse, they were stuck together. And maybe, just maybe, that wasn’t such a bad thing after all.

By the time they reached the next village, the sun had disappeared entirely, leaving the world bathed in the soft glow of twilight. The small settlement was quiet, its streets lined with worn stone buildings and flickering lanterns. Natsu’s stomach growled loudly, prompting an amused snicker from Lucy.

“Guess we’ll have to find something to eat,” she said, stretching her arms above her head. “And somewhere to sleep. You’re not dragging me into another hayloft tonight.”

“Hey, the hayloft was fine!” Natsu protested, though his sheepish grin betrayed him.

Lucy ignored him, her attention drawn to a small shop tucked between two larger buildings. Its window displayed an assortment of trinkets and jewelry, glittering faintly in the lamplight. She paused, her fingers brushing the glass as her eyes settled on a delicate silver necklace.

“Pretty,” she murmured, almost to herself.

Natsu, who had been busy eyeing a food cart across the street, turned to see what she was looking at. He stepped closer, squinting at the display. “You like that thing?”

Lucy blinked, startled. “It’s... nice, I guess. Not like I can afford it.” She gave a half-hearted shrug and turned away. “Let’s find some food.”

But Natsu didn’t follow her. Instead, he pushed the door open, the bell above it jingling softly.

Inside, the shop was cramped but cozy, the air heavy with the scent of polished wood and something faintly floral. A middle-aged man with a kind face stood behind the counter, adjusting a display case. He looked up as Natsu approached, his eyebrows raising at the sight of the scruffy boy.

“Can I help you?” the shopkeeper asked.

Natsu pointed to the necklace in the window. “How much is that one?”

The man chuckled, glancing over at the piece. “That? It’s not too expensive. Five thousand jewels.”

Natsu’s face fell. He dug into his pockets, pulling out a handful of loose coins and lint. After a quick count, he looked up, crestfallen. “I only have... uh... a hundred.”

The shopkeeper chuckled again, this time with a touch of sympathy. “It’s for someone special, huh?”

Natsu nodded earnestly. “Yeah. She... she’s been through a lot, and I just thought maybe... I dunno, it’d make her smile.”

The shopkeeper’s expression softened. He reached into the display and pulled out the necklace, holding it out to Natsu.

“You know what?” the man said. “I think it’ll mean more to her than it would to anyone else. Go ahead and take it.”

Natsu’s eyes widened. “Wait, really? But I don’t have—”

“Consider it a gift,” the shopkeeper said, waving him off. “Just make sure she knows it comes from the heart.”

For a moment, Natsu stared at the man, unsure how to respond. Then he broke into a wide grin, snatching the necklace and clutching it tightly in his hands. “Thanks, old man! You’re the best!”

As Natsu bolted out the door, the shopkeeper chuckled to himself, shaking his head. “Kids...”

Outside, Natsu caught up to Lucy, who was leaning against a lamppost, arms crossed. She raised an eyebrow as he approached, his grin even wider than usual.

“What’s with you?” she asked suspiciously.

“Nothing!” Natsu said quickly, hiding the necklace behind his back. “Come on, let’s find some food!”

Lucy narrowed her eyes but didn’t press further, following him down the street.

For now, he’d keep the necklace a secret. He’d give it to her when the moment was right—when it would really make her smile.

And that thought made Natsu’s heart feel a little lighter as they disappeared into the bustling warmth of the village square.

Natsu and Lucy found themselves in the village square, which, despite the late hour, was bustling with life. Vendors called out from their carts, selling steaming bowls of soup, skewers of roasted meat, and sweet-smelling pastries. Warm light from lanterns strung overhead bathed the scene in a golden glow.

Lucy made a beeline for a food stall selling freshly baked bread, her stomach growling as the scent hit her. She dug into her bag, counting out the few coins she had. "Looks like we’ll be splitting a loaf again," she muttered.

Natsu, however, had other ideas. His nose led him to a stall stacked with meat pies, and before Lucy could stop him, he was already holding one up to his face, sniffing it with an almost reverent expression.

“Natsu, we can’t afford that!” Lucy hissed, dragging him away by his scarf.

“But it smells so good!” Natsu whined, clutching the pie like it was a treasure.

Lucy sighed and dug into her bag again, glaring at him. “How much is it?” she asked the vendor.

“Two hundred jewels,” the vendor replied, not unkindly.

Lucy groaned, handing over the last of her coins. “You owe me for this, flame brain,” she muttered, shoving the pie into his hands.

Natsu grinned, tearing into the food with the enthusiasm of someone who hadn’t eaten in days. “Thanks, Luce!” he said through a mouthful of crust.

Lucy rolled her eyes but couldn’t hide the small smile tugging at her lips. “You’re impossible.”

As they wandered away from the stalls, the hum of the village square faded, replaced by the quieter sounds of the countryside. The two of them settled on the steps of a small stone fountain, the cool night air wrapping around them.

Natsu finished his pie in record time, licking his fingers clean before pulling something from his pocket. His face flushed slightly as he held it out to Lucy.

“What’s that?” she asked, her brow furrowing as she took the small bundle from him.

“Just open it,” Natsu said, his voice uncharacteristically quiet.

Curious, Lucy unwrapped the cloth, her eyes widening as the silver necklace caught the light. It was simple but elegant, the delicate chain holding a small charm shaped like a star.

“Natsu...” she breathed, her fingers brushing over the charm. “Where did you—how did you—”

“Don’t worry about it!” he said quickly, scratching the back of his head. “I just... I saw it, and it made me think of you, so... yeah.”

Lucy stared at the necklace for a long moment before looking up at him. “You’re serious?”

“Why wouldn’t I be?” he asked, frowning. “You’re always taking care of me, Lucy. Figured it was time I did something nice for you.”

Her throat tightened, and for once, she didn’t have a sarcastic remark ready. Instead, she slipped the necklace around her neck, the star resting just above her heart.

“How does it look?” she asked, her voice softer than usual.

Natsu grinned. “Perfect.”

Lucy looked away, her cheeks flushing as she fiddled with the charm. “Thanks, Natsu,” she said quietly. “It’s... it’s really nice.”

For a moment, they sat in comfortable silence, the night stretching around them like a blanket. Despite everything—their struggles, their fears, and the endless search for their dragons—this moment felt warm.

Lucy glanced at Natsu out of the corner of her eye. He was staring up at the stars, a goofy grin on his face, completely unaware of how much the necklace had meant to her.

She smiled. "You’re still an idiot," she muttered, just loud enough for him to hear.

“And you’re still bossy,” Natsu shot back, but there was no heat in his words.

The two of them laughed, their voices echoing softly in the quiet night.

For now, they had no answers. But at least they had each other.

Chapter Text

The road stretched on for days after they left the village, their path winding through dense forests and rolling hills. Lucy was growing tired of sleeping under trees, and Natsu’s snoring didn’t help. Still, there was a strange comfort in their routine—his annoying insistence on being overly protective, her exasperated quips, and the way they always managed to share a laugh even when the journey felt endless.

But all that changed when they stumbled upon Magnolia.

The town was massive compared to the tiny villages they’d passed through, its streets alive with chatter and the smell of freshly baked bread. Bright banners fluttered from the rooftops, and children darted through the crowds, laughing as they played.

Lucy’s eyes widened as she took it all in. “This place is huge,” she murmured.

“Smells good, too,” Natsu added, sniffing the air. His stomach growled again, earning a groan from Lucy.

“We can’t just think about food,” she said, crossing her arms. “We need to figure out where we’re going.”

“Let’s just ask someone,” Natsu said, already wandering off toward a nearby shopkeeper.

Lucy sighed, following him reluctantly. She was used to Natsu’s impulsiveness, but that didn’t make it any less exhausting.

“Hey, old man!” Natsu called out to the shopkeeper, ignoring Lucy’s frantic shushing. “You know where we can find a guild around here?”

The man chuckled, pointing up the street. “You’re looking for Fairy Tail, aren’t you? Just head that way, and you’ll see it. Can’t miss it.”

“Fairy Tail?” Lucy repeated, intrigued.

“It’s a famous guild,” the shopkeeper explained. “Full of all kinds of characters. They’re loud, chaotic, and a bit rough around the edges, but they’re good folks. If you’re looking for help or a place to belong, they’re the ones to see.”

Lucy exchanged a glance with Natsu, who was already grinning like an idiot.

“Let’s go!” he said, grabbing her wrist and dragging her down the street before she could protest.

The Fairy Tail guildhall was impossible to miss. It was a towering building that radiated energy, with laughter and shouting spilling out through its open doors. The crest of the guild—a stylized fairy—was emblazoned above the entrance, shining brightly in the afternoon sun.

Natsu didn’t hesitate, bursting through the doors with his usual lack of subtlety. “Hello! Anybody here?”

Lucy winced, stepping in after him. The inside was just as chaotic as she’d imagined—tables were scattered haphazardly, people were shouting over each other, and someone in the corner was lighting fireworks for no apparent reason.

A tiny man with a bald head and a bushy mustache stood on top of a table, his arms crossed as he surveyed the room. He looked up as they entered, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly.

“And who might you two be?” he asked, his voice calm but commanding.

Lucy hesitated, unsure how to respond. Natsu, of course, had no such problem.

“We’re Natsu and Lucy!” he declared, puffing out his chest. “And we’re looking for a guild to join!”

The room fell silent for a moment as everyone turned to stare at them. Then, the small man let out a booming laugh.

“Well, you’ve certainly got spirit!” he said, jumping down from the table. He landed with surprising grace for someone his size, walking up to them with a wide grin. “I’m Makarov, the master of Fairy Tail. Welcome to our little family.”

Lucy blinked, startled by his warmth. “Just like that?” she asked.

Makarov chuckled. “Why not? You’ll fit right in. Now, tell me—what brings you here?”

Natsu’s grin faltered for a moment, and Lucy noticed his hand tighten into a fist.

“We’re looking for someone,” he said quietly. “Our dragons.”

The room fell silent again, but this time, it was different. The members of Fairy Tail exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of curiosity and understanding.

Makarov nodded slowly. “I see. Well, you’ve come to the right place. If there’s one thing we’re good at, it’s helping each other find what we’ve lost.”

Lucy felt a lump rise in her throat. She hadn’t realized how much she needed to hear those words until now.

“Thank you,” she said softly.

Makarov smiled, placing a hand on her shoulder. “No need to thank me, my dear. You’re one of us now.”

As the guild erupted back into its usual chaos, Lucy found herself smiling despite the strange and overwhelming energy around her.

For the first time in a long time, she felt like she might finally belong somewhere.
Lucy and Natsu were quickly swept up in the whirlwind of Fairy Tail’s chaos. The members introduced themselves in rapid succession, each more eccentric than the last.

“I’m Gray,” said a dark-haired boy who seemed normal—until Lucy realized he wasn’t wearing a shirt.

“Erza,” said a red-haired woman clad in armor, her piercing gaze making Lucy straighten up instinctively.

Others waved, shouted greetings, or raised their drinks in welcome. The energy was almost too much for Lucy to process.

Natsu, meanwhile, was already getting into trouble. He had somehow locked eyes with Gray, and within seconds, the two were arguing over something Lucy couldn’t even begin to follow. Before long, it turned into a full-blown wrestling match.

Lucy sighed, rubbing her temples. “He’s been here for five minutes, and he’s already causing chaos.”

“Don’t worry,” a gruff voice said from behind her. She turned to see a tall, burly man with a scar running across his nose. “That’s just how things go around here. You’ll get used to it.”

“I guess I’ll have to,” Lucy replied, her tone dry.

The man laughed, clapping her on the shoulder before wandering off.

The evening wore on, and the guild’s chaos slowly began to settle. Lucy found herself seated at a table, watching the other members. There was a strange comfort in their energy, a sense of belonging she hadn’t felt in years.

Makarov approached her again, his small frame somehow radiating authority and warmth. “How are you settling in?” he asked, pulling up a chair.

Lucy hesitated, glancing over at Natsu. He was grinning like an idiot as he tried—and failed—to arm-wrestle with Erza, who barely seemed to be trying.

“It’s... overwhelming,” Lucy admitted. “But it’s nice. Feels like they care about each other.”

Makarov nodded. “That’s the heart of Fairy Tail. We take care of our own, no matter what.”

Lucy looked down at her hands, her thoughts drifting to the search for their dragons. “Do you think... do you think we’ll find them?”

Makarov’s expression softened. “If anyone can help you, it’s this guild. But remember, the journey matters just as much as the destination. Sometimes, what you find along the way is even more important than what you were searching for.”

Lucy wasn’t sure what to make of that, but his words lingered in her mind as the night wore on.

Chapter Text

The night was quiet as the members of Fairy Tail retired to their rooms, leaving the guildhall littered with empty mugs and overturned chairs. Makarov had been kind enough to show Natsu and Lucy to their quarters, though his explanation quickly soured Natsu’s mood.

“Wait,” Natsu said, crossing his arms. “You’re saying I can’t stay with Lucy?”

“That’s exactly what I’m saying,” Makarov replied, his tone firm. “Girls in the girls’ dormitory. Boys in the boys’. Simple as that.”

Natsu bristled. “But we’ve always stayed together! Who’s gonna make sure she’s safe?”

Lucy sighed, rubbing her temples. “Natsu, I don’t need you to watch over me every second.”

“Yes, you do!” he shot back, his voice raising enough to draw a few curious glances from nearby guild members. “What if something happens while I’m not there? Who’s gonna protect you then?”

“I think she’ll be just fine,” Makarov said, unimpressed. “This is Fairy Tail, not some random village in the middle of nowhere. She’s safer here than she’s ever been.”

“That’s not the point!” Natsu snapped.

“Natsu,” Lucy said sharply, cutting him off. Her tone made him pause, though he still looked like a sulking child. “I appreciate what you’re trying to do, but I’m not helpless. I can handle myself, and you can handle sleeping a few doors down for once.”

His jaw clenched, and for a moment, Lucy thought he might argue further. Instead, he let out an irritated grunt and turned away. “Fine. But if something happens, don’t blame me.”

Lucy rolled her eyes. “Nothing’s going to happen.”

Later that night, Lucy settled into her room at the girls’ dormitory. It was small but cozy, with a soft bed and a window overlooking the guild’s training grounds. She stretched out with a contented sigh, finally able to enjoy a moment of peace.

At least, until someone knocked—no, pounded—on her door.

“Lucy!” Natsu’s voice called from the hallway. “Are you okay?!”

Lucy groaned, burying her face in her hands. She stormed to the door and yanked it open, glaring at him.

“Natsu,” she hissed, keeping her voice low so she wouldn’t wake anyone else. “What are you doing here?”

“I heard a noise!” he said defensively, his eyes darting around the room. “Thought maybe you were in trouble.”

“It was me unpacking,” she snapped. “Go back to your room before someone sees you!”

“But—”

“Now!”

Natsu grumbled but reluctantly turned and trudged back down the hallway, throwing one last glance over his shoulder.

Lucy shut the door with a huff, leaning against it. She loved Natsu like a brother, but his overprotectiveness was starting to get on her nerves.

The next morning, the tension between them was palpable. Natsu sulked through breakfast, poking at his food and glaring at anyone who got too close to Lucy.

“What’s his problem?” Gray asked, raising an eyebrow as he passed by.

“Don’t ask,” Lucy muttered, shooting Natsu a warning look.

Erza, who had been watching the exchange in silence, finally spoke up. “Natsu, you need to respect boundaries. Lucy is more than capable of taking care of herself, and you won’t always be there to shield her.”

Natsu’s frown deepened, but he didn’t argue. Instead, he pushed his plate away and stood abruptly. “I’m going to train,” he muttered, stomping out of the guildhall.

Lucy watched him go, her frustration warring with guilt. She knew he meant well, but he couldn’t keep treating her like she was fragile.

Erza placed a hand on her shoulder, offering a small, reassuring smile. “He’ll come around. He just needs time to adjust.”

Lucy nodded, though she couldn’t shake the feeling that Natsu’s stubbornness was only going to make things more complicated.

The rest of the day passed in relative peace, though Lucy couldn’t help but feel the weight of Natsu’s absence. Despite his overbearing nature, he was her closest friend—her only family, really—and knowing he was upset left a sour taste in her mouth.

By late afternoon, she decided to find him. It wasn’t hard; the distant sound of crashing rocks and guttural shouts led her straight to the guild’s training grounds.

Natsu was there, shirtless and drenched in sweat as he pummeled a large boulder into dust. His movements were wild, full of unrelenting frustration.

Lucy crossed her arms and leaned against a nearby tree, waiting until he noticed her.

“What do you want?” Natsu grumbled, not looking at her as he launched another punch.

“To talk,” she said plainly.

“I’m busy.”

“Natsu,” she said firmly, her tone brooking no argument.

He stopped mid-swing, letting out a long sigh before turning to face her. His expression was guarded, his usual grin nowhere to be found.

“You’re mad at me,” Lucy said, cutting straight to the point.

“Yeah, I am,” he admitted. “But not for the reason you think.”

Lucy blinked, caught off guard. “Then why?”

“Because I’m scared,” he said, his voice low but raw with emotion. “We’ve been on our own for so long, and I’m used to watching your back. It’s what I do. But now we’re here, and everyone’s acting like I can just... stop.”

Lucy’s heart softened at his words. She stepped closer, placing a hand on his arm. “Natsu, you don’t have to stop. I know you’ll always have my back. But you can’t protect me from everything, and you shouldn’t have to.”

He stared at her, his eyes searching hers. “What if I lose you?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

“You won’t,” she said firmly. “We’re in this together, remember? You’re not the only one watching out for someone. I’m here for you too.”

For a moment, Natsu didn’t respond. Then, slowly, a small smile crept onto his face. “You always know what to say, don’t you?”

Lucy grinned. “Someone has to keep you in line.”

The tension between them eased after that. By the time they returned to the guildhall, they were back to their usual banter, though Natsu still gave the girls’ dormitory a wary glance.

The rest of the guild welcomed them with open arms, pulling them into the evening’s festivities. Gray challenged Natsu to a rematch, which quickly escalated into another brawl. Lucy rolled her eyes but couldn’t suppress a smile as she watched the chaos unfold.

As the evening’s chaos mellowed into the usual camaraderie, a curious question sparked a new conversation among the guild members. Gray, sitting cross-legged on a table with his shirt still conspicuously missing, leaned forward and asked, “So, what kind of dragons are you two looking for anyway?”

The question made the room go quiet. The casual noise of cups clinking and light chatter paused as everyone turned their attention to Lucy and Natsu.

Lucy exchanged a glance with Natsu, who grinned wide, his earlier frustrations seemingly forgotten. “I’m looking for Igneel,” he declared proudly, his fist pumping the air. “He’s the Fire Dragon King! He taught me everything I know.”

“And by ‘everything,’ you mean how to start a fight in ten seconds or less,” Gray muttered under his breath, earning a snicker from the nearby members.

Natsu ignored him, his eyes gleaming with the same fierce determination that had carried him through every step of his journey. “Igneel’s the best. No one else comes close. And when I find him, I’m gonna show him how strong I’ve gotten!”

Erza nodded thoughtfully. “A fire dragon, then. That explains your... fiery disposition.”

Lucy smiled softly as she picked up the thread. “I’m looking for Aquarius,” she said, her voice quieter but no less determined. “She’s a celestial dragon.”

Several heads tilted in confusion. “Celestial dragon?” Gray asked.

“She’s connected to the stars,” Lucy explained. “Graceful, radiant, and impossibly beautiful. She doesn’t just breathe fire or manipulate the earth—her magic feels like it flows through the cosmos itself. She always told me that the stars guide our paths, and that my magic was tied to those same paths.”

“Whoa,” someone murmured, impressed.

Erza folded her arms, a small smile gracing her lips. “A celestial dragon. That’s rare even among dragons. I’ve heard of them, but I’ve never seen one.”

Natsu, however, couldn’t help but interrupt. “Yeah, yeah, Aquarius is great and all, but wait until you see what I can do! I’m a Fire Dragon Slayer, after all!”

He stood abruptly, the fire in his belly almost literal as flames began to spark from his hands. “Watch this!”

Before anyone could stop him, Natsu unleashed a torrent of flames, his hands glowing like molten lava as he punched the air. The heat rippled across the room, sending papers flying and causing several members to shield their faces.

“That’s my Fire Dragon’s Iron Fist!” he declared proudly, striking a dramatic pose.

Gray groaned. “Showoff.”

Lucy rolled her eyes but stepped forward, her movements the polar opposite of Natsu’s chaotic energy. Where his demonstration had been loud and brash, hers was calm and deliberate.

With a wave of her hand, the air seemed to shimmer, tiny motes of light gathering around her. They sparkled like stars, swirling in a graceful dance before forming intricate constellations that glowed softly in the dim room.

“That’s beautiful,” Erza said, her voice filled with awe.

Lucy smiled, her eyes glowing faintly as she channeled the celestial magic. “This is a glimpse of what Aquarius taught me. It’s not destructive like Natsu’s fire, but it’s just as powerful in its own way.”

Natsu huffed, crossing his arms. “Yeah, yeah, it’s pretty and all, but can it punch through a mountain?”

“Not everything has to punch through a mountain, Natsu,” Lucy shot back, though there was a playful edge to her voice.

The guild broke into laughter, the tension dissolving into lighthearted teasing and awe.

Makarov, who had been quietly observing from his spot on the bar, raised his glass. “To new dragons, old friends, and the paths we all travel. May your search lead you to exactly what you’re looking for—and more.”

The guild raised their glasses in unison, cheers echoing through the hall as the night wore on.

Chapter Text

The next few days in Fairy Tail were a whirlwind of activity. Natsu and Lucy found themselves immersed in the guild’s daily routines, though neither of them could completely shake the feeling of restlessness that had settled in their bones. Every conversation seemed to lead back to one thing: finding their dragons.

Natsu, despite his stubbornness, spent hours training with the other Dragon Slayers in the guild, always trying to push himself further. Gray would often challenge him, and though Natsu would win most of the time, the fights only served to further fuel his determination. It was as if he could feel Igneel’s presence just out of reach, urging him forward with every punch and flame he summoned.

Lucy, on the other hand, focused on honing her celestial magic. The stars always seemed so distant, but the more she practiced, the clearer her connection to Aquarius became. She could feel her power growing—each constellation she summoned glimmered with an otherworldly light, as though the stars themselves were guiding her toward something greater. It was a feeling she could never explain, but it was as real to her as the air she breathed.

One morning, as Lucy was practicing in a quiet corner of the guildhall, Makarov approached her with a thoughtful look on his face.

“Lucy,” he said gently, “have you considered going on a mission with the guild? It’s a good way to gain experience, and who knows? You might stumble upon some clue that leads you closer to Aquarius.”

Lucy paused, letting the last of her magic dissipate into the air, leaving behind a trail of sparkling stardust. She nodded, wiping a bead of sweat from her forehead. “I’ve been thinking about it, actually. I want to do more than just wait around. I need to take action.”

Makarov smiled, his eyes twinkling. “That’s the spirit. There’s a request on the board that might suit you. It’s a bit dangerous, but with your skills and the right partner…” His voice trailed off, as though he were mulling over possibilities.

Lucy tilted her head. “What’s the mission?”

He handed her a small parchment, which she quickly unfurled. It was a request from a town on the outskirts of the kingdom, one plagued by mysterious disappearances in the nearby forest. The request was simple: investigate the cause and bring back any information.

“Sounds like a typical guild mission,” Lucy said, her mind already racing through what it might entail. “But why do you think it’s a good match?”

“Because it’s not just any forest,” Makarov said, lowering his voice slightly. “There have been rumors of strange creatures and unnatural occurrences in that area. For a Celestial Mage like you, it might be the perfect opportunity to uncover more about your connection to Aquarius.”

Lucy frowned, the weight of his words sinking in. “Strange creatures? That sounds dangerous.”

“You’re stronger than you think,” Makarov said with a knowing smile. “And you won’t be going alone.” He glanced toward the door, where Natsu was chatting animatedly with Gray. “I think Natsu would be a good companion for this mission. His fire might be just what you need.”

Lucy hesitated. The idea of traveling with Natsu was appealing, but it also made her uneasy. His overprotectiveness had always been a double-edged sword. She couldn’t help but wonder if he’d let her do her part, or if he’d try to handle everything himself.

Before she could voice her concerns, Natsu bounded over, his usual grin plastered on his face. “What’s this about a mission?” he asked, eyes lighting up with excitement.

Makarov chuckled. “You’re just in time. I was about to suggest you accompany Lucy on a job to the forest near the edge of the kingdom. It’s not too far, but it’s got its dangers. I think it could be a good chance for you both to get some experience.”

Natsu’s eyes sparkled. “Danger? You know I love danger!” He looked at Lucy, his grin widening. “What do you say, Lucy? Think we can handle it?”

Lucy smiled despite herself, though she was still unsure of what to think. “I suppose it’s better than staying here and doing nothing.” She turned to Makarov. “We’ll take it. But we’ll need supplies and information about the forest.”

Makarov nodded. “I’ll have Mira prepare a map and some supplies for you. The guild will support you.”

The next morning, Natsu and Lucy set out on their first official mission together. It was simple enough—a request to investigate mysterious disappearances near a forest on the outskirts of the kingdom. Nothing about it screamed danger, but the air still felt tense with unspoken expectations.

Lucy glanced at the paper Makarov had given her. The ink was a bit faded, and some of the words were unfamiliar. She squinted at it, trying to make sense of the jumbled letters.

Natsu, walking beside her, peered over her shoulder, his expression puzzled. “What’s it say?”

“I... I think it says people have been disappearing,” Lucy said slowly, stumbling over a few of the words. “They’re afraid of something in the forest.”

Natsu raised an eyebrow. “Yeah, that’s what the request said, but I can’t read so good either.” He snatched the paper from her hands, giving it a quick look before tossing it aside. “Who needs reading anyway? Let’s just go punch whatever’s out there!”

Lucy bit back a smile, glad she wasn’t the only one who struggled with reading. “I don’t think it’s that simple, Natsu. We should at least figure out what’s causing the disappearances before we go in swinging.”

Natsu grinned at her, undeterred. “You think too much. We’ll figure it out as we go.”

Lucy shrugged. “I suppose you’re right.”

As they continued along the road toward the forest, Lucy felt a sense of calm. She wasn’t sure why; maybe it was the simplicity of the mission, or maybe it was just the familiarity of being with Natsu. Their bond had always been one of unspoken understanding—he was her rock, even if he was often a bit reckless.

The forest appeared as they rounded the last bend in the road, a dense mass of trees stretching out before them. It was quiet—too quiet. Lucy glanced around, frowning at the absence of the usual sounds of wildlife. No birds, no rustling in the underbrush.

Natsu cracked his knuckles, already eager for action. “I’m bored. Let’s hurry up and find this monster!”

“Maybe we should be careful. We don’t know what we’re dealing with.”

Lucy’s voice was calm, but even she could feel the weight of the silence pressing in on them.

They walked deeper into the forest, the path becoming less and less clear. The trees towered above them, their thick branches intertwining to block out most of the light. The air was damp, the smell of earth and moss heavy in the air. It was eerily peaceful, almost as though the forest was holding its breath.

Natsu finally stopped, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the area. “I don’t like this. Something’s off.”

“I know,” Lucy agreed, looking around uneasily. “But there’s no sign of anything dangerous yet. Let’s just keep going.”

As they moved forward, they reached a clearing with a small, abandoned house on the edge. The walls were cracked, and the roof sagged as if it hadn’t been used in years. A strange chill filled the air, making Lucy shiver despite the warmth of the afternoon sun.

Natsu’s nose twitched. “I smell something,” he said, his usual carefree attitude replaced with a more serious edge.

“Something like what?”

“Something... weird. Not like a monster or anything, but like... something bad happened here.”

Lucy stepped forward, cautiously examining the surroundings. There were no signs of recent activity—no footprints, no broken branches—but the eerie silence continued to hang around them.

“I don’t think there’s anything here anymore,” Lucy murmured. “Maybe the people who lived here just left. Maybe that’s why people were disappearing.”

Before she could say more, Natsu suddenly sprinted toward the house, his eyes alight with his usual excitement. “Who cares? Let’s check it out anyway!”

Lucy sighed, rolling her eyes but following him. As much as she wanted to be cautious, she knew Natsu wouldn’t listen. She kept her guard up, just in case.

The door of the house creaked open, revealing a dim, dusty interior. The walls were lined with old furniture, some of it overturned. But there was nothing unusual—just the usual signs of abandonment.

Natsu grabbed a chair and tossed it aside, then kicked open a cupboard. “Nothing here either,” he grumbled, moving from room to room in search of something—anything—of interest.

Lucy shook her head but couldn’t help but smile. “You know, Natsu, you’re pretty good at finding trouble.”

“Trouble finds me!” Natsu shot back, his voice echoing through the empty house.

Lucy rolled her eyes and stepped into another room, where the floorboards creaked under her weight. As she moved deeper into the house, she felt a strange sense of unease—an almost imperceptible shift in the air.

Just then, Natsu let out a triumphant shout. “I found it!”

Lucy rushed to his side, expecting to see some treasure or hidden stash. Instead, Natsu was holding up an old, dusty chest. “What is that?”

“I don’t know, but it’s gotta be important, right?” Natsu grinned, clearly delighted by his find.

Lucy inspected the chest warily. “Let’s be careful. It could be—”

Before she could finish, Natsu had already popped it open. Inside, there was nothing but a collection of old, rusty tools and faded trinkets.

“Great,” Natsu muttered, tossing the chest aside. “What a waste of time.”

Lucy couldn’t help but laugh, relieved that there was nothing dangerous hidden inside after all. “Well, at least we didn’t find anything that could hurt us.”

Natsu frowned. “Yeah, but I wanted to find something to fight! This mission is way too boring.”

Lucy gave him a pointed look. “You’re impossible.”

As the sun began to set, the two of them left the house behind and made their way back to the guild. They hadn’t found the cause of the disappearances, but there was no immediate danger, and that was a relief in itself.

When they returned to Fairy Tail, Makarov greeted them with a smile. “Well? How did it go?”

Lucy shrugged. “We didn’t find anything dangerous. Just an abandoned house. But... it was strange. It felt like something had happened there a long time ago.”

“Nothing to worry about, then,” Natsu chimed in, clearly eager to get back to more exciting adventures.

Makarov nodded. “Good to hear. You did well, both of you. Sometimes, the simplest missions turn out to be the most important in the long run.”

Lucy smiled, relieved that the mission was over. She glanced at Natsu, who was already lost in conversation with Gray. She couldn’t help but feel a sense of comfort, knowing that no matter how simple or boring the mission was, they would always have each other’s backs.

Chapter Text

The next day, Natsu and Lucy were back at the guild, nursing bruises from their training, still reflecting on the previous mission. It had been dull, with no monsters, no hidden treasure, but the unease that lingered from the abandoned house was still fresh in Lucy's mind. The mysterious disappearances, the strange silence in the forest—it didn’t sit right with her. But for now, it was a simple task completed, and life had a way of moving on quickly in Fairy Tail.

Lucy had just grabbed a drink from the bar, settling into her usual seat when Natsu bounded over, his grin wide and mischievous as usual.

“Hey, Lucy, ready for a real mission next time? I’m so tired of these boring ones! Let’s fight something big!” Natsu’s fiery excitement was palpable, his fists twitching like he was ready to punch the air at any moment.

Lucy smiled, shaking her head. “I’d rather take it easy for a bit. One boring mission is fine by me.”

Natsu sat down next to her, slamming his elbows on the counter, which made a few nearby guildmates glance over in annoyance. Lucy couldn’t help but laugh at the chaos he unintentionally caused.

"You know, Lucy, I’m really glad we’re doing this," Natsu said suddenly, his voice a bit softer than usual. He kicked his feet up on the bar, leaning back in a relaxed way that was a bit uncharacteristic for him.

Lucy blinked, surprised by the change in tone. “Doing what?”

“Being a team,” he said with a grin that quickly returned. “You and me. We’re great together, don’t you think?”

Lucy’s heart skipped a beat at the unexpected sentiment. She hesitated, then nodded, offering a genuine smile. “Yeah, I guess we are.”

The bond they shared felt deeper than just teammates—it was a quiet understanding, an unspoken connection. The kind that didn’t need words, but only the reassurance that they were both in this for the same reason: to keep pushing forward, no matter what came next.

The moment was broken when Gray walked by, rolling his eyes. “Are you two done with the mushy stuff, or can we get back to doing some real work?”

Natsu immediately shot him a grin. “Who needs work when you’ve got Lucy by your side?” He nudged her playfully, completely ignoring Gray’s sarcasm.

Lucy rolled her eyes, even as a small laugh escaped her lips. “You’re hopeless, Natsu.”

That evening, Lucy found herself in the guild’s common room, sitting at one of the long tables, staring at the newest mission board. She had a feeling that another mission would be posted soon—something bigger, something more challenging. But for now, the guild was quiet, and the sense of calm she rarely experienced settled over her.

Natsu, as usual, was practically bouncing off the walls. He was back to bothering Gray, trying to get him to train with him, but Lucy couldn’t help but notice how he kept glancing at her, waiting for her reaction.

“Lucy!” Natsu called out, leaping over to where she sat. “Wanna go on a job? I think there’s one on the board with a big monster or something! It’ll be awesome!”

Lucy chuckled, glancing at the board. “It’s just a delivery mission,” she said with a smirk. “No monsters this time, I’m afraid.”

“Oh... boring,” Natsu groaned, flopping down next to her and dramatically resting his head on the table. “But, fine. We’ll take it. You know, Lucy, I think you and I make a great team, even when it’s just delivering stuff.”

Lucy looked at him, raising an eyebrow. “Are you sure? Because I feel like you’ll eat all the snacks we’re supposed to deliver.”

Natsu grinned mischievously. “Only the ones that look really good.”

Lucy laughed, shaking her head. “You’re impossible.”

The next morning, the two of them set off on the simple delivery job. It was nothing special—just a few crates of supplies to deliver to a nearby town. The sun was shining, and for a brief moment, everything felt peaceful. The road ahead was clear, and there was a quiet energy between them.

As they traveled, Natsu tried to start up a conversation. “You know, Lucy, I think we should do more missions together. You’re a lot of fun to hang out with.”

Lucy looked at him with a soft smile. “I’d like that too, but we need to make sure we're prepared. Not every job is going to be as simple as this one.”

Natsu tilted his head, confused. “You think this one is hard?”

“Not this one,” Lucy said, shaking her head. “But we’ve only just started. There will be more dangerous things ahead. We’ll need to be ready for whatever comes our way.”

Natsu nodded seriously, for once, the usual excitement dimming slightly. “We’ll be ready. Right, Lucy?”

She smiled, the warmth of his words comforting. “We will be.”

As they arrived at the small town, Lucy began to feel that same sense of unease she’d had after their last mission. It wasn’t that anything seemed wrong—it was just that nagging feeling that they hadn’t seen the whole picture yet. Maybe it was just the excitement of being in Fairy Tail, or maybe it was her own anxiety about their journey, but she couldn’t shake the feeling that there was something more at play.

When they delivered the crates, the shopkeeper thanked them and handed them a small bag of money. It was a small, quiet moment, but as Natsu glanced around the market square, his eyes lit up at the sight of food stands.

“I’m starving!” he declared, already heading toward the food carts. “Come on, Lucy! I’m buying you lunch!”

Lucy sighed, her earlier unease forgotten for the moment. “How do you always manage to think about food?”

Natsu shot her a grin. “What can I say? It’s the best part of any mission!”

And as they walked toward the food stalls, the weight of their quest momentarily slipped away, replaced by the joy of simply being alive and together. There was still much to learn, much to discover, but for now, this moment—simple, ordinary, and filled with warmth—was enough.

Chapter Text

The next few days passed in a blur of simple missions and quiet evenings back at the guild. Lucy and Natsu’s routine had become something of a comforting rhythm. Each task, no matter how mundane, felt easier with him by her side, his boundless energy making even the most exhausting jobs seem like little more than a fun adventure.

Today was no different. The sun hung high in the sky as the two of them made their way back from a rather uneventful delivery mission to a neighboring town. The road was peaceful, the quiet hum of the forest around them broken only by the occasional chirp of a bird or rustling of leaves. Lucy walked beside Natsu, feeling a calm that was rare in her chaotic life.

“So, what’s next?” Natsu asked, breaking the silence as he nudged her with his elbow.

Lucy glanced over at him. “Well, there’s a job on the board that looks promising. It’s a bit more serious, but I think we could handle it.”

Natsu’s eyes lit up at the mention of something more challenging. “Serious? Finally, something exciting! I was getting bored of all these delivery jobs.”

“I knew you’d say that,” Lucy chuckled. “But we need to take it step by step. It’s better to ease into bigger challenges.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Natsu said, waving her off with a grin. “We’ll be fine. Besides, we’ve got each other, right?”

The simple statement made Lucy pause for a moment. She’d always been alone, even when surrounded by people. But with Natsu, it was different. There was a sense of comfort in his presence, something she couldn’t quite explain. It wasn’t just his fiery personality or the constant chaos he brought with him. It was the quiet understanding they shared, even in moments of silence.

“We’ve got each other,” Lucy echoed softly, her smile a little more genuine than usual.

They continued their journey back to the guild in companionable silence, the weight of unspoken words hanging between them in a way that felt more natural than awkward. Despite the lack of grand gestures or dramatic declarations, their bond was growing stronger with each passing day. And Lucy found herself looking forward to what would come next, knowing that, for the first time in a long while, she wasn’t alone.

Back at the guild, Makarov was busy sorting through paperwork when Lucy and Natsu walked in, their footsteps heavy on the wooden floor. The guild was a little quieter than usual—some members were off on their own missions, while others were tucked away in corners, resting or conversing in small groups.

“Ah, Lucy, Natsu. How did the job go?” Makarov asked, looking up from his desk with a knowing smile.

“It was fine,” Lucy said, her tone light. “Nothing exciting, but we got the job done. The delivery was simple.”

Natsu, ever eager to share, jumped in. “I was hoping we’d find some giant monster to fight, but no luck. Guess we’ll have to wait for the next mission!”

Makarov chuckled. “You always want to jump into the thick of things, don’t you, Natsu? But that’s part of being a good mage—a little patience goes a long way.”

“Yeah, yeah, patience,” Natsu said, his enthusiasm slightly dampened. “But I want a real fight!”

“Soon enough,” Makarov promised. “But for now, take a rest. You two earned it.”

Lucy nodded and turned to leave, Natsu following behind her. She paused as they neared the bar, her gaze lingering on the mission board. Another job had just been posted, something more substantial than the usual delivery. Her fingers itched to grab it, but she hesitated.

Natsu, noticing her pause, grinned. “I knew you were thinking about another job! What is it?”

Lucy turned to him. “It’s a monster hunt. Looks like we might actually get some action this time.”

“That’s more like it!” Natsu grinned and slapped his hands together, already bouncing on the balls of his feet. “When do we leave?”

Lucy rolled her eyes, but her smile was warm. “We’ll leave tomorrow morning. It’s not urgent, but we need to be prepared.”

“Good! That gives me time to get some snacks!” Natsu exclaimed, before darting off toward the kitchen.

Lucy watched him for a moment, a small chuckle escaping her lips. Sometimes, Natsu’s energy was almost too much to handle, but it was also what made him such a great companion. He was unrelenting in his enthusiasm, and that enthusiasm often carried them through the toughest of times.

As she took a seat at the bar, she found herself looking forward to tomorrow’s mission. There was something about the unknown that always called to her, and with Natsu by her side, it didn’t feel quite so daunting. They would face whatever came next together, just as they had faced every other challenge before.

But beneath the excitement, Lucy couldn’t shake the feeling that something was coming. Something bigger. Her instincts had told her that much since their first mission, and though she couldn’t quite put her finger on it, she had a feeling that the simple jobs they had been doing were just the calm before the storm.

That evening, after a brief training session in the courtyard and a hearty meal in the guild hall, Lucy found herself in the quiet of her room. She had just finished reading over the details of their next mission again, but her mind kept wandering. She couldn’t help but think about her past—the dragons, the search, and the unsettling feeling that lingered at the edges of everything she did.

Natsu’s laughter echoed in the hallways, a constant reminder that she wasn’t truly alone anymore. But as the day came to a close and the quiet of the night set in, Lucy couldn’t shake the sense that things were about to change. The road ahead was unclear, but she knew one thing for certain.

Wherever it took her, Natsu would be right there beside her.

Chapter Text

The following morning, Lucy and Natsu set out once more, eager to explore the forest and continue their mission. The air was fresh, the scent of pine trees filling their lungs as they trekked deeper into the wilderness. The day seemed peaceful, and the forest was alive with the soft rustling of leaves and distant calls of wildlife.

Natsu was ahead, as always, his excitement palpable. “I bet there’s something huge out here waiting for us to find,” he said, his voice full of optimism. “Maybe a wild beast, or something equally awesome!”

Lucy shook her head, laughing softly. "You never slow down, do you?"

“I’m just ready for action, Lucy!” Natsu grinned back over his shoulder.

They pressed on, navigating the dense forest. As they moved, Lucy caught a glimpse of something strange—something unusual in the underbrush. At first, it seemed like just a large rock, but the more she looked at it, the more it seemed out of place.

“Hold on a sec, Natsu,” Lucy called, grabbing his attention.

Natsu, ever ready for adventure, dashed over. “What is it? Did you find something cool?”

Lucy crouched down beside the object, brushing away the leaves and dirt. It wasn’t a rock at all. The object was large, oval, and smooth, with an iridescent sheen to it that shimmered faintly in the sunlight. It was an egg, though it was unlike any egg Lucy had ever seen before.

“What the—?” Natsu crouched beside her, his eyes wide with excitement. “It’s a dragon egg!”

Lucy furrowed her brows, unsure. “It could be, but... are you sure? I’ve never seen one like this.”

The egg was much larger than a typical dragon egg, and its iridescent scales seemed to shift in color depending on the angle of the light. It didn’t look dangerous, but it did seem to radiate an unusual energy, a sense of mystery that neither of them could ignore.

“Let’s take it with us,” Natsu suggested eagerly, his usual excitement bubbling over. “I’m sure it’s gonna hatch into something awesome!”

Lucy hesitated for a moment. “We don’t even know if it’s safe. What if it’s dangerous?”

Natsu shook his head, dismissing her concerns with a grin. “It’s a dragon egg! How could it be dangerous? It’ll be fine!”

Lucy still felt a slight unease, but Natsu’s enthusiasm was contagious. “Alright, alright. But we’ll have to be careful with it.”

Together, they gently lifted the egg, making sure not to damage it, and carefully made their way back toward the guild. The forest felt quieter now, the only sound the crunch of leaves beneath their feet. But something about the egg’s presence made Lucy feel like they were being watched. She tried to shake the feeling off, but it lingered in the back of her mind as they walked.

Back at the guild, the entire hall grew curious the moment they entered. Natsu proudly presented the egg, his usual exuberance making the whole situation feel almost ceremonial. Lucy’s unease hadn’t quite faded, but she knew there was no turning back now.

“Look what we found!” Natsu grinned widely, showing off the egg to everyone. “It’s a dragon egg! Can you believe it?”

“Whoa!” one of the guild members exclaimed, leaning over the bar to get a better look. “That’s huge! Where’d you find it?”

Natsu gave them a thumbs-up. “Deep in the forest! It’s gotta hatch soon, right?”

Lucy took a step back, her arms crossed. She was still cautious. “It could be anything. We don’t even know what kind of dragon it is, or if it’s even a dragon egg at all.”

Makarov, who had been watching from his usual spot, raised an eyebrow. “A dragon egg, you say? Hmm... it doesn’t look like one I’ve seen before. But that doesn’t mean it’s not. You two did well to bring it back safely.”

The guild members gathered around, murmuring excitedly. Some were eager to care for it, others were more skeptical, but the energy in the room was undeniable. There was a sense of wonder that filled the air, a feeling that something incredible was about to happen.

Lucy glanced at Natsu, who was practically vibrating with excitement. “I still don’t know if this is a good idea,” she admitted quietly. “What if it hatches into something dangerous?”

“I don’t care!” Natsu grinned. “We’ll handle it! Besides, think about it—this could be the coolest thing to ever happen to us!”

“Just be careful, Natsu,” Lucy said with a sigh, though her words held little weight. Natsu was never one to take things slow, especially when he was this excited.

As the guild bustled around the egg, Natsu and Lucy decided to keep watch over it for the night. They made a small nest of blankets and pillows to keep it warm and safe, though neither of them knew what they were really doing. The egg sat there quietly, unmoving.

Later that night, as the guild slowly quieted down, Lucy sat beside the egg, her thoughts swirling. She wasn’t sure why she felt so strongly about it—maybe it was just the unknown, or the strange sense of destiny that seemed to cling to the egg. But she couldn’t shake the feeling that this was just the beginning of something important.

Natsu sat next to her, his usual grin replaced with a softer expression. “You think it’ll hatch soon?” he asked, staring at the egg with a mixture of awe and anticipation.

Lucy glanced at him, her eyes softening. “I don’t know. But I’m sure it will. Eventually.”

And so, they waited. The guild was quieter than usual, but the air was thick with anticipation. Lucy and Natsu sat side by side, staring at the egg as the hours passed.

In the stillness of the night, Lucy couldn’t help but wonder—what kind of creature would emerge from this mysterious egg? What would it mean for them, for their journey, for the future?

Only time would tell.

Chapter Text

Days turned into weeks, and the guild hall’s curiosity about the egg only grew. Natsu and Lucy, along with the rest of the guild, watched it constantly, but it remained stubbornly still. The egg was large and beautiful, but there was no sign of it hatching.

Lucy would sit beside the egg, her arms wrapped around her knees as she stared at it, lost in thought. Natsu was often nearby, bouncing around in his usual energetic manner, but his excitement had waned as the days dragged on. Still, neither of them could shake the feeling that something incredible was on the horizon.

“I don’t get it,” Natsu grumbled one evening, scratching the back of his head. “It’s been weeks. How long does it take for a dragon egg to hatch? Shouldn’t it be cracking open by now?”

Lucy sighed, glancing at the egg with a frown. “I’m not sure. Every dragon egg is different, right? Maybe this one just needs more time.”

Makarov, who had been watching the egg from the sidelines, stepped forward. His wise, weathered face seemed to contemplate the egg carefully. “Patience, Natsu. Everything takes time. And sometimes, what seems like a long wait is just the egg preparing for something... special.”

Natsu huffed, clearly not convinced. “I guess,” he muttered, but his mind was already elsewhere, and the rest of the guild went back to their own business.

Days stretched on, and while Natsu’s enthusiasm was still present, there was a growing frustration in him. He wanted action, he wanted excitement. He wanted to see what would come out of the egg.

That afternoon, after yet another fruitless day of watching and waiting, Lucy found herself wandering around the guild hall, her mind preoccupied. The place was bustling with the usual chatter and laughter, but her thoughts kept drifting back to the egg.

What if it never hatched? What if it wasn’t meant to hatch at all?

As if on cue, Natsu appeared beside her, his usual fiery determination in his eyes. “Lucy, I’ve been thinking,” he said, his tone serious for once. “Maybe we’re just not doing it right. Maybe it needs more... something. I don’t know. Maybe it needs heat, like... fire!” He gestured with his hands as if to demonstrate.

Lucy raised an eyebrow. “You want to set the egg on fire?”

“Not set it on fire,” Natsu quickly clarified. “But, you know... heat it up! You know, like... a dragon egg needs warmth, right? I mean, we’re talking about a dragon here!”

Lucy couldn’t help but laugh a little. “I don’t think that’s how it works, Natsu. Maybe we should just... wait. Let nature take its course.”

“Waiting’s boring!” Natsu pouted. “I want to see it hatch now!”

Lucy smiled softly, rubbing her eyes. “I know you do. But we can’t rush it. Whatever’s inside that egg will come when it’s ready.”

That evening, while most of the guild was gathered for dinner, Natsu and Lucy sat quietly near the egg, their gazes locked on it. The crackling of the fire in the hearth echoed throughout the hall, but all was otherwise silent as they waited.

After some time, the egg began to shift. It wasn’t much—just a slight wiggle—but it was enough to make both of them sit up straight, eyes wide in shock. The egg trembled slightly, and then, a soft, cracking sound filled the air.

Lucy’s heart skipped a beat. “Natsu... is it happening?”

Natsu’s usual excitement returned in an instant, and he stood up abruptly. “It’s happening! It’s finally happening!”

The crack in the egg widened, and tiny shards of shell began to fall away. The two of them leaned in, breathless, as they watched the egg slowly begin to open. It was as though the egg was coming to life, responding to something deep within it, something only it and its soon-to-be occupant understood.

“Come on, come on!” Natsu cheered, his hands clenched in anticipation. “I can’t wait to see it!”

The last of the shell fell away, and there, nestled inside, was a small creature. It wasn’t the dragon they had imagined, but a tiny blue cat with wings, its fur soft and its eyes wide and curious. It wasn’t much bigger than a baby bird, and its wings, though delicate, fluttered nervously. The creature’s tiny face looked up at them, and then, with a small mew, it stretched its wings.

“Wha—?” Natsu froze for a moment, unsure of what he was seeing.

Lucy blinked in surprise. “Is that... a cat?”

The tiny winged cat, its fur the color of a clear sky, looked up at them and let out a small, pitiful sound. Then, it hopped out of the broken shell and wobbled its way toward Natsu, its tiny legs barely able to keep it upright. It wasn’t like anything they’d expected, but somehow, the creature’s presence felt right.

Natsu’s eyes widened, a smile spreading across his face. “It’s a... cat?!”

Lucy, still a little unsure, knelt down carefully and reached out a hand. “It’s so cute,” she said softly, gently petting the small creature. “But... where’s its wings? What kind of cat has wings?”

“Who cares?!” Natsu grinned, reaching down to scoop the little creature into his arms. “It’s a tiny, flying cat! I’ve never seen anything like it before! We gotta take care of it!”

The little cat purred contentedly, curling up against Natsu’s chest. Lucy couldn’t help but smile at the sight. As strange as it was, something about the tiny creature’s warmth felt comforting.

“What do we do now?” Lucy asked, still processing the unexpected turn of events.

“We take care of it! I’ll name it—how about Happy?” Natsu suggested with a grin.

“Happy?” Lucy repeated, tilting her head. “Why that name?”

Natsu shrugged. “It just seems right, you know? Look at it! It’s all cute and happy and stuff.”

Lucy giggled. “I think it suits him.”

The little cat let out a soft chirp in agreement, as though it understood them perfectly.

Later that night, as the guild members gathered around to hear about the egg hatching, Lucy and Natsu proudly presented their new little companion. Most of the guild members gathered around, curious and excited to meet the new addition.

“Look at that!” Gray exclaimed, his eyes wide. “It’s... a cat?”

“Yup!” Natsu beamed. “We named him Happy. He just hatched out of the egg like this!”

The guild hall filled with laughter and chatter, with everyone crowding around to meet the new little creature. The atmosphere was warm, and for the first time in weeks, there was a sense of joy that filled the air.

Lucy smiled as she watched the little winged cat being passed around, his wings fluttering every now and then. She still wasn’t sure where he had come from or how it was possible for a dragon egg to hatch into a cat, but for the first time in a long while, she felt content. Whatever the future held, she knew that this little creature—this tiny, winged cat—was going to be an important part of their journey.

And maybe, just maybe, he was exactly what they needed.

Chapter Text

The days after the egg hatched were full of excitement. The guild couldn’t stop talking about Happy—the small, winged cat who had emerged from a dragon egg. No one quite understood how it happened, but it didn’t matter. The guild hall was buzzing with the kind of energy only something truly unexpected could bring.

Natsu couldn’t be prouder. He carried Happy around everywhere, showing him off to anyone who would listen. The little cat, now affectionately named Happy, had a carefree attitude that seemed to match Natsu’s own. He’d zip around the guild hall, fluttering his tiny wings, causing a mixture of joy and confusion wherever he went.

Lucy, though still slightly bewildered by the whole situation, couldn’t help but be charmed by the little creature. She’d spent hours watching Happy play, always with a smile on her face. It was strange, but Happy’s presence seemed to fill a gap she hadn’t even realized existed.

One afternoon, as Lucy sat at one of the tables in the guild hall, reading a book she had borrowed from Mira, Happy jumped into her lap and curled up, purring contentedly. She smiled softly, gently stroking his fur.

“Looks like you’ve got a fan,” Gray teased from across the room, his usual sarcastic grin in place.

Lucy laughed, giving him a playful look. “It’s hard not to like him. He’s just... so cute.”

“He’s not bad,” Natsu added, walking over with a grin. “He’s got wings! And he’s already a hit with everyone in the guild!”

Lucy nodded, but then her smile faded slightly. “Still... I can’t help but wonder how something like this even happened. A dragon egg hatching into a cat?”

Makarov, who had been watching the exchange from his seat, chuckled. “In this guild, Lucy, you learn to expect the unexpected. You’ll never truly know what’s around the corner.”

“You really think that’s all there is to it?” Lucy asked, her gaze flicking to Happy, who was now dozing peacefully in her lap.

“I think,” Makarov said thoughtfully, “that there’s a reason Happy came into your lives. Maybe it’s not the kind of adventure you expected, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t important. This is the path you’re on now.”

Lucy blinked, a little taken aback by the elder’s serious tone. She hadn’t really thought about it that way. Her journey had always been about finding her dragon, but now... now there was Happy, a small, winged cat, and she had no idea what his role was in all of this. But she did know one thing.

She felt a sense of responsibility for him. And maybe that was enough for now.

That evening, the guild was particularly lively, with everyone in a good mood. Natsu, of course, was the center of attention, showing Happy off to anyone who would listen. But Lucy found herself deep in thought, trying to make sense of the situation.

She was about to leave the table when she noticed something—Happy wasn’t near Natsu. The tiny cat was instead curled up beside the fireplace, looking strangely still.

“Happy?” Lucy called softly, getting to her feet. “What’s wrong?”

But before she could reach him, the cat stirred, and for a moment, his wings fluttered nervously. Then, without warning, he suddenly hopped up and dashed across the room, his tiny wings flapping desperately. Lucy and Natsu both watched in surprise as Happy zoomed toward the guild’s door, pausing only briefly before darting outside.

“Where’s he going?” Lucy muttered, concern creeping into her voice.

“I don’t know,” Natsu said, eyes wide. “Come on! We’ve gotta follow him!”

The two of them raced outside, their footsteps echoing in the quiet night. Happy was small, but his wings carried him quickly, and he seemed to know exactly where he was going. Natsu and Lucy struggled to keep up with him as he zipped through the guild’s courtyard and out into the night.

The little cat led them to the outskirts of the town, stopping at the base of a tall hill. He paused for just a moment before turning to face them, his big eyes gleaming in the moonlight.

“What’s going on, Happy?” Natsu asked, breathing heavily from the chase. “Why did you bring us out here?”

Happy let out a chirp, then suddenly jumped into the air, his wings flapping with surprising strength for such a tiny creature. He soared higher, climbing up the hill with a determination that seemed beyond his size. Natsu and Lucy exchanged a look before following.

At the top of the hill, Happy landed near an old, crumbling stone structure. It looked like some kind of forgotten temple, overgrown with ivy. The air around it was heavy with silence, and for a moment, Lucy couldn’t shake the feeling that something was different here.

Natsu frowned, walking up to the stone structure. “What is this place?”

Lucy stepped forward cautiously, her heart racing. “It’s... a temple? But it looks so old.”

Happy was already investigating the area, hopping around and sniffing at the stones. He seemed completely at ease, as though he had been here before.

“I don’t get it,” Natsu muttered, scratching his head. “What’s so special about this place?”

As they stood there, unsure of what to do, Happy let out a loud chirp, and to their surprise, a soft glow began to emanate from the cracks in the stones. The glow grew stronger, almost like a pulse, and then—just as suddenly as it began—it stopped.

Lucy took a step back, her brow furrowed. “What was that?”

“I don’t know,” Natsu said, looking around, confused.

But Happy, with his usual carefree attitude, simply walked over to the stone, nudging it with his tiny paws as if he were trying to tell them something.

It was clear that Happy wasn’t just a random, winged cat. There was something more to him, something deeper—and perhaps this strange temple was connected to whatever that was.

Lucy’s mind raced, a sense of urgency creeping in. They had so many unanswered questions about Happy, about dragons, and about the paths that lay ahead.

And something told her that this was just the beginning.

Chapter Text

The cool night air hung heavy around them as they stood at the foot of the old temple. Happy, as usual, seemed to take it all in stride, darting around the ruins with no fear or hesitation. Lucy, however, was still processing everything that had happened in the past few hours—Happy’s sudden escape from the guild hall, leading them out here, and the strange glow from the stone structure. She couldn’t shake the feeling that something important was unfolding, something that would change their lives forever.

Natsu, too, seemed deep in thought, his usual excitement tempered by an unusual sense of quiet. He’d been unusually quiet as they made their way back toward town, but as they neared the familiar streets, his energy returned.

“I’m starving!” he declared suddenly, grinning. “I’m so ready for dinner. Let’s go back and—”

But then, as they reached the edge of town, something caught his eye. There, on the other side of a narrow alleyway, stood an old house. It was small, modest, and it looked like it had been abandoned for a long time. The windows were cracked, and the front door hung slightly ajar, but there was something about it that made Natsu’s eyes light up.

“Lucy,” he said, his voice unusually serious, “look at that.”

Lucy turned to follow his gaze. The house wasn’t anything special, really—just an old building with faded paint and vines creeping up its walls. But something about it seemed to call to Natsu, as though it were a sign.

“That old place?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. “It looks like no one’s lived there in years.”

Natsu’s expression was intense, his usual carefree demeanor replaced with something more determined. “I know! That’s why we should move in there. It’ll be perfect for us!”

Lucy blinked in surprise. “Move in? With you?” she asked, her voice a mixture of confusion and disbelief.

“Yeah! It’s gotta be fate, right?” Natsu’s grin widened. “You, me, Happy... it’ll be our new home. Think about it! We can cook together, train together, and... well, do everything together!” He practically jumped with excitement, his arms flailing as he tried to explain himself.

Lucy stared at him, completely taken aback. The idea of living with Natsu—especially in such a run-down, solitary house—seemed both strange and oddly appealing. There was a comfort in the thought of having a place of their own, away from the bustling guild. But at the same time...

“I don’t know, Natsu,” Lucy hesitated, glancing at the dilapidated house again. “It’s not exactly the kind of place I imagined living in. It’s... falling apart.”

“It’s perfect!” Natsu interrupted, his eyes sparkling. “You said you wanted a place of your own, right? And look! It’s got character! We can fix it up together. Maybe a little paint here, some repairs there... it’ll be great!”

Lucy bit her lip, unsure. The house certainly wasn’t much to look at, but Natsu was right about one thing—it was private. And she had been longing for a place where she could be herself, a place where she didn’t have to worry about the constant noise of the guild or the expectations of everyone around her.

“Just think about it,” Natsu continued, now looking at her with wide, pleading eyes. “You, me, Happy... we could make it our own. It could be our home, Lucy. No more worrying about where we sleep. No more wondering what’s next. We’d have everything we need right here.”

Lucy looked at him for a long moment, her heart softening. Natsu’s earnestness was hard to ignore. She had never seen him so serious about anything before, and for once, it wasn’t about fighting or getting into trouble. It was about something simple—something real.

“Okay,” she said quietly, surprising herself. “We’ll give it a try. But only if we can fix it up first. I’m not living in a place with holes in the walls and broken windows.”

Natsu’s face lit up instantly, his grin spreading from ear to ear. “Deal!” he exclaimed. “We’ll fix it up together! You and me and Happy!”

Lucy couldn’t help but laugh at the excitement on his face. It was infectious. “Fine, but don’t expect me to do all the work. You’re going to help, too.”

“I’ll do everything!” Natsu promised, though he looked a little too eager. “I’m great at fixing things!”

Two Days Later

The house was theirs.

Well, technically, they didn’t own it yet. But after a brief, somewhat chaotic discussion with the local landlord, they had secured a place to stay for a few months while they figured things out. The landlord had been a little wary of renting to two young people with no real plans, but after some convincing (and a bit of Natsu’s charm), they’d signed the agreement.

Lucy stood in the doorway of their new home, hands on her hips, inspecting the place with a critical eye. There were cracks in the walls, and dust covered almost everything. But there was potential. She could see it.

“Alright, this is our new home,” Lucy said, her voice carrying a sense of finality.

“Yep! This is perfect!” Natsu agreed, already racing around the house, flinging open doors and windows as he explored.

Lucy sighed, smiling despite herself. This was the last thing she had expected when she’d joined Fairy Tail, but now that they were here, she realized it wasn’t so bad. There was something oddly comforting about the idea of creating a life here with Natsu, even if it was a little crazy.

Happy, of course, had already found a favorite spot—right in the middle of the living room, curling up in the sunbeam streaming through the broken window. He was already making himself at home.

“Alright, let’s get to work!” Natsu said, popping his head out from behind a pile of old furniture. “We’ve got a lot to fix!”

And so, with a shared look of determination, they got to work. The house might have been a mess, but with their combined energy and newfound sense of purpose, it wouldn’t stay that way for long.

Later that evening, as the sun began to set, Lucy sat down on the worn couch, taking a deep breath. The house was far from perfect, but it was theirs. She glanced over at Natsu, who was sprawled out on the floor, happily munching on a meal he’d somehow managed to cook.

“Not bad,” Lucy said, watching him with a small smile.

“See? Told you I could do it!” Natsu said with his mouth full, a grin plastered across his face. “This is going to be awesome.”

Lucy laughed softly. “It’s definitely... something. But I think it’ll work.”