There was nothing to be said about Laxus’ power and ability to complete anything he set his mind to with little difficulty. From assisting the rebuild efforts of the Guild, to dangerous S-Class jobs: He never broke a sweat. Strong and capable were modifiers to his name and Laxus wore them with pride. Even when he worked for Blue Pegasus. No one, not a soul, could say he wasn’t a good example for wizards through all of Fiore.
Unfortunately, no one knew him like his closest friends. The Thunder Legion saw the cracks others would miss. The poor sense of direction. The socially awkward moments with women and men alike as they fawned and idolized him. Most of all, the one that a certain Rune Mage noticed- was his absolute poor attention to time and schedules.
Did you make a lunch date with him, just for friendly chit chat, two weeks in advance? Forgotten. Mis-timed. Mismanaged. Never on purpose. His organization was questionable at best, often handled by Freed carefully reminding him or Bixlow and Evergreen needling him with jibes and nudges with their elbows. Friendly teasing, but the point never failed to sour his mood, hiding the subtle hint of a blush that blotted the tips of his ears.
Laxus was not a man of schedules. Freed knew this.
Freed knew it and he should have expected it. Planned for it even. Reminded Laxus to check on any recent obligations. Yet, somehow, it reared its ugly head at the worst of times.
The knock on the door came when the two were enjoying time against the black, silky sheets of Laxus’ mattress. “You’re not goin’ anywhere,” He had growled- sending shivers down Freed’s spine as he attempted to dress for the day. Clothes never made it on his body. Half worn pants were cast aside and stubborn hands pulled him down to drown within the blankets.
Freed hadn’t resisted. Grasping Laxus’ broad shoulders to hold him on the bed, they played a riveting game of dominance with the other. Cat and mouse. Who would win? Who would give in? Many times, it ended with Freed overcome by Laxus’ heated, open mouthed kisses along his neck and collar bone- hands grasping his hips as they sent each other to bliss. Other times, it was Freed who came out on top- far more lithe and easier to slip away when he wanted. Teasing Laxus with hands and mouth only to pull away before he could topple over the edge. Over and over until they both finally sated themselves with the other.
That morning was Freed’s turn. A sneaky smirk was Laxus’ only warning before he’d escaped the bedsheets and with surprising force, rolled Laxus to his back, straddling his hips in one fell swoop. His green locks draped down his shoulders in a messy curtain as he teased his pelvis against Laxus. A building pressure through the fabric of their boxers that left Laxus panting and snarling through his teeth.
“Since I’m not leaving,” Freed purred, stare piercing though thick lashes, “I may as well make the best of it.”
The immediate reaction was Laxus’ hardening cock, bulging through the fabric of his boxers. It empowered Freed. His hips rolled and the teasing continued as Laxus grasped his hips. He bared his teeth- impatience burning beneath his skin. “Damnit, Freed, this ain’t what I had in mind when I said that!!”
“But it IS what I had in mind.” Freed said, grinning wickedly.
His hand snuck between their bodies, grasping Laxus’ thick organ through the slit in his boxers, pulling it through to tease it between his thighs and fingers, but he didn’t deny Laxus too much. Freed’s own need for touch dried his mouth and he fell forward, groaning, eagerly sliding his lips against the others to trade their need in a way that didn’t require verbal communication.
Tongues pushed against the other and lips sucked and pulled. Their breathing intermingled in hot pants while logic and thought was replaced by the intense desire to taste and fulfill the others growing needs. Freed’s hand never ceased in it’s exploration. He pumped along the length of Laxus’ shaft in swift, shallow strokes before teasing the base. Each, jolting move and change of speed pulled more delicious grunts from his lover’s lips. Freed loved these moments. He loved the power he could hold over another, impossibly strong man, but most of all, he loved-
The knock slammed through them like a nail splintering wood. They froze, eyes wide. It came again seconds later. It rapped so loud, it sent echoes down the hall and the walls vibrated. Freed’s grip remained against Laxus’ turgid, far from flaccid length and loosened while he stared at the other. His face changed from sexual heat to a slowly rising and panicked embarrassment.
Laxus stared back, equally befuddled.
Another knock. “Laxus?”
“…. err.. Yeah?” It came again.
“…. did you forget something?”
His brows knitted together and he frowned, “do you really think I’m THAT bad?”
Freed opened his mouth to deny the accusation, but was interrupted by a knock so loud he jumped in place. “I’m inclined to… well- question that right now.”
Another loud, booming knock and Laxus growled, “Just ignore it then. Whoever it is, they’ll get the hint and leave.”
As if the world was bent on proving him wrong, they reacted on reflex when an entirely different sound came from the entrance. The telltale sound of squeaking hinges and a door slamming open as it bounced against the wall. Many things happened at once. Freed tumbled off Laxus in a flurry of limbs, sheets and cascading hair and Laxus sat up, snarling at the door as if prepared to maim whoever dared break into his home.
“Laxus?” The familiar, wizened voice of Makarov broke through the house, tentative and curious, “are you still sleeping?”
The revelation of what was happening came quick to both of them. Freed whirled upon his partner, startled. “The Master?! Does he often come here uninvited?!”
Laxus stared as he collected his thoughts. After a few seconds he shook his head, “The old man is nosey but he aint that ba-” a pause and realization struck like a bag of bricks, “- shit.”
“What? Shit what?” Freed hissed, his voice now a low and hurried whisper.
Laxus ears were burning as he palmed his face. “We were s’posed to have brunch.”
“You mean to tell me you really forgo-!”
Footsteps were coming to the door and Freed’s mouth shut. They hadn’t revealed their relationship to him. Not yet. For many reasons, they just weren’t ready to take that step and here they were, about to be discovered with their pants down. Obvious tension on erect display.
“I can hear you scuffling around in there, Laxus! Why are you ignoring me?” He was coming closer. Close enough that all thoughts between the two fled through the window and instinct took hold. Grabbing the blankets, Laxus quickly covered his lower half and angled himself to hide the evidence.
Falling into flight mode, Freed made for the nearest escape: the closet. The door clicked shut just in time for Makarov to stroll through the main door, mustache twitching while his nose scrunched at the scene.
Laxus’ expression was dour, staring at the door as he affected nonchalance and apathy. The two stared from one to the other for seconds, but for the man in the closet, it felt like an eternity of silence. When it seemed the two Dreyar’s would only continue to study each other, Laxus inhaled to speak.
Makarov was quicker. “We planned brunch today.” It was a statement that fell between them like a sack of cement. Laxus resisted the urge to grimace, knowing Freed would use it against him later. Instead, he screwed his expression into a frown and grumbled.
“I don’t remember that meaning you get to walk in whenever you want, old man.” He said with a growl that rumbled in his low baritone. It was meant as a warning, a reproach. One that was ignored.
“You gave me a key.” Makarov reminded, shrugging. “I worried you might be sick or something. Is there a reason you didn’t show up?”
“Tch, well- it wasn’t ‘cause I forgot. I didn’t.”
“Really?”
“Yes.”
The look on Makarov’s face was nothing short of dubious. Though short in stature, his presence felt like a mirror to his giant magic and after another pause, Laxus looked away. Stubborn pride dusted his cheeks as he spoke under his breath.
“What was that?”
“Ugh, you’re too nosy!” Laxus said., eyes sparing a glance to his closet before he added, “I just didn’t have any clean clothes.”
The room was silent. Makarov looked to Laxus and Laxus looked to Makarov. The expression on their faces spoke volumes.
Makarov’s nose twitched, rustling his mustache as his eyes surveyed the room, as if attempting to calculate the accuracy of Laxus’ words. “No clean clothes?”
His tone was hollow in it’s reiteration and Laxus pulled the best expression of indifference he could muster. “Yeah that’s right. Your hearing isn’t going out is it, old man?”
“You’re serious? This is the hill you’re standing on, Laxus?”
His eye twitched as he cleared his throat. “You saying I’m lying? About clothes? Really.”
“All right…” While in the closet, Freed couldn’t see their expressions, but his own was hidden in his palm. Makarov sounded disbelieving, amused even while Laxus… Good grief, aren’t you a better liar than that? He thought. His body stiffened amidst the thick coats and shirts that hung beside him, realizing belatedly that Makarov had begun to move.
Soft steps through the room, becoming louder and louder as he approached the closet. Freed covered his mouth to mute his own breathing and further attempted to hide himself amidst the mixed fabrics.
“What,” Laxus sat up, almost dropped the blanket from his hips, and quickly readjusted, “What are you doing?”
“I’m looking for clean clothes.” Makarov stated as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “I never imagined you for a slob, and if the nearby hamper is empty, then I can only assume they’re in the wash or-”
His hand grasped the closet knob, “stuffed inside your closet.”
“It’s not like I’m going to step all over my clothes,” Laxus defended, “so what if they’re in there? My closet is none of your business, anyway.”
“True, but -” And Makarov’s gaze slid mischievously back towards his grandson, eyes gleaming, “if that was all, then why look so nervous, Laxus?”
He had no chance to answer as Makarov turned the knob and flung the doors open. No clothes slid out. No obvious piles of dirty, unwashed pants or boxers littered the ground. There was just a mass of shirts, fur-lined coats and shelves housing boots, socks and other unmentionables. All the things one would assume to be in a closet and one extra Freed, partially stuffed behind the thickest coat he could find, but the green of his hair stood out like a sore thumb.
“Uhm-” He began, only to fall silent when Makarov grabbed the coat and slid it in front of his face as if he hadn’t noticed a man hiding in his grandson’s clothes. He sifted from shirt to coat, from coat to shirt, hemmed and hawed away as he chuckled.
“Now, would you look at this!” He exclaimed, “Not a single dirty item in sight! I see you have plenty of options, m’boy. Shirts, pants,” And he opened one of the shelves to find the carefully folded pants that looked far too tidy to have been done by Laxus alone, “Socks and briefs- in fact, they look freshly washed even. Are you sure you’re not wanting to admit to forgetting you had plans with me?”
Laxus balked, “That’s- look, I didn’t forget a damn thing, now would you get out of there-”
He continued sifting, grasping the first coat to bring it out once more, revealing Freed’s flustered, but now scraggly hair falling before his face. “Oh! Hello Freed, I hope you’ve had a good morning, at least.”
The coat moved before him yet again and Makarov shut the door, looking unperturbed, but highly amused. The telltale sputters of Freed’s confusion echoed from the closet as he struggled to move out from the mass of clothes Makarov had flung against him and the Fairy Tail Guild Master raised a brow towards Laxus. The silent point hung in the air.
Laxus managed to look guilty in that moment as he scratched the back of his head sheepishly, “Yeah, fine, so I forgot. You happy?”
Makarov smiled, “Was that so hard?” Laxus rumbled his response, his patience running thin. He waved a hand to back off and turned to exit the way he’d come. “No need to answer. How about we reschedule for tomorrow, then?”
Quite put out, Laxus grunted, “Fine.”
“Excellent!” He paused at the door, looking back as he chuckled, resembling a cat that had caught a canary, “Oh and Laxus?”
“What?”
“Bring Freed would you? I’m sure your boyfriend would appreciate a meal too.”
The door shut and Laxus gaped.
Both Freed and Laxus held their breaths. One still naked in his bed, the other still traversing the closet as he clamored out through the door. Makarov’s footsteps echoed down the hall, to the front doors, and much like his entrance, he left without another word.
Head peeking from the closet door, Freed looked to Laxus, but Laxus wasn’t looking at Freed.
“…. when did you tell him?” He asked, under the impression their relationship had been a tight-lipped secret from everyone but the two currently in the room together. Laxus, ears brimming with a redness Freed relished despite the situation, finally met his gaze and shrugged.
“I didn’t.” He said., “but are you coming to breakfast tomorrow or not?”
The implication was clear. Unspoken, but understood. Coming with meant admitting to what Makarov obviously knew. To be comfortable in the fact and allowing others to see what was between them. A thrill ran down Freed’s spine as he smiled.
“I’d love to.”
Bonus Scene - A convo During Breakfast
“Were you SPYING on us or something?” The question was pointed and Makarov’s lips twitched in his attempt to hide his grin.
“Well now,” He drank from his mug, gulping down the substance without a care towards Laxus’ accusing stare. Makarov’s smirk over the rim was devious, “did you really think I wouldn’t notice?”
Freed and Laxus looked towards each other and shrugged, “That was the point in keeping it quiet.”
Makarov couldn’t hold it. He burst into laughter and slammed the mug down, “How would I NOT know after what you two did on the upstairs floor? I might be old, but I’m not oblivious!”
A Realization From Icecream - Commission for Gytech
Moved over from @rougescribe
Series: Yu Yu Hakusho
Pairing: KuramaxBotan
Genre: Romantic/Comedy/Fluff
Commission for: @gytech
-
She was all nerves and no way to expel them. Fingers twitched, drumming long the oar she used for transportation; a tippy-tap staccato that only served to increase her heart rate, rather than slow it. Was this really the way a human date was supposed to go? A part of her knew, from countless research and countless times watching the humans from behind their senses, that it was quite unorthodox. Then again, a Spirit Guide going on a date with a Demon inside a human boy fits that bill rather nicely.
Men usually came to pick up their dates, but she was going to meet him. Usually both people knew where they were going, not this time. She was completely in the dark and so- prepared an outfit that was casual, but still decently cute. At least, she hoped. Her current state of dress was still the Pink Kimono she wore for each day of her job: a uniform practically- but the moment she changed forms to a humanoid appearance, her true outfit of choice would be known.
Would it even matter to a man like Kurama; a Fox Thief of Legend? Her nerves were really starting to get the best of her.
“Don’t be silly,” She said to herself, eyes glancing this way and that, “He can be the perfect gentleman when he wants to be, I have no reason to worry!”
None, not a single bit of this situation should worry her- and yet here she was with sweaty palms and a racing heart beat so fast she feared it might fly straight out of her chest! How did Keiko manage this when she finally had a proper date out of Yusuke? She may have been a Guide to the Spirit World, but Botan was starting to seriously question her own life decisions. Botan couldn’t help, but wonder if agreeing to this venture was even worth it.
After all, she was a Guide to lost Spirits, unable to be seen by regular humans unless she willed it to be so. And he… a Demon Fox merged into the body of a human, growing with a loving family. Would a date even work? She fretted as the wind blew her hair back, drowning all sounds through her ears and the fretting continued until she made it to her destination. In Botan’s opinion, she arrived far too quickly.
“Goodness,” She exclaimed, landing behind a tree to check the small watch she kept on her when in the human world, “Did I come too early?” The park was quiet with only the distant sounds of cars humming in the background and her own anxiety flared into her lungs like a vice. It almost made it hard to breathe.
Kurama was nowhere in sight.
“Oh dear… or perhaps,” She muttered, fingers twiddling together, “I got the day wrong?” Naturally she wouldn’t expect him to stand her up, not on purpose. He was certainly more poignant and upfront then that! “Oh, silly Botan, I must have got the time wrong, yes that’s it! Maybe I should fly by later and just tell him I messed it up and will be working at the actual time, I’m sure he’d understand! Yes,” A snap of the fingers and she smiled- it didn’t reach her eyes, “That’s exactly what I’ll do-”
“Botan?”
Arms flailed in the air and she yelped, jumping about a foot as she re-balanced herself, blue hair whisking about as she looked around for the source of his voice. So he WAS here! “Ah- ahahah, Oh, Kurama! I hadn’t seen you-”
In fact, she still didn’t see him, and confusion shone in her eyes right until he cleared his throat and stepped out from behind a nearby tree. Amusement quirked his lips and his emerald eyes gleamed as he watched her. “Apologies, but you seem to have missed me by just one tree.”
Oh. Well. One would think she would have sensed his energy. Why hadn’t- “Were you, uhm, hiding?” she questioned, laughing nervously as her form quickly shifted to that of one humans could see. The Kimono shifted to a casual pair of pants and button up shirt.
“Observing.” He corrected, the small smile never left his face. “I got here a little early and while I could have greeted you, I thought it would look a little strange to be speaking to air before you made yourself visible.”
“That.. oh! Right, that makes perfect sense. Yes, definitely!” She was rambling. She knew it. - but for a man like him, ensuring his normalcy to the general populace was what helped him blend in. Of course he’d have to wait for her to be seen by others! “Well then, “ Botan paused, lips thinning out as she realized one very important detail.
What now?
She was at a loss. All the times she had read through Keiko’s diary, watched Kuwabara fumble with Yukina, stayed up late with Shizuru watching horrid romance movies (she swore wasn’t because she actually liked them, but Botan knew better) - and now she was stuck! How did humans do it again? Kurama was the gallant savior she hoped he would be, laughing lightly and extending an arm, causing her heart to skip: just a little bit. She took it and before she knew it, they were off: walking through the trails of the park.
To say Botan was nervous would be an understatement, but Kurama smoothly walked alongside her as if nothing could bother him. Which was normal for the former, legendary thief, but it still managed to raise Botan’s anxiety even higher. He was just so difficult to read! Was he happy to see her? Did she look nice? Was he merely humoring her? On and on the questions flew through her head, but she couldn’t figure which one to reach the air between them. Was it rude to ask, she wondered?
Botan truly was inexperienced with this sort of thing and it showed. How long had it been since she’d considered romance in her long career working in Spirit World? Other Reapers spoke of it from time to time, mostly with other reapers… Or the rare time she could have sworn she saw Ayame and Koenma having dinner just a few months ba-
“Is everything all right?” Kurama’s pointed question made Botan almost swallow her own tongue, choking on her thoughts as she jumped. Oh dear, she was so lost in her own thoughts, she’d forgotten she was currently arm in arm with a gorgeous, red haired Fox that happened to be fifty times smarter than she was!
Of course he’d notice something was wrong. “Oh, no- I’m fine!” She lied. She knew it. She knew he knew it. Too late now. Laughing, she scratched the back of her head, subconsciously tightening her hold against his arm.
His eyes narrowed, a beautiful green that Botan often admired, but couldn’t at that moment as she recognized the expression he was giving her. “You don’t have to lie to me.” He chided, voice gentle, but it made her deflate. She was making a mess of things wasn’t she? “Did you not want to come?”
Straight to the point, as usual. Botan should have known Kurama wasn’t the type to be subtle over these sorts of things. Maybe he understood communication was important. Or maybe he was trying while she was…. Thinking far too much again. Sighing, Botan shook her head, patting his arm with a silent apology. “It’s nothing like that, Kurama, I’m just- … well, Guide of the Spirit don’t often go out on dates. I’m a little out of my element here.”
“Ah…” His expression softened, lips quirking into a grin, “If it helps, I’ve not dated before either.”
Well, that- somehow surprised her. “You don’t have to make up things for my pride,” She pouted, eyeing him through the fringe of her bangs, “Surely as Yoko you had plenty of Demon Ladies at your feet?”
“Perhaps-” Hah, got him! Except his expression looked solemn, regretful even. “Though I feel they regretted their fancy. I had other things to worry about than satisfying the idle fantasies of a demon woman hoping for a strong partner to boast over.”
Oh- well- that … that made sense. Kurama’s shoulders tensed, jaw frozen as if he were resisting the urge to grit his teeth. Botan gnawed her lip, worried she’d gone a bit too far, bringing up his past like that. Then again, his expression reverted back to calm and relaxed as he turned her down a little path, walking the perimeter of the park.
Which is when she noticed the small Ice Cream Stall, right at the entrance- and her eyes lit up instantly. “That is just PERFECT! Let’s get a few scoops!” It was just what they needed to clear the air and perhaps add a little more to their date! She was certainly a genius-
Except the soft chuckle and indulgent smile that met her eye caused Botan’s heart to pitter-patter all over again. She realized he’d planned this from the beginning. Of course he had. Rather than feel disappointed, the fast pace of her heart only increased as her face warmed. Like most things in Kurama’s life, he was thinking steps and steps ahead of everyone around him. It made the Reaper wonder if it were even possible to surprise him. She was no match for him on a good day, and it seemed a date was no different.
“What flavor would you like?” His question pulled her from the depths of her overthinking mind and Botan chuckled, bringing herself back to reality in order to enjoy the moment as it were. It was strange to have so many doubts riddling her mind. Was it normal when on your first date? She made a mental note to ask Keiko or even Shizuru about it later and quickly made her selection while they got in line.
It was a quick wait. While Kurama ordered himself a simple Vanilla cone, Botan gave in to her sweet tooth, ordering a strawberry, chocolate and vanilla cone - her three scoops looking delectable in the warm weather.
“I didn’t stop to wonder if you even like ice cream,” Botan stated, realizing why Kurama kept his order light. “We didn’t have to get this you know.” Still, she enjoyed the sweet taste as it melted on her tongue and cringed when the chill shot through the top of her head.
Brain freeze.
“I don’t mind.” Kurama answered, leaning over to swipe a bit of of the substance from the corner of her mouth- Botan’s cheeks turned a brilliant red in an instant- heart stuttering from the proximity. Licking it from his finger, she wondered why a man like him wouldn’t have bothered with a napkin, but hint of a smile gave her all the answers she needed. “- I want you to enjoy yourself after all. I already am, and you’ve been stiff ever since you arrived.”
Botan didn’t even have time to be embarrassed over his actions, face growing all the more heated at his implications. “H-have I? Oh dear…!” She certainly hadn’t meant to give that implication, did she seem ungrateful? “It’s not that I’m having a bad time, I’m really not- I mean, I am- no that’s… “
Argh, she was twisting all her words with her own blasted tongue! Kurama’s brows lifted, puzzled, but the amusement hadn’t left him. That was a good sign. Stomping her foot in consternation of her own blabbermouth, she flung her arm out for more emphasis. “That is NOT what I meant. I’m trying to say that I’m just nervous, but you have been a perfect gentleman- eh-?”
Botan had forgotten about the cone of ice cream in her hand when she postulated, gaze turning to horror as she processed what her action had just caused. Kurama had frozen- rather like the cold substance that now stuck to the front of his shirt, staring downward: grimacing.
Just bury her now and call it good. Botan’s arms flailed, releasing the cone so it dropped to the ground, slowly melting to feed the grass beneath them. “Oh my god- I didn’t- that was completely my fault, I am SO SORRY! I am making such a mess of things, uh, h-here- lets get you some napkins!”
She’d darted back towards the stand, mind whirling so fast, she hadn’t even noticed Kurama’s attempts to stop her- hand raised mid-air as he stared after. When she returned, an abundance of tissues were in her hand, more than needed - but she wanted to be sure! To Botan’s horror, however, Kurama had already begun removing his buttoned up, revealing a tighter undershirt beneath that she hadn’t expected.
Don’t look at his muscles, don’t look at his, don’t look- ahh!
If she could glow any brighter she would have.
I looked! Botan, get a grip, silly girl- you just STAINED his shirt!
“You didn’t have to do that!” She frantically shouted, grabbing the jacket from him in her attempts to wipe the melting substance off the fabric. It wouldn’t stain, would it? Did ice cream do that? “See, look- all better- now we can put this back on you so you don’t have to- to- “
Kurama’s chuckles, hidden behind a hand as he bit his thumb, interrupted Botan and she looked from the shirt - still sticky but safe from further damage - and back to him. Had she missed something? The wind blew a mighty gust behind them flapping hers and his hair in all directions and soon, Botan was laughing with him. Though she still didn’t get his humor, her own had kicked in from her nervous actions. The situation striking her as something that of course would happen to her of all people.
This was ridiculous. What was she doing? Kurama wouldn’t be upset over a shirt- goodness he probably had his own ways to clean stains that no amount of napkin could compare! “I am.. Such a mess,” She rasped between giggles, eyes blurring from mirthful tears, “I wouldn’t even blame you for regretting coming out to see me today!”
Honestly, who wouldn’t regret at this point? “I’m not regretting anything.” Yes, exactly, just chalk up asking her out on a date as a moment of insanity caused by… whatever plants he grew in his garden and call it good-
What, what? “Huh?” Botan’s jaw grew slack and her lack of articulation seemed to make Kurama’s mirth boil over. Still chuckling, he grabbed the stained jacket to place over his shoulder and handed her what was left of his vanilla cone, urging her to finish it.
“Here- to replace your lost one.”
“Oh- well, thank you-” Botan said lamely, grabbing the cone on autopilot as she blinked. Goodness, she was confused. Licking the vanilla quietly, she frowned, unsure of Kurama’s meaning, but also feeling an awkward tension settle in the air. Maybe this really had been a mistake? She didn’t much like the thought of it that. So many times she had felt something for the man in front of her and despite her concerns, the day he’d asked her to join him had been one of the happiest she’d had in a long time.
So why did she feel as if she’d missed a step in the dark and screwed something up? Sighing, Botan continued to eat the cone in front of her, barely realizing when Kurama gently ushered her to a bench, hand softly supporting her at the elbow before he sat beside her. The silence reigned for only a few minutes, but it felt like hours.
Kurama cleared his throat, reaching out to tuck a strand of blue hair behind Botan’s ear. “Perhaps I’m not as good at this as I hoped I would be,” He began, smiling softly. “- but I don’t regret a single moment of it. I can fix the jacket, it’s not an issue. However…” And Botan felt her heart stop cold when a dark glint flickered in the depths of his eyes, “I also don’t like feeling as if you’re forcing yourself to be here.”
Oh- so that…. “You mean you-”
“Are you-” He interrupted, “forcing yourself?”
“No!” Botan exclaimed, her tone adamant as she straightened on the spot, eyes narrowing at him. “Don’t you misunderstand me, mister! I know you’re amazing at what you do, but I wouldn’t have come here if I wasn’t interested and you of all people should know that!” She was getting into her rant now, free hand moving to poke him square on the chest, bottom lip protruding as she pouted. “And another thing! If you weren’t so hard to read, maybe I wouldn’t be so nervous! I keep thinking I’m ruining everything, or bothering you or that you’re simply seeing this as just two friends spending time together rather than-”
She never finished her sentence as smooth fingers moved to cup her chin, tilting it just so for soft lips to grace her own. It wasn’t a deep kiss full of passion, but it left a pleasant tingle crawling down her spine as it spread through her fingers and toes. Kurama didn’t press for more than a chaste brushing of lips, but it effectively silence her. With another soft peck, he pulled back, eyes glittering.
“Apologies,” He murmured, soft smile returning, “I never meant to worry you, but- and allow me to turn this on you- but do you honestly think I’d request a date from you if I was only going to see it as friends later? Do I seem the type?”
She didn’t have a reply, too stunned to speak, mind halted and in the air with no ground to stand on. He quickly brushed her bangs from her eyes, fluffing the fringe before grasping her hand to bring the ice cream back to her lips. Botan mechanically moved to save her hand from getting melted cream on her fingers, refusing to look at the redhead as she calmed her beating heart. A kiss. Her first kiss with Kurama- a man she had been quietly crushing on for what felt like years. It had been unexpected and her stomach was in knots.
She didn’t hate it.
“I’ll ask next time.” Kurama said calmly, still smiling. “Sorry for not doing so this time, but I felt the point needed to be made. Are you upset?”
“N-no, I.. I wouldn’t say that-” She stammered, finally finishing most of the ice cream and moving on to nibble at the cone. This was certainly turning into a date that far exceeded her expectations. “In fact, if you wanted to do it again- I doubt I’d stop you.”
He chuckled again, arm moving to drape across her shoulder as he relaxed against the bench, voice coming out in a low hum. Botan tensed for only a moment, before relaxing into the hold, ecstatic smile spreading across her face beyond her control.
“I’ll surprise you then.” He teased against her ear, pulling her hand towards him to bite the cone as well. “Or … you can surprise me.”
All worries fell off her in an instant and Botan decided then that there was nothing more she need worry about. Except hours later, when she almost fell off her oar, face aflame at the realization.
Eating off his ice cream was an indirect kiss, wasn’t it?!?!
Moved over from @rougescribe
Series: Fairy Tail Crossover with Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Pairing: NatsuxLevy
Genre: Crossover/Adventure/Fluff
Commission for: @gytech
@fairytail-rarepairs
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Sweat dripped from Levy Mcgarden’s temples as she made, yet another attempt to climb herself down the deep crevasse known as Tanagar Canyon. It was so deep that the researcher-turned-small-Adventurer almost feared she wouldn’t make it. Why didn’t she think to try and use her hang glider? The contraption stayed safely folded against her back, taunting her. While her fingers, covered in old climbing gloves and aching, found a ledge wide enough to rest her feet and sighed.
Just as she considered resting for longer than a few minutes, her reason for stubbornly refusing the glider came scrabbling down the cliff beside her: grunting and moving with practiced ease.
Her pink-haired, exuberant companion didn’t even seem out of breath as he situated himself next to her. Dark eyes turned to meet her worn out ones, lips tilting into a wide, almost arrogant grin. “C’mon, there’s no time to take breaks, Lev!”
“Uhm,” She mumbled,”It’s Levy,” though she knew it was useless. He hadn’t stopped calling her that since they’d met. “And I was only resting my feet for a short bit.”
“Well it’s a little late to use that glider thingy now- why didn’t ya’ do it earlier?” The puzzled tone in his voice caused her face to flush and she glanced away in embarrassment. Did he HAVE to rub it in?
“I’m fine!” She found herself saying, “W-who said I was regretting that?”
It was obvious that she was, but she wasn’t about to admit it when he was giving her that look, grinning widely and flexing his own muscles to show off. She’d seen ENOUGH proof of his strength and skills on their trip; watching him jump down to the next ledge without even a care in the world just rubbed salt in her wounded pride.
Levy knew the reason she had refused the glider in the first place. Not from a true sense of stubborn pride (she knew her physical strengths were not suited to this sort of thing.), instead, it was out of a sense that she KNEW she’d make it to the bottom before he did in. (As he had no glider for himself.) Where would that leave her if there were monsters at the bottom ready to attack?
She wasn’t defenseless, but even she realized her luck could only run so far. Thus she had chosen the long way down, intent to fight the aching muscles and need for rest while the unkind winds fought to knock her off the cliff face. By the time they’d reach the bottom, she just KNEW she’d need a good sleep before they continued on. Her protector could handle clearing the area for a camp, of that she was certain- but how sore would her muscles be by morning?
This venture was turning out to be one of those escapades that possibly required a month just to recuperate from. (And it had already taken near a month to travel here. The Akalla region was many days from the Hebra Mountains after all.)
If her own need to see if the rumors of a Forgotten Temple were, indeed, true, hadn’t been so strong, she may have refused to even come. Alas, that had not been the case.
“Oi! Lev, hurry up or I’m gonna leave ya’ behind!”
The Hylian’s voice thrust her from her reverie, blinking in astonishment to see just how much further he’d gone since he’d last spoke. Goodness, that was near fifty feet! How did he move so fast? After her brown eyes noticed the sheer DEPTH of the Canyon once more, Levy had to shake off a wave of dizziness and gulped.
“I’m.. I’m coming!” She managed to shout out towards him, unaware if he’d hear her over the cacophony of wind or not. Either way, he’d see her resuming her struggles to leave the ledge, grasping the rock face and slowly making her way down once more.
“-and it’s Levy!” She couldn’t help but add.
If someone had told her she’d be in this position a month ago, she wouldn’t have believed them. The Akkala Tech Lab was where she often spent her time, helping the old Shiekah Robbie and his wife research Ancient technology. Gathering ancient materials from broken down Guardians all across Hyrule had been one of her jobs, often times traveling between Akkala and Hateno just to visit with both tech labs. The researchers for both labs were, if nothing else, her idols when it came to studying and creation, wanting to learn the mysteries of the world just as much as they. (Except, it had been quite some time since she’d seen the Hateno tech- for some reason the woman had been refusing to see other researchers lately.)
Being raised by the Sheikah herself, Levy felt it her duty to help them in any way that she possibly could, even if her own travels took her far from the lab for many months. And yet… something still felt.. As if it was missing. Robbie had his wife and son to help with their research, as well as his machine Cherry to keep him company. Even Purah from Hateno had her own assistant. So then… where did that leave her?
She was Levy. A Sheikah assistant by name only- adopted into the Sheikah line, but not truly of the blood. And with no true home to call her own, traveling and studying the world was what she did best. In a way, it was how she hoped to finally come into contact with SOMETHING that could hint to her lost family.
Her interest in the Guardians of the World far greater than her need to learn about her past. She hadn’t been alive during the War that destroyed the Hyrule Kingdom one hundred years ago, but even she knew the importance to prepare for the future. Peace was… fleeting. Not when beasts, monsters and even the old ruins of the castle were still full of malice.
No… the calm that many of the people in this world felt… was merely a break before a new storm.
Meeting someone new (and absolutely crazy) had not been quite what she expected.
His name was Natsu Dragneel, and she honestly couldn’t tell if he had made up that last name on his own or not. He was a traveler, treasure hunter- and the day they had met had been days after a strange occurrence began across the entire Kingdom. High towers had sprung from the ground, glowing brightly and scattered in every region she had come across. Not only that, but the old ancient shrines that also littered the world had begun to glow in an eerie, orange light.
Levy had never heard of the old temples reacting in such a way. In fact, no one had found even the smallest hint to an entrance for centuries. Were the sudden activation of these towers somehow connected? Oh how her curious mind wanted to know! - but first, she had to transport her latest materials to the lab.
Which was when she’d come across h i m.
Riding her adorable Calli (A horse she had managed to tame herself!) - Levy was considering the option of circling the hill to the old Lighthouse where the lab resided or face the possible danger of a stationary guardian. Her decision was interrupted when she caught the sound of battle instead. Wounded shouting, a frightened neighing from another horse and anxiety shot through Levy’s spine. Was someone else being attacked by the mechanical monstrosity?
Levy didn’t want to see another person (or horse) be killed by the creature that blocked the path to the Lab. Not again! It was just her luck to have an Ancient Bow and Arrows packed away. (Weapons Robbie had made for her.) Only a few of the arrows remained unfortunately-… and her aim?
It wasn’t terrible, but she certainly wasn’t the BEST of shots in Hyrule. Shushing her own horse, the small researcher slid from the saddle, unwilling to put her in harm’s way. Swiping her azure hair from her eyes, Levy rushed on. She snuck along the nearby boulders to keep herself from becoming a target herself.
What she saw was both.. Heartbreaking, as well as puzzling. Not only had a horse been shot down by the strange, statue-like guardian, whose bright, red, searching eye was preparing another blast, but its rider was prone. Pinned to the ground by a previous shockwave.
Could he get up in time? She hadn’t a second to react or consider it, withdrawing an arrow to knock it as she quickly moved atop her hiding place. The guardian’s focus was on the fellow and she truly didn’t understand just how sentient it could be. However, with the way he was not moving, she hoped she could provide the machine with a livelier shot.
“H-hey, look over here!” She shouted, voice barely loud as apprehension gripped her. Shoot, definitely not loud enough! Retrieving a pebble in her free hand, she followed her own words with a toss, sailing the tiny rock straight towards the Guardian with enough for to strike it against the metallic side.
She could hear the clunk as it landed, not even causing a dent, but giving her the reaction she had hoped. Swiveling its towering head to face her, she felt the red laser and light focus upon her form and in that instant, she wondered just WHY she had put herself in danger.
Instinct screamed at her to run, but there was still that traveler in harm’s way- fear pumped blood through her pointed ears and she barely heard when the man shouted towards her. In fact, she didn’t even recognize what words he could have said. No, she couldn’t focus on that, after all- re-knocking her arrow, slightly off balance from the strange size of it, she quickly aimed it at the giant red eye.
It was frightening, feeling it’s gaze upon her- she could even hear the ticking and clicking as it prepared its blast. Most could never damage such a thing. And others had legs to walk around- it was the wisest option to run and hide when a Guardian had you in its sights. And yet here she was, having a stare down with this stationary creation, legs shaking as she struggled to make her aim just right.
Levy knew if she missed- the Guardian would shoot her down: and there would be no way her small body could survive the blast. “Focus. Focus Levy. You can do this- …!!”
Exhaling, she narrowed her eyes. Though fear almost blinded her, she tried to block out all other sounds, all other thoughts. The clicking stopped and with a hopeful shout, she released her arrow.
The following blast of blue light that followed as Robbie’s weapon - created solely to defeat these machines - cut through the air. It made Levy’s heart stutter- the blast was a good sign, but had she hit that giant red eye? Legs were practically jelly as she slid to her knees on the boulder. - but no returning blast from the Guardian followed to strike her down.
Instead, the whirring and clicking grew louder, the red light grew brighter before dimming and broken glass sounded as the arrow struck its mark. Striking through the Guardian’s one weak point and rushing through its inner domes. Another flash of light, and smoke- and the dangerous creation cracked into pieces.
With a shuddering breath, she gripped her bow with ash white knuckles, shaking from head to two while the dust settled. She’d done it. She’d managed to strike it down. “Oh thank the Goddess…” she mumbled- exhaustion from the sheer emotions draining her of what little energy she had..
“Hey! You!” That is.. Until a voice, frantic and loud, rang into the air. Brown eyes shot open and she turned her gaze back towards the road just in time to see a limping, pink-haired Hylian hobbling his way towards her as fast as he could.
And.. hold on a minute, was he glaring at her?
“Uhm, I- .. are you okay-?” She barely managed to stutter out the question before he was at the base of the boulder, grunting as he hopped up to meet her, never minding the hiss of pain that followed as he dribbled blood onto the ground below. “Wait, what are you doing- you’re wounded!”
The hylian didn’t seem to listen, his own pointed ears peeking through the pink of his hair, tanned skin looking quite healthy despite his wounds. Advancing on her, she recoiled on instinct as he leaned over her, scowl still firmly in place. Was.. was he mad? He didn’t WANT to get killed, did he?!
“…… how in th’hell did ya’ kill it with an arrow? That was AMAZING!” She blinked, confusion and relief rushing through her as she blinked at this boy. So.. why had he been glaring then? Jaw grew slack as she tried to muster up an answer, but he continued before she could even get her bearings straight.
“Seriously, I’ve never seen that sorta thing before. You were great! Me an’ Happy would have been toast if not for you!”
Happy-? .. Did.. he mean.. His horse? Well… that was an interesting name to give, but she finally managed to smile at him tepidly. “Oh well, thanks, but it was… erm, well, luck, actually.”
A one-shot hit like that, Levy knew she’d never pull off again, not without tons more practice at least. Still, it was nice to hear such compliments, even as his own excitement seemed to slowly drain away as his own wound finally caught up with him.
“Tch, luck or not, it was still - urk- “ Losing balance, he began to slip and fall, which from the height of the boulder she had crawled upon, that was just asking for him to get a concussion (or worse) - hands reflexively shot out, gripping the scarf he wore around his neck in an attempt to pull him back to safety.
Unfortunately, that resulted in him falling forward instead, pinning her to the rock with a heavy thud. Her squeaks of protest and surprise echoed through the sky.
How she managed to get them both off that boulder and back to the tech lab was beyond her. In fact, she wasn’t even sure how she lead both their horses either. Still, she had managed it- with Robbie’s help, once the older Sheikah had noticed her struggling up the hill. Small drops of blood stained her tunic- but the travelers had been worse.
Not fatal, luckily. She was even relieved to hear that Happy (she still couldn’t believe someone would name a horse that) wasn’t too terribly damaged either. Leaving the stallion out with her own horse (affectionately named Calligraphy. Calli for short.)
All in all, they both had been quite lucky and as she finally unloaded her gathered materials for Robbie and had dinner, she finally learned more of this… stranger.
“I’m a treasure hunter! Name’s Natsu Dragneel.” He had said, eyes gleaming even as he smiled wide enough to show off all his teeth. “Been pretty much everywhere just t’find stuff and explore the world, y’know? Heard there was some weird maze near here so I was goin’ t’go check it out before that dumb guardian took me by surprise.”
Honestly, that hadn’t surprised her at all. “Unfortunately, none of us have found a way to move it- “ She explained apologetically, “We’ve dismantled it many times, but every blood moon it… Well.. gets revived like every other monster out there.”
“Well, that just keeps things interesting, don’t it?” The way he offhandedly replied puzzled her greatly. … did… He calls near-death experiences… Interesting?
As crazy as it was, she still found herself laughing. It was… A breath of fresh air to see such an optimistic view of the world. Wounded and resting on the floor of the Akkala tech lab and yet he found the attacks of all-powerful machines to be interesting.
“I’m not so sure I agree…” She had replied, still laughing despite herself. “Though, I DO like studying them.” Most didn’t find her love of research interesting. In fact, for a guy to seem so enthused at nearly being killed, she suspected he’d be much the same.
And still, he managed to surprise her, “Oh so you must like treasure hunting then too!”
“–… well, erm-” That had caught her off guard. She had never really gone out for treasure, after all, just gathering materials for work. The way she hesitated made his eyes narrow again. “Wait, y’mean you like studyin’ stuff like old guys do and ya’ HAVEN’T gone out lookin’ for treasure? Don’t ya’ know most treasures are FOUND at places old fogey’s would just LOVE to study?”
“H-hey! Of COURSE I know that!” Bottom lip jutting out into a pout as she fumbled with her fingers. “I just- well, I never really thought about hunting for treasure….”
“Why not? Yer’ young and plenty tough, bet you’d survive just fine! That an’ your small so you could hide from monsters easy if you needed to.”
Somehow, she wasn’t sure just how much of that she should take as a compliment. Still, it made her blush all the same even as she shrugged. “I’ve had other responsibilities. Besides, I’m a scholar, not a warrior.”
“Hrmmm…”
What was that scowl about? He seemed to give that to her any time he had a question he wanted answered. Had she said something to upset him again? Whatever it was, he didn’t make mention of it. In fact, the conversation seemed to die out in lieu of him scarfing down dinner faster than she’d ever seen a Hylian eat.
Goodness, he had the appetite of a Goron, didn’t he? (Minus the rock eating-)
It wasn’t until later that night he even brought up what had been on his mind earlier that day. Natsu didn’t seem interested in staying the night, stating he wanted to still take a look at that Maze he had heard about. It disappointed him quite a bit when she had pointed out the very structure he had mentioned, a distance away on an island so far off, you’d need the ability to fly to even reach it.
“… you could- borrow my hang glider to go over there if you want?” Levy had found herself offering, but she added quickly, “Just as long as you bring it back to me!” That hang glider helped her reach many places in her travels, it would have been a shame to lose it.
Not to mention the fact she knew other Guardians littered that maze in the distance- anyone could see the aiming red lights in the dead of night, flying about the giant structure. She didn’t want him to aggravate his wounds or get lost there with no ability for others to come find him.
“Nah, maybe I’ll try it later,” He had replied, smiling just at the offer before he reached out to pat her shoulder. “Thanks, by the way. I hadn’t said that yet, had I? I kinda forget that sorta thing.”
Another smile followed and Levy waved him off, “No need to do that! I only did what any other person would have done!” Even that sounded ridiculous to her, but still- it wasn’t as if she was the only person who’d face down a guardian to protect someone else, was she?
Almost as if he had read her mind, Natsu shook his head, “Pfft, not e v e r y o n e.” Then, with another smile, he added, “Just the good ones.”
Now, why in all of Hyrule did that make her cheeks turn a bright red and heart thud against her rib cage? That was… far too nice a thing to hear. It made the expression on her face soften as the two of them fell quiet, with the lab off behind them and the maze staring ominously at them from the distance.
“Y’know- you should come with me for a treasure hunt.” His sudden words broke the nice moment, causing the smaller girl’s eyes to widen for a moment as she stared, nonplussed at him.
“Uhm- … seriously?”
His reaction was almost breathtaking in the fact it was speedy and threw her mentally off balance. Grabbing her slip shoulders, turning her to face him, that wide grin was already in place, as if it were a permanent fixture on his face. “Sure! Ya’ wanna explore old places and learn about them right? What better way than to search for stuff? An’ if ya’ come with me, I can help protect ya’ and do all the fighting!”
To him, it seemed to be the perfect plan, but the sudden thought had the researcher hesitating for many reasons. The biggest one of those being, “- but. We… barely know each other.”
“So? I can tell yer a good person, what better way to become friends than by working together?” Well, he ran through that argument like Goblins rushing for a slice of meat. Then again, she imagined (after watching him eat earlier) that he’d beat the goblins to that as well.
“- I’m REALLY supposed to be working on researching how to destroy Guardians…” She tried again, but the look he gave her was dubious.
“You took OUT one with an ARROW! What more do you need to research on that?!”
“P-plenty!”
“Bah!”
Well, that hadn’t worked- why was she trying to fight this, again? Her curiosity and hope to see ancient places buzzed under her veins. The idea WAS tempting. “- do you… Even have a place in mind to explore?” May as well figure out if he wasn’t just blowing hot air before she agreed to anything, right?
For a moment, she thought she may have finally cornered him, with how quiet her grew, scrunching his brows together in thought as his sword calloused hands finally released her. Despite thinking she had made her point, Levy felt a sinking emotion of bitter disappointment from within her stomach. Even with her misgivings… the thought of an adventure, to see old places and learned more about the world…
She truly did want that. There were so many places she wanted to explore. Old ruins, Hyrule castle itself! (Not that she would, she still wanted to live, of course-) Abandoned villages that had been grown over. She had tried before in her travels but had always been chased off.
With someone to protect her… Maybe it wouldn’t have been such a bad idea?
“Ya’ ever hear ‘bout the Forgotten Temple?” And there he was proving her wrong yet again, teeth glinting once more with his grin, “It’s at the bottom of this DEEP deep canyon. I’ve always wanted t’go there. Just hadn’t found a reason yet, but a Temple to explore sounds right up yer alley, what do you say?”
Her mind buzzed with thoughts, excitement welling up before she could even think to quell it. The Forgotten Temple! She had read so much about that in ancient texts, including old historical writings from the Sheikah themselves! No one truly knew what it was made for, but the rumors spoke of it existing long before the Hyrule Kingdom even EXISTED!
Levy’s grin grew to match Natsu’s, eyes glittering with absolute excitement.
“I… think you’ve got yourself a partner.” She found herself saying. Natsu’s reply was to cackle loudly into the air, practically crowing as he jumped in his own excitement before dragging her back to the lab to get his things together.
It would take Levy another thirty minutes to convince him that leaving in the morning (after informing Robbie she would be gone for awhile) would be a MUCH wiser idea. He may have had energy enough to take her breath away, but she still needed sleep, after all!
“By the way, what’s your name?” The fact he had only NOW just thought to ask her when they were finally preparing to leave, had her grinning in bemusement.
“Levy.” She’d save her last name for later. Did it truly matter just then?
Sliding himself to Happy’s saddle, the treasure-hunter grinned as he processed the name in his own head. “Sounds good, ready to go then Lev?”
“Erm… I said Levy.”
“And I called ya’ Lev!”
“ - but–!!”
And that was that. She hadn’t expected to save a complete stranger- let alone become his traveling companion while traversing half the land just to find an old temple. In fact, it was far beyond anything she had imagined doing. But he proved more than capable- wielding flaming broadswords and short swords with ease and fending off most beasts. Despite how long it would take to finally reach the Tanagar Canyon, Levy found herself enjoying her time with the exuberant hunter.
In fact, he had been right all along. Traveling together was perfect for building their friendship. Not that she needed to say that out loud. Both knew it well enough, hunting, cooking and traveling together with their horses. Naturally, they had to stop along the way for plenty of surprise and new weapons, but that was just how things would be when crossing the lands of a cursed world, wasn’t it?
Except, now that they were almost to Temple, all Levy REALLY wanted to do was curl up with a good book. That entire climb down had worn her out. With muscles aching to the point she wasn’t sure she’d be able to even move in the morning. By the time they’d both managed to reach the base of the canyon- night had fallen and was already almost replaced by the morning sun.
And yet, before they could even set up a camp, her assumptions of fighting off beasts had been correct. Natsu had taken care of most of it well before she’d even finished her climb- but for the stragglers, the elemental rods she often used (in replace of her Ancient bow and arrow) helps to finish the job.
Though, it was almost impossible to get her to move once her bedroll had been rolled out. Even with Natsu whining for a meal. Ugh, how was he not tired?
“It’s fine- I can eat when I wake up- “ She found herself mumbling while stretching her sore back and aching arms. The following snort from her companion was heard across the bonfire of flames he had worked up and she could tell he wasn’t going to let it stop there.
“No way,” he argued, sidling himself close to her bedroll in order to grasp her shoulders and shake her. “Gotta eat or ya won’t be strong tomorrow! Man, you really shoulda used yer hang glider for most of that climb, y’know?”
Yes. I know that. She quietly moaned into her own mind. It did little good to whine about it now, after all. What’s done was done. Her only moment of pride to take from the entire ordeal was that she HAD managed to do it all on her own, without falling to her death. Ah yes, surviving was definitely a reason to be happy with oneself.
“Can I please eat tomorrow?” She begged, “I really don’t want to sit up.”
Another snort followed and Natsu leaned over her, one brow raised as he dangled, what looked to be a bit of grilled fish over her face. “Want me t’feed ya’ then?”
Well- despite her screaming muscles, that shot her up quickly enough, cheeks burning red. “Goodness, no! I-I can do it myself!” And then he was laughing all over again, obviously pleased at the ruse he’d pulled. “S-stop laughing at me, that’s.. That, erm-”
“Aw, don’t be like that Lev,” He managed threw his chortles, grabbing a second grilled fish to hand to her. “It’s fun makin’ ya blush, can’t help it.”
“Are we sure you’re a treasure hunter and not just a clown?” She mumbled, accepting the offering as she struggled to tame the redness on her cheeks. No luck, his words only made it glow brighter.
He took her words seriously for a moment, humming out his thoughts while devouring his meal. “I mean, sure, I can be a clown- making people laugh is great” He admitted, before flashing that grin towards her once again. “Especially when it’s you. You’ve got a pretty one.”
There went calming down THAT blush. Squeaking, she hastily busied herself with her meal, whining at times when her muscles complained at the abuse they’d suffered during the day. However, he had been correct to force her to eat- already she felt some energy return to her. Not enough to keep her awake, by any means, but sustenance was important. Sighing-, Levy allowed her body to relax once again, popping as she moved to curl up on her bedroll the moment her meal was done.
She was pretty certain Natsu was already on his third fish. Good thing she kept all the food packed on HER horse. Smiling lightly, she laughed to herself just thinking about it. Somehow, his antics couldn’t upset her or truly annoy her. No- they just made her happy.
He really was a big clown in many ways. “I think- .. I’m going to sleep…” She mumbled, yawning was sleep began to grow heavy on her drooping eyelids.
Natsu grunted in response and it seemed things were calming down for sleep just as a sudden updraft of wind rustled through, almost putting out the bonfire and causing the treasure-hunter to squawk in annoyance as his own bedroll seemed to roll off. She would have chided him for not setting it up earlier, but was honestly, far too close to sleep to really care.
That is until the wind sent a chill along her face as a brilliant light shone even through her eyelids. “Mmm, what… Is that-”
“Lev. Lev. Get up- open yer eyes, y’gotta see this!” It wasn’t a voice of fear or worry, but rather surprised, gleeful awe and despite her exhaustion, she reopened her eyes with a moan of complaint-
Only to feel the very breath from her lungs escape into a loud gasp at what flew above them.
“… Oh- .. it’s Dinraal-” She breathed, but Natsu had no way to reply, too busy dancing on his feet and pointing to the spectacle so far up above the canyon.
Bright red and orange, fire flaring from magic golden claws- the Fire Dragon known as Dinraal flew above them, moving south along the canyon, soaring through the sky and illuminating the canyon as if it were noon. Bits of flames dispersed from the scales of the great beast, drifting down above them like tiny lights, fading away before they could land.
Like snowing fire, and Levy was enraptured. Absolutely beautiful. The exhaustion left her like evaporating ice and she reached a hand to the sky as if she could reach the great beast. How she had always wanted to see a Dragon, and though it flew so far above them…
It brought tears to her eyes. No matter the beasts and terrors of the world- there was still beauty, this proved that. Natsu, someone sensing her sudden burst of emotion, reached out to grasp her hand in his, grinning as the fires of the dragon above illuminated him along with the rest of the cliff face.
“Aint’ it amazing?” He whispered, glancing towards her for a mere moment before looking back to the dragon. It was massive, though the Head of the beast was many kilometers away, the tail of it had yet to pass them. Levy felt a knot form in her throat, unable to speak her agreement. Instead, she gripped his hand with a tiny squeeze while her awe shown on her face as plain as any emotion she could have felt.
It didn’t matter that she hadn’t been prepared to go on such an adventure upon their first meeting. Nor did it matter that her muscles ached and that the Forgotten Temple they were seeking out was just behind them after a little more travel. They had met under danger- had crossed the land of Hyrule with danger, peaceful nights and everything else in between.
This moment right here- even if they never made it into the temple, made it all worth it. At least it did for her.
“… Natsu-” She whispered quietly, “…. thank you for bringing me here.” Another squeeze of his hand before fingers threaded with his own. She wanted him to know just how.. Amazing this moment was to her, but what another way could she? When she was still so tired, yet absolutely enraptured by the sight above them?
Her thoughts seemed to come across just fine as he returned the squeeze, never taking his gaze away from the skies above them. It seems the very sight of a fire Dragon had placed him in silence as well. A strange thing for the boisterous hylian, but that didn’t matter. They could both stare up at the sky together as sleep slowly began to fight for dominance once again.
“No need t’thank me,” He finally replied, voice quiet, husky even as he seemed to lose control of his own emotions. “- I should be thanking you.”
With the dragon above them, and hands entwined, she finally fell to the sweet call of rest, arms going limp as sleep took her. A pleased smile and tears still covered her face, but Levy was happy.
“- thanks for not leaving me alone, Levy.”
She never heard the whispered appreciation spoken under the light of Dinraal’s fire.
