#house amicitia

[primamchorus]

Partial Dossier #02 :: House Amicitia

VOX INTELLIGENCE BUREAU HOUSE AMICITIA

REPORT FROM PAX VOX

FFXV: Reimagined Table of Contents

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The Amicitia family is perhaps the longest standing family that has been in service to the Lucian Royal Family. Ever the stalwart Shields of the King, this current era of King Regis Lucis Caelum has seen the loyal service of Clarus Amicitia at his side. For generations, those of House Amicitia and the Royal Family may very well be brothers and sisters in all but name.

House Amicitia has always served as protectors of the Crown, only being joined by Houses Somnium and then Chorus many generations later. With the Amicitias’ penchant for combat and boasting martial prowess, the Amicitias have ever been in charge of the Crownsguard once they were instated. Likewise, House Amicitia now trains and is responsible for the Kingsglaive in tandem with Houses Chorus and Somnium.

Associated with the image of an eagle, many members of House Amicitia have traditionally taken to tattooing the symbol of an eagle upon their bodies. Over years, this has evolved in a myriad of ways, and these days, the tattoo is often now simply up to the wearer’s discretion. Often, this tattoo is taken more seriously than presenting the house crest, as the tattoo cannot be easily forged nor stolen. The uniqueness of each tattoo makes it even more difficult to mimic. Each member of House Amicitia has each of their tattoos documented and filed for identification.

As history tells it, the reason for the eagle motif that House Amicitia honors is because it pays homage to a being by the name of ‘Enkidu’, companion to the first ever Shield of the King, Gilgamesh.

[smallest-turtle]

Iris: it feels weird grieving a woman I didn't know when gladio and dad actually have a Person to miss

Noct, just trying to make lemonade with her:... I get why you're choosing to talk to Me about your mom but this should go to like. Your school counselor or something. IDK what to do here

[wispofisis]

Iggy and Gladio's Christmas Gingerbread houses!

[aimeelouart]

More self-indulgent crossover. Yeah technically Gladio’s got a shirt on but we all know it doesn’t count.

[berrydoodleoo]

lord of house amicitia

[ertrunkenerwassergeist]

Can you tell us about flow laying? Like what are some of the cards used and what do they mean, how it's decided there should do one and who should be invited to it?

Do I have more info about flow laying? Oh boy, do I have more info about flow laying. (I have hand drawn charts!)

(This will be all over the place and very long, but please, bear with me.)

First off, the name. Why is it called flow laying? Well, because the cards literally read the flow of power travelling through the world. That way they can give information about the past and present, while they can only make guesses about the future. (Though most of the time they're very good guesses.)

Each card represents a person, a being, a concept, or a seat of power. Like the Black Ships represent the concept of unsuspecting danger drawing closer.

To your last question: In the case of The Games We Play, Rhea - as the owner of the cards - made the decision to lay them. (The reason was the too long and too cold winter) There's a preliminary reading upon which Rhea decides which people need to be present. It's an art form to read the cards and interpret who represents who and who to invite.

There are three big categories the cards fall into:

Active cards, sleeping cards and dead cards.

Active cards are depicting those beings/people/concepts which are actively part of what you want to know. Sleeping cards depict those who don't/can't actively play a part, but are still a factor to be considered. And dead cards are remnants that are still important, but are quite literally dead.

The next biggest categories are the domains in which the cards take their places. There are two of them. The Greater Domains and the Lesser Domains. Which Domain (group of cards) falls into which is dependent on infulence and power, so there's a certain amount of fluidity. Though it is considered a Big Deal when a Domain changes place.

Under the Greater Domains fall The Hunt, The Astrals, The Night, The Day and The Wilds. The Lesser Domains contain The Fire, The Black and the Royal Domain. There's also a group of neutral cards that don't owe their allegiance to one Domain or another, so they make a group of their own.

How many cards there are exactly constantly changes and depends on what the person/people laying the cards want to know. (The Greater Domain of The Astrals is the most stable at 30 cards. The six Astrals and the 24 messengers.)

The Domains of The Hunt and The Wilds represent those belonging to the Wooden Throne, which represents Galahd. The card Wooden Throne itself is considered neutral, since it doesn't belong to one Domain or another.

The Astrals are pretty self explanatory, I think.

The Night and The Day represent the Sister Goddesses and their servants. (Etro, for example, it the Queen of The Night. She is a sleeping card, because she cannot actively intervene in anything going on. Eos is the Queen of The Day. She is a dead card for obvious reasons.)

The Black is the starscourge with Ardyn as the Herold. He switches from a sleeping card to an active one, and it makes people in the kow very nervous.

The Royal Domain represents the roayal houses of Lucis and Tenebrae. The King is the king of Lucis, the Queen the queen of Tenebrae. There's also cards called the Shield (Amicitia), and the General (currently Cor).

The Fire is an interesting one because no one is quite sure what that one is about. It slowly cropped up over the span of decades and is mostly made up of sleeping cards with the odd active one.

Neutral cards other than the Black Ships and the Wooden Throne would be the Gates (Death) and the Chained Heart (the Crystal/Light/healing).

[ffxvficrec]

by omgfloofy Privacy had become a luxury to Noctis since he became the 'Insurgent King.' Having been given time in the baths alone at an Insomnian bath house was more of a luxury than the hot water itself. It remained a comfort until he thought he heard the door to the bath area open... but it wasn't Gladio to check in on him. Nor did he hear it close... Words: 3028, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English Series: Part 6 of The Insurgent King Fandoms: Final Fantasy XV Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply Categories: Gen Characters: Noctis Lucis Caelum , Gladiolus Amicitia , unnamed minor character Additional Tags: bath house , Attempted Murder , Choking , Burns , Mild depictions of blood , Drowning , Noctis Just Isn't Having a Great Time

[indigosuvi]

Past‚ Present‚ & Future Character List

If the fandom or character does well, it will make a comeback and will be added to my permanent write list. More info here | Simple Version

* indicates a new fandom. | ☆ indicates a fandom I discontinued. | characters in bold are characters I discontinued. | no indicator is a current fandom I write for & have no intentions to discontinue.

* Ahiru No Sora - Chiaki, Fuwa, Kaname, Kenji, Momoharu, Shinichi, Tokina, Tokiwa, Yakuma, and Yukinara.

* Black Butler - Claude, Grelle, Sebastian, Undertaker, William (added to the list!)

Bleach - Äs Nödt, Byakuya Kuchiki, Gin Ichimaru, Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez, Isshin Kurosaki, Izuru Kira, Jūshirō Ukitake, Kenpachi Zaraki, Kensei Muguruma, Kisuke Urahara, Mayuri Kurotsuchi, Nnoitra Gilga, Renji Abarai, Shinji Hirako, Shūhei Hisagi, Shunsui Kyōraku, Sōsuke Aizen, Szayelaporro Granz, Ulquiorra Cifer, Uryu Ishida, Yasutora Sado, Yumichika Ayasegawa.

☆ Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 - Alejandro, Alex, John, Johnny, König, Phillip, Rodolfo, Simon. *Kyle

Chronicles of Ancient Darkness - Aki, Arrin, Asrif, Bale, Boar Clan Mage, Chelko, Dark, Detlan, Fin-Kedinn, Gaup, Hord, Iakim, Inuktiluk, Juksakai, Krukoslik, Kujai, Kyo, Maheegun, Narrander (The Walker), Orvo, Poi, Raut, Sialot, Tenris, Thiazzi, Thull, Tiu, Tseid, Yolun.

Devil May Cry - Dante, Nero, V, and Vergil.

Final Fantasy - Angeal Hewley, Cloud Strife, Genesis Rhapsodos, Gladiolus Amicitia, Ignis Scientia, Kadaj, Loz, Noctis Lucis Caelum, Prompto Argentum, Reno Sinclair, Rufus Shinra, Sephiroth, Vincent Valentine, Yazoo, Zack Fair.

* Food Wars! - Akira Hayama, Eishi Tsukasa, Isami Aldini, Satoshi Isshiki, Takumi Aldini, Terunori Kuga.

Grand Theft Auto V - Ron Jakowski, Trevor Philips, and Wade Hebert.

Gone - Albert Hillsborough, Alex Mayle, Antoine, Caine Soren, Charles "Orc" Merriman, Drake Merwin, Edilio Escobar, Elwood Booker, Hunter Lefkowitz, Lance, Tony "Cookie" Gilder, Toto, Turk, Tyler "Bug", Paint, Panda, Quinn Gaither, Roger, Zil Sperry.

Haikyuu - Atsumu Miya, Daichi Sawamura, Eita Semi, Kei Tsukishima, Keiji Akaashi, Keishin Ukai, Kenma Kozume, Kōshi Sugawara, Kōtarō Bokuto, Lev Haiba, Osamu Miya, Rintarō Suna, Ryūnosuke Tanaka, Satori Tendō, Shinsuke Kita, Tadashi Yamaguchi, Tetsurō Kuroo, Tobio Kageyama, T��ru Oikawa, Wakatoshi Ushijima, Yū Nishinoya.

☆ Halloween 1978 - Michael Myers

Hellboy - Abraham Sapien and Nuada Silverlance.

Hetalia Axis Powers - America, Australia, Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Cuba, Denmark, England, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Italy, Japan, Korea, Kugelmugel, Ladonia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Molossia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Prussia, Romania, Russia, Seborga, South Italy, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

House of Wax - Bo, Lester, and Vincent. 

* Hunger Games - Darrius, Finnick Odair, Gale Hawthorne, Haymitch

* Hunter x Hunter - Chrollo, Hisoka, Illumi

* Jujutsu Kaisen - Choso, Geto, Nanami Kento.

Kuroko No Basket - Atsushi Murasakibara, Chihiro Mayuzumi, Daiki Aomine, Kazunari Takao, Kiyoshi Miyaji, Makoto Hanamiya, Reo Mibuchi, Shinji Koganei, Shintarō Midorima, Shoichi Imayoshi, Taiga Kagami, Tatsuya Himuro, Teppei Kiyoshi, Wei Liu.

Mortal Kombat - Baraka, Bi-Han, Dairou, Erron Black, Fujin, Hanzo Hasashi, Havik, Hotaru, Hsu Hao, Jarek, Johnny Cage, Kabal, Kano, Kenshi, Kobra, Kuai Liang, Kung Lao, Kurtis Stryker, Mavado, Quan Chi, Rain, Reiko, Shang Tsung, Shao Kahn, Taven, Tomas Vrbada. Onaga, Reptile, Goro, Kintaro.

— All Mortal Kombat characters will be written from MK 11 and the past. I will not be writing for the new game. — Smut for animals is *not* allowed

My Hero Academia - Dabi, Denki Kaminari, Eijiro Kirishima, Fumikage Tokoyami, Hanta Sero, Hitoshi Shinso, Hizashi Yamada, Izuku Midoriya, Kai Chisaki, Katsuki Bakugo, Keigo Takami, Mashirao Ojiro, Mezo Shoji, Mirio Togata, Neito Monoma, Shota Aizawa, Shoto Todoroki, Tamaki Amajiki, Tenya Iida, Tomura Shigaraki.

Naruto - Asuma Sarutobi, Deidara, Gaara, Genma Shiranui, Hashirama Senju, Hidan, Iruka Umino, Itachi Uchiha, Jiraiya, Kabuto Yakushi, Kakashi Hatake, Kakuzu, Kankurō, Kisame Hoshigaki, Kushimaru Kuriarare, Madara Uchiha, Might Guy, Minato Namikaze, Nagato (Pain), Neji Hyūga, Obito Uchiha, Orochimaru, Rock Lee, Sai, Sasori, Shikamaru Nara, Tobi, Tobirama Senju, Yamato, Zetsu.

☆ Nightmare on Elm - Freddy Krueger

* Shatter Me - Brendan, Winston.

Texas Chainsaw Massacre - Alfredo Sawyer, Edward "Tex" Saywer, Robert "Chop Top" Sawyer, and Nubbins Sawyer.

☆ The Boy - Brahms Heelshire

Tokyo Ghoul - Kishou Arima, Nimura Furuta, Renji Yomo, Uta. 

Tokyo Revengers - Chifuyu Matsuno, Keisuke Baji, Ken "Draken' Ryuguji, Manjiro "Mikey" Sano, Mitsuya Takashi, Nahoya "Smiley" Kawata, Ran Haitani, Shuji Hanma, Souya "Angry" Kawata.

* Yuri On Ice - Chris, Otabek, Viktor, Yuri P.

[germanpostwarmodern]

In the late 19th and early 20th century World’s Fairs were incredibly popular crowd pullers and an effective tool for nations to create their national „brand“. In 1930 the Belgian city of Antwerp hosted the „Exposition internationale coloniale, maritime et d'art flamand“ which, like its name suggests, focused on colonialism, the maritime and Flemish art. Besides, among others, Austria, Brazil, Germany and Spain also the Netherlands were present with an national pavilion designed by Hendricus Theodorus Wijdeveld.

The Dutch architecture and art magazine „Wendingen“, the mouthpiece of the architect association „Architectura et Amicitia“, in 1930 dedicated its third annual issue to the exhibition pavilion, highlighting both its architecture and the exhibition it housed. Coincidentally Hendrik Wijdeveld at that time also was the editor in chief of „Wendingen“ The cover page was designed by the graphic designer Willem Jacob Rozendaal.

In the pavilion the focal point lies on the promotion of the Rotterdam harbor, the Dutch landscape and the Dutch colonies while the fine arts only play a subordinate role in the self-display of the country. Around the different displays Wijdeveld designed an airy yet monumental pavilion that is very much in keeping with his Amsterdam School architecture: clean-cut volumes and pronounced massing but without the expressive details that can be found in the work of colleagues like Michel de Klerk.

A massive thank you goes to @kundst for providing me with this treasure!

[caparrucia]

Hi, if you feel like it, in SiO or any verse, can you write about Anemone Amititia being her terrifying self? Thanks again for giving us such amazing stories!

Lady Amicitia is, without a doubt, the most beautiful woman in Insomnia.

Even while the late Queen was alive, and people had to twist around the obvious to avoid impropriety, it was well known that her smile could illuminate a room. Her laughter is bright and musical, much more often heard than her equally lovely voice, for she is often seen but rarely heard. Not that anyone complains, because seeing her is falling in love with her, at least a little. The idea of her, if nothing else.

She’s beautiful and glittering, like a diamond, and vacant, just like one. Transparent. There’s nothing to her, this is well known. She’s quiet because she’s been taught to be prudent, but also because she doesn’t have anything to say. Any and all attempts to pry an opinion out of her have failed spectacularly, as she defers in everything to her Lord husband, who stares sternly and refuses to acknowledge anything he deems beneath him. Most people are. So are their concerns.

So there’s Lady Amicitia, perfect paragon of empty smiles, impeccable fashion and unthreatening charisma.

It’s a game, of course, to be where the Lady holds court: the Queen is dead and when she wasn’t, she might as well be, it has been the duty of the Shield’s wife to tend to the court since she married into the post. She listens avidly and offers good will and compassion and endless softness to all who approach. It’s a game, how many layers of treason they can parade in her face and the vapid, stupid smiles never falter, never wane. Lady Amicitia exists to hang off her husband’s arm, to birth him children and replenish his house, but little else.

The senior Ladies know, of course, the only reason the court hasn’t gone to pieces under such incompetent leadership is their own hard work keeping their peers in line. They congratulate each other for a job well done, and in the fit of pettiness, perhaps, once in a while, throw a riddle at the dazzling flower of the court, just to see her fail to understand the insults woven in it.

It’s for the best, of course, to keep the structure of power clean and neat and simple.

Her predecessor, after all, had been overbearing and imposing and an unwelcome fulcrum in an already delicate situation, considering the previous King and all his… eccentricities.

It occurs to exactly none of them, that she’s been groomed for her title as much as her predecessor, the perpetual cycling of the old houses offering either future Queens or future Mothers of Shields, one of the most powerful sustaining forces in the Kingdom. She’s beautiful and she’s vapid and it is all so very comforting, that no one ever bothers to contemplate the alternative.

“Well, this is awkward,” Cor said, breaking through into the safe room where the head of the largest criminal organization in Insomnia was supposed to be.

“Is it?” Anemone replied, sitting on the edge of her desk, long legs crossed at the knee, rather than the ankle, just because she could. “I did warn you.”

Cor opened his mouth to retort she bloody well had not, and then remembered the night before, getting a girlish comment from the Shield’s wife about not chasing his own shadow.

It showed on his face, even as he swallowed back the profanity sitting at the tip of his tongue, because she laughed at him, loud and terrible, feet kicking in delight.

“Now what?” Cor asked, in the stoic tones of one used to being the butt of the joke, surly and sulking, and well aware she thought the whole thing was adorable, anyway.

“Well, now we choose whose pesky court dipshit’s incriminating evidence you’re going to find here, in lieu of a person.” Anemone smiled brightly. “Do you have a preference?”

“I don’t care about the court,” Cor said sincerely, lips pursed into an annoyed, flat line.

“As the person required to care in your steed, dear, I know,” Anemone replied, shaking her head.

“The one you like least, then,” Cor tried instead, as he watched her slide off the desk with grace, clearly entertained by the proceedings.

He’d never seen her fight, of course. It was not proper for Lady Amicitia to do such a thing. Much the same way it was inconceivable for the Queen to spar with him when she was bored. The way she moved, though, controlled and confident and very much downplaying both, it itched at him. He doubted anyone but Clarus would know, for sure. After all, everyone knew Lord Amicitia was deeply, profoundly besotted by his wife, but only the truly keen were aware it was very much mutual.

“You give me the nicest gifts, darling,” Anemone said, and brought him a thick file before she sauntered away without looking back.

As Cor went about scattering the planted evidence himself, making sure it looked convincing, he wondered if anyone at court remembered Lady Amicitia’s name.

Or what it meant.

[itsgeecheebitch]

Until Darkness Descends

Chapter: 42/?

Fandom: Final Fantasy XV

Rating: Explicit

Series: The Fall Part 1 of 4

Main Pair: Ardyn Izunia x Reader

Sec Pair: Gladiolus Amicitia x Reader

    A few days passed when the team finally located the regalia. Turns out  the empire had it all along just as Gladiolus had suspected. With the car back in your possession, and your plans for Cape Caem falling into place, you and the boys made your way to Lestallum. None of you had any intention of leaving Iris and the others in the city while you sailed east to Altissia. 

      Cid had informed you of a safe house he built near the lighthouse in Caem. Quiet, spacious, remote, a perfect hiding place from the empire. Iris, Talcott, and Jared would be safe there unlike in Lestallum. While Iris and the others were currently living amongst refugees from the capital, strength in numbers didn't mean much when they had a close connection to the five most wanted ‘fugitives’ Nilfheim was after. 

       Leaning your head back, the sun beamed down on your face, turning the inside of your eyelids red as you closed them. You hoped they would agree to go. While Cape Caem wasn't as exciting as a bustling city, it was safer and they would be surrounded by guards who would protect them. The deep rumbling of an engine disturbed your musings, alerting you to something huge flying overhead.

        Opening your eyes, you saw a massive platform soar through the sky. The insignia for the empire stared back at you from the platform’s edge. A dizzying bout of unease rushed through your system. It was flying in the direction of the city. Lestallum had remained a free city state for so long, but something told you it would be the empire’s next destination…and soon. So soon it made the back of your neck prickle with raised hair. You needed to get the three of them out of the city before that could happen.

       The sounds and smells of the city greeted the five of you as you arrived. The fetid stench of sulfur from the factories curled around your nose, nearly burying the savory scent from the food stalls that dotted the industrial landscape. Parking the car, you and the boys made your way to the Leville. 

         The sun was on your back, heating your skin till it glistened with sweat. Once you arrived at the hotel, you found Iris standing in the lobby alone. Her cheeks puffy and her eyes rimmed red. Dread froze your stomach solid. You knew something terrible had happened even before she said it. 

       “Oh Gladdy…”, she whimpered.

       Muscles tensed, Noctis approached her. “What's wrong?”

      “It's Jared…something happened!” Iris cried. Without another word, the boys escorted her to one of the rooms you had pre-booked, your gut in knots as she revealed everything that had happened. A few days ago Niflheim soldiers had stormed the Leville, looking for you and the boys after you had regained the regalia. Enraged that you weren’t there, they slaughtered Jared in your stead. 

       Ice spread over your chest like a tumor till all you could feel was guilt. You knew Jared for as long as you knew your boyfriend and his sister. Although he had alway maintained a certain level of decorum, as dictated by his profession, he was always warm. Kind. He didn't deserve to die when he did nothing wrong. A tear slid down your face before you realized it had fallen. 

      You wondered who it was that ordered the manhunt. Was it Ardyn? Was that why he allowed you and your friends to drive off with the regalia? A shudder rushed across your body. You knew they would retaliate for what you did to their base, but you didn’t think it would result in one of your own paying the price for it.

      The door hinges keened as it was forced open. Your heart broke in two when you saw it was Talcott standing in the doorway. Rising from his chair, Noctis knelt in front of him, opening and closing his mouth while he tried to find the words to say.  “It's not right, we should've been here.” He said.

     “I…I couldn't stop them!” Talcott cried.

      A part of you wanted to comfort the boy too. Pull him into your arms and promise that everything would be okay, but you knew it wouldn't be. At the end of the day he would still be left without his grandfather, the only family he had left. It was probably Ardyn's fault that he was orphaned a second time.

      You missed the rest of the exchange and watched as the little boy walked away. The ghost of his tears haunted you and made your chest swell with unshed tears.

      “I'm taking Talcott and we're going somewhere else.” Iris said, wiping her eyes with the backside of her hand. “Lestallum isn't safe anymore. We can't just stay here and wait for them to come back!”

      Gladiolus knelt down beside her and placed his hand over hers. “We actually came here to make arrangements for you and Talcott to go to Caem. We'll make sure you guys get there safely so you don't have to worry.”

       “Who's taking us?” She asked. 

       “Monica more than likely. she seemed on board when we last called.”

       “Okay...are we leaving together?”

       “Unfortunately, no.” You whipped your head around to Ignis who was leaning against the wall. A frown was on his face as he delivered his next words. “It'll take Monica a little over two days to reach here from where she is currently stationed. We cannot risk delaying our arrival.”

      A shadow of disappointment darkened her crestfallen face. It didn't seem fair to leave Iris and Talcott all alone after what happened. They already spent so many days alone with their grief only to be told they had to do it a second time. But it couldn't be helped. Noctis needed to get to Altissia as soon as possible. During their encounter with Gentiana, the group found out Lunafreya planned to awaken the water goddess.

      You guys had no way of knowing when she planned to do it, which was why you had to get there as soon as possible. But still, this situation didn't feel right. 

       Your boyfriend seemed to agree since he said, “don't worry I'm not going anywhere.” Then he turned to address the rest of you. “I'll hitch a ride with Monica and keep Iris company.”

      “No, I'll stay back.” You said before you could stop yourself. “Noctis needs his shield, he can't risk losing you while the empire is on our trail. In fact, if any of us is going to stay back then Iris may as well ride with you guys. there'll be room in the back and I'll just hitch a ride with Monica and Talcott.”

       Gladiolus stood up from his position on the floor and folded his arms over his chest. “Nah, it'll be too dangerous.”

       “So is leaving her with Monica as her only defense.” You reasoned. “The empire knows our faces, they may even know that Iris is an Amicitia. if the empire wants to strike someone close to the crown, then they would do it whether or not she is with you. Iris would be more protected riding with the four of you than with Monica.”

        The room fell silent with everyone contemplating your words. Ignis was the first to break the ice, rubbing his chin in that way of his that let you know he was thinking. “You make a rather compelling argument.”

      “I say we take her with us, it might be fun.” Prompto said.

       Noctis turned to you. “You sure you're okay with staying behind?”

      “Yeah.” You replied. “It's the least I could do.” It took some convincing but Gladiolus agreed eventually. When that was settled, Iris went back to her room, leaving the boys to discuss their frustrations over Jared. Prompto proposed getting revenge on the empire and Noctis remembered the flying Niflheim base they rode passed on the way here.

        It was a unanimous decision once the suggestion was made and the boys took off in search of the base, leaving you to watch over a heartbroken Iris and tearful Talcott. You tried to cheer them up as best as you could for the rest of the day, rented movies from the hotel’s cinema library, played cards, and strolled through the building.

       But at night with the kids tucked in bed, it was you who was swamped with thoughts. The room was dark with only a thin stream of silver light to illuminate the four walls of the room. Noctis and the others weren't back yet and would more than likely not return till tomorrow. It was in that moment that your mind began to play, haunting you like a tune echoing through an abandoned opera house. 

       Memories you hadn't thought about in a while floated into your head like notes of sweet perfume, making your chest twinge with bittersweet nostalgia. You remembered the first time you met Jared. It was on a cool evening. The desert wind was cruel as it whipped your face and brushed the ring of inflamed flesh that was around your neck.

      You were eleven at the time. Ardyn hadn't visited you in over three weeks and your parents were becoming crueler by the day. Thoughts of running away were what propelled your legs despite the burning in your chest. Pins and needles danced on your face, freezing the tears rushing down your cheeks. You turned a corner and bumped into something solid and warm before crashing onto the ground. 

      When you looked up you saw wisps of white hair and a face weathered by years of hard work. Panic bubbled in your throat at the first trace of recognition. You’ve seen this man a few times before. At a distance and occasionally accompanying the Amicitia family heir. He worked for them. If he worked for a powerful noble family then that meant he more than likely knew who you were. 

        The bubble in your throat popped, flooding your body with searing adrenaline. What if he asked where your parents were? What if he took you back? Your mind raced, competing with the thrashing of your beating heart. But instead of one of your nightmare scenarios coming to life he knelt down on the ground, dropping his bags of groceries as he did. 

      He asked if you were alright. When you didn’t answer you saw his eyes zero in on the angry welts wrapped around your neck. You slapped your hand over the marks and quickly healed then. Much to your surprise, he didn't ask about them and instead offered to buy you tea and a warm meal, which you accepted after a brief moment of hesitation. Since then, Jared had become something of a grandfather to you. He was aware of what most people pretended to not notice. He helped you befriend the Amicitia children so you could have a home away from home whenever you needed an escape.

        You released the balloon building in your chest and sobbed into your pillow. He was a good man. He didn't deserve to die. Never again would you be able to see his warm smile, or taste his pancakes, or even talk to him. A sharp pain cleaved a chunk of your heart. You just keep losing the people you care about left and right. You lost your circus family and now you lost Jared…and it could've been Ardyn's fault.

       The door groaned and you sat up. Wiping away your tears, you expected to see Talcott or Iris when the clawing scent of citrus hit your nose. Your eyes hardened at the towering shadow moving through the dark. A blade of silver light peeled the shadows from his face, revealing his brilliant amber eyes.

      You turned away. “What do you want?”

       “I came to check on you, my dear. I know my...affection must've troubled you.” Ardyn said. Warmth leeched down your legs at the memory his words had inspired.But you choked it down quickly before it could reveal itself on your face.

        “That kiss is the farthest thing from my mind right now” You mumbled. Your glare cut through the darkness till you found his gaze. “Did you send them? The soldiers that came here, did you order them to kill someone close to the prince?”

         The floorboards creaked the closer he came to your bed. “No, but I was aware of it nonetheless. It was Lieutenant Fleuret who orchestrated the ambush. I advised against it, but it seems he heeded none of it. I truly feel sorry for your loss, my dear.”

          You felt your animosity, as fragile as it was, crumble to dust and float away on the wind. An all encompassing despair took its place, slamming into you like violent waves against a rocky cliff. The bed dipped. His hand wrapped around the back of your head and guided you down to his chest. Your fingers curled into his coat as you sobbed.

          You breathed him in, soaking up that tropical scent that accompanied him wherever he went. It flooded your lungs, warming the melancholy that trapped your insides in a block of ice. Then you remembered yourself. “You need to go.” You pulled away but Ardyn refused to let you go. “You can’t be here.”

       “I come as a friend and nothing more, you have my word.” It was a weak argument but it was enough to shatter the last of your defenses. You didn't fight him as he guided you back into his arms. You knew this was anything but platonic. There was love in the way he rubbed your back. His lips were a feather light touch on the top of your head. Now that his affections were made clear as day, you couldn't read his touch as anything else than what it truly was. 

       Instead of turning it away, you invited it with open arms. You cried into his chest, knowing it wasn't right to find comfort in the arms of another man. You just made a promise to yourself that you would be a better girlfriend for Gladiolus, all it took to discard that promise was one little visit from the man you never truly stopped wanting. 

       You were foul in every sense of the word but at this moment you didn't care. Gladiolus was miles away and left you to face your grief on your own. You weren't strong enough to stand under the full weight of it by yourself. Nor were you strong enough to withstand the full depth of your failure. Twice had you failed the people who needed you most. You weren't there when king Regis fell to his enemies and you weren't there when Jared met his demise. 

       Glittery green light swirled around your fingers like fireflies, as if reminding you of the power that coursed through your veins. You sighed and the light faded away from your hand. What was the point of having the ability to undo death if you couldn't use it to save the people you cared about? 

       Your face lit up with an idea. You looked up at Ardyn with a face damped with tears. “What did they do to his body? to Jared's?” You said. Hope rode hard on your lungs, making your breaths come out in thin gasps. Maybe there was a way to bring Jared back. Ardyn was a prominent politician in the empire, one with enough power to bring you Jared’s remains unquestioned. 

       Sympathy flitted across his face and your hopes died on a whimper. “There is nothing left to salvage of his remains, I'm afraid.” His arms tightened around you. “Even if I could scrap up what is left, it would not be enough to revive him, I'm sorry.”

       Ardyn rocked you, silencing your anguish with gentle shushes and feather light caresses. He tucked you in once your tears finally stopped. Without a word, he rose from the bed and approached the door. Only stopping when you whimpered, “don't go…”

       The shadows masked the way his shoulders tensed and he came back to the bed. Your side warmed as he laid down beside you and pulled you back into his arms. 

      It was about an hour or so ago when you fell asleep, but Ardyn remained. The moon shone brightly against your face, illuminating every lash that laid against your cheeks. His finger whispered across your jaw, so softly, barely touching, as though you were a freshly painted portrait he didn't want to disturb. 

       Almost two weeks had passed since he began to wonder who you really were. The more he looked at you, the more that crushing agony devoured his chest. He had longed for you for so long. Longed to touch you, to kiss you, to talk to you, now that he had you he was about to lose you all over again. 

        This time by his own hand. Over the past two weeks he agonized over his options, combing through every scenario in the hopes that one would leave you alive. He considered just killing Noctis. But just like you he was under the gods’ protection. He wouldn't die until he became the chosen king and fulfilled his role.

      Ardyn considered stealing you away ahead of time. Hide you within the heart of the empire and kill Noctis when the time comes. But just as the prophecy dictated, if he allowed himself to be happy with you, to fully embrace his love for you, his powers would weaken and he would succumb to his brother’s descendent.

      No matter the scenario the end result remained the same. Unless he was willing to forsake his revenge he had no choice but to hurt you. Ardyn held you tighter against him. There was another option he considered, but only briefly. He could spend his final days with you before offering himself up to the slaughter. It was the only option that would leave you happy and live, the only one where he would be able to enjoy his wife before losing you forever. But it was an option he could not take.

       He had come too far to let it all go to waste now. No matter how much he cared about you it would never be enough to quench his need for revenge. If that was the path he chose then he did not deserve to be with you. He did not deserve to hold you in his arms and bask in the temporary peace it gave him. Peeling away from you, he rose from the bed and conjured a piece of paper from thin air. 

       Scribbling a quick note, he left his number at the bottom of the page and left the note for you on the nightstand. His heart was heavy as he reached for the door. He knew he shouldn’t have but he looked back at you one final time. You didn’t deserve what he was about to do to you. But Ardyn was no longer the selfless healer you fell in love with 2,000 years ago. He was a hardened monster that could only deliver pain and the only thing you would ever receive from him was pain. Opening the door, he walked away with his heart breaking off piece by piece.  

[primamchorus]

Burning Valor

Cor Leonis, youngest person in the history of Insomnia to have become a Crownsguard at the age of thirteen, is now offered a title of nobility for his loyalty to the Crown and her people. His valorous deeds have never gone missed by King Regis. However, the decision to move forward with it weighs heavy...perhaps heavier than any decision Cor has had to make in the past.

Word Count: 2,256

FFXV: Reimagined Table of Contents

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“Marshal, a moment of your time?” The voice cut through the quiet corridor, firm yet friendly.

The marshal, a man of a lean build and serious expression hardened from years of service, stopped and turned toward the voice that called to him. Standing behind him was the king flanked only by one of his closest friends and members of the Lucian Royal Council. Of course, this meant the marshal gave them both his full attention, crossing his right arm over his chest before bowing respectfully to them.

“Highness…” the man respectfully greeted, his light blue gaze still turned toward the ground. “What can I do for you?”

“If you would, Marshal, I request your presence in a private meeting with Clarus and myself,” the king requested. This caused the man to slowly look up, the barest hint of intrigue evident in the serious expression wrought across his features.

“... No trouble at all,” the marshal replied, straightening back up into standing position. The king then nodded subtly toward Clarus, and the trio set off down the hall toward a meeting room nestled away within the base of the Citadel. Normally, Cor gave no thought to the hall and its features, but this time, he noted the long, dark shadows that were cast onto the walls with each light they passed. A distraction, perhaps.

The marshal’s mind churned and twisted with silent questions. It had been a while since he needed to be debriefed on anything major. Had Niflheim made significant movements that needed opinions or a plan of action on? Was there word back from House Vox and their branch on happenings within Niflheim controlled territories that needed the Glaive? Was that why Clarus was present?

Despite the tempest of thoughts, his expression remained stoic as ever. He continued his pace behind both individuals until, at last, they reached the door to a room the man was all too familiar with: the war room. He often came here to help plan strategic meetings and plans of action for the Crownsguard and sometimes the Kingsglaive to follow.

So what was it being used for today? And by the king himself no less?

When the door closed behind them, the marshal stood at attention, hands behind his back. He kept his gaze glued to the king, never even taking a moment to glance in Clarus’ direction. It was the king who summoned him, so it was the king he would make sure had his undivided attention.

“Be at ease, Cor,” the king said, his voice carrying the weight of years spent in leadership as he made his way to the blackwood table. He lowered himself into a chair, a slight slump in his posture -- a subtle departure from the regal bearing usually demanded by his station.

Cor finally gave the barest tilt of his head to the circumstance in which he found himself. If this was not some matter of grave import, then why was this meeting arranged? Regardless, he held his posture, only slightly relaxing his shoulders.

“Your Highness…” Cor started. “Is there ne-”

“Dispense with such formalities, Cor,” the king interjected with a bit of a tiredness to his tone, waving a hand like swatting a fly away. “It does us a disservice behind closed doors to act as if we are merely king and his loyal subject. Please, I would have you speak as you would without titles or duty influencing your every word or thought.”

“... Regis…” Cor slowly started, his posture remaining still somewhat rigid. “I’m curious as to the reason I've been summoned. This doesn’t seem like a typical briefing for a mission or military council.”

“It’s not. Which is why I approach you today with Clarus as friends and former traveling companions. Brothers, if you will,” Regis said in response. He then motioned toward one of the chairs. “If you would, it would perhaps be best if you sit. I wish to discuss this matter with you as it is something that may be seen as a heavy burden.”

Hesitating only a moment, Cor strode to a nearby chair and slowly took a seat. His eyes never left Regis, his mind only hanging onto the question: ‘whatever could he want to discuss?’

Silence hung heavy for a time before Regis finally sighed and clasped his hands together over the table’s surface. Perhaps whatever he had to say was not an easy thing. Perhaps it was just as heavy as the air felt within that moment.

"I wish to bestow upon you the honor of ennoblement, Cor."

Cor’s lips parted ever so slightly with surprise. Did he hear Regis correctly just then?

“That’s…” Cor began, eyes going to the table and tracing over the woodgrain and pattern -- as if trying to find words to use in the natural etchings. 

This would have been the first time someone was elevated to nobility in a while. Two or three centuries, if Cor recalled correctly. “That’s a large responsibility to bestow upon one who merely saw himself as lending his efforts toward the Guard and Glaive. But I suppose you wouldn’t simply do this on a whim and have discussed it at length with the rest of the Royal Council.”

Regis gave a slight nod of confirmation, his attention firm on Cor. “The decision is ultimately yours, my friend. I will harbor no ill-will toward you should you decline.”

There were, of course, a number of benefits that would have come with going through the rite of ennoblement. Becoming part of the king’s circle of nobles would mean Cor got a greater wealth of magic bestowed to him from the Crystal. He could do his job even better. Maybe it was best while he was still within his thirties…

“I can't lie…the benefits outweigh the negatives…” Cor began in response, closing his eyes as he leaned forward. “But…I fear that moving forward with this and making a House Leonis would be short-lived… I've never had a desire to father a child, let alone find someone to make that possible. You'd be making your noble house simply for it to vanish in -- if we're fortunate -- another fifty years. Less if I can't live by that damned epithet everyone's given me.”

“I warned Regis this would be your answer,” Clarus said, his first real interaction since they had all come to meet. A look of mild annoyance settled upon Clarus’ face as he folded his arms over his chest. Regis cast a sidelong glance at him; it seemed evident that their lifelong bond perhaps saw them bickering over the decision before they approached Cor at all. Cor, meanwhile, glanced between them, a heavy, silent sigh making his shoulders and chest heave for but a moment.

Returning his attention to Cor, Regis adjusted in his seat, clearing his throat. “It matters not to me if you want the line of nobility to extend past yourself. It has always been your aid, loyalty, and unwavering, valorous spirit that have inspired me to reach out to you to build the foundation for the Valor of the King.”

Valor of the King… There was a slight ring to it. Still, it was a large responsibility to carry. Cor felt like if he was elevated to nobility, there would be some duty to seeing an heir ascend and take over. Much like all the others that came before: Hand, Shield, Arms, Heart, Eyes, and Ears.

The pregnant pause that filled the room went unmissed by all, least of all, Regis.

“But…you should know…the Crystal will recognize not only you as part of a noble family.”

Cor looked up, a flicker of intrigue and confusion making him tilt his head slightly. “What does that mean?”

“It means your younger siblings will also be recognized. Your parents, too, were they still with us,” Regis explained. “The Crystal will touch all who share your bloodline. It holds no prejudice over any one person within a family with the same blood.”

Realization set in before Cor’s expression hardened once more. “Then my sister's child…”

“...Would carry on the House Leonis line should you accept and have no intention of producing an heir to the House,” Regis finished. He sighed again, heart. “It really is a heavy burden. I have no doubt that you would require time to speak with Cera to gain her own thoughts and insights. Though the decision rests with you, her feelings and decisions are equally important to me.”

“Why didn’t you speak with her?” Cor questioned.

“I felt it wasn’t my place. The head of the House would be you should you accept, after all.” Regis made his thoughts sound so simple. Then he relaxed, going back into a somewhat slouched position in his chair. “Besides…I believe it best for her to have that discussion with you instead of hearing it from me. Though I am a king of my people and wish for their utmost wellbeing, meddling in family affairs does not befit me, wouldn’t you agree?”

Cor supposed Regis was right in a way. Still, that meant arranging a meeting with her at some point.

With a curt nod, Cor rose from his seat.

“... I'll speak with her…” Cor said. The weight of the decision still weighed heavily on his shoulders now that it was placed there. But…so long as Cera was okay with it, then he supposed he had no qualms. “I do believe having more access to the Crystal will likely be necessary against the Niflheim threat. I'll need time to get used to it if my sister approves of the arrangement.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

When Cor met with his sister, he felt a flicker of warmth to see her cheery disposition, though his face betrayed none of it. He noted with silent relief that she appeared in good health as she approached, her steps light despite the pregnancy. Stepping aside to pull out a chair for her at the table he had been waiting at, he motioned to it; something simple to ease her burden. After all, he knew that she must have had a difficult time during her stage in her pregnancy with little to no help back at home.

Cera was glowing. Clearly, she was keeping to whatever regimen she had at home to keep her appearance well kept. Her brown hair had been neatly pinned back out of her face, the rest of it secured in a loose Altissian braid.

“Keeping well?” Cor asked, his voice low so as to not disturb those around them. He took his seat once she was settled.

“Well enough,” Cera replied, a soft sigh escaping her lips. Her eyes darted from his hands, tightly clasped together, back up to his ever-serious expression. “And you? I can’t imagine you called me here just for a family reunion. You usually don't look so...troubled when it’s merely a casual outing.”

Of course Cera would see through him immediately. She always had a knack for reading between the lines, especially when it came to her brother.

A slow sigh escaped Cor as he looked down at his clasped hands.

Was this how Regis felt when he first approached Cor? The thought struck him with an uncomfortable familiarity -- sitting here, mirroring Regis's posture, burdened by a choice that seemed to weigh heavier with every breath. Cor might have laughed at the irony if the gravity of the moment was not weighing so heavily on his shoulders.

“King Regis spoke with me…” Cor began, his tongue suddenly feeling like sandpaper as he struggled to broach the subject. Should he just tear the bandage off quickly? There was little point in skirting around what needed to be said.

“And?” Cera prodded, reaching over to take up the menu at the table.

“He…wants to elevate my status to nobility…” Cor finally said. “Technically, our status. As he tells it, the Crystal doesn’t discriminate between those that share the bloodline. Should I become recognized by the Crystal, so will you. So will…your child.”

Cera’s lips parted, a look of disbelief settling on her features. She then moved the menu aside and folded her arms over the table, leaning forward as she did so. “So…what did you tell him?”

“I told him I’d speak with you,” Cor replied, voice steady, though a hint of weariness seeped into his words. He could feel fatigue creeping in, threatening to make him less patient than he intended. But he forced it down -- this was still meant to be a cordial conversation, even if Cera’s voice had taken on a bit of a sharper edge. “He believes your opinion matters just as much as mine since this decision will affect you too.”

“And what do you want?” Cera pressed. Her eyes locked onto his, searching.

“... I want to protect the Crown and its people as best as I can.”

Cera leaned back in her chair, one hand resting on the swell of her belly as she considered his response. The silence stretched between them like a taut string ready to snap. Finally, she asked, “Will having a title of nobility help with that? We’ve seen the elevated prowess of House Amicitia, House Chorus…all of them, really. Do you want what they have for yourself, Cor?”

“I find no shame in my capabilities if you don’t want it. That said…I see no downside to receiving such a boon,” Cor replied earnestly.

Cera held his gaze for a moment longer, her expression inscrutable, before finally nodding.

“… Then do it,” she said quietly. “Accept his offer of ennoblement.”

[little-lion-man-self-ships]

New F/Os!

These are the newest F/Os I'm adding to my list!

Damon Gant from Ace Attorney

Dick Gumshoe from Ace Attorney

Scar from Alien vs Predator (I had him as an F/O in the past but a Toxic friend made me remove him as an F/O)

Wolf from Alien vs Predator Requiem (also had him as an F/O in the past but the same Toxic friend made me take him off)

Gummigoo from The Amazing Digital Circus

Gladiolus Amicitia from Final Fantasy (Had him as an F/O in the past but I felt too self-conscious and removed him as an F/O)

Foxy from FNAF (Had him as an F/O in the past but Toxic friends made me remove him)

Kratos from God of War

Thor from God of War

Stolas from Helluva Boss

Tauro from Legend of Zelda TOTK

Tom Dupain from Miraculous Ladybug

Belos from Owl House (Had him as an F/O in the past but Toxic Friend made me remove him)

Feral Predator from Prey

Fugitive Predator from Predator (2018)

John Kramer from the Saw movies (Had him as an F/O in the past but Toxic Friend made me remove him)

Ketahn from The Spider's Mate Books

Bob Velseb from Spooky Month

Eddie Dear from Welcome Home

[jennytomlinson99]

Miraculum

Summary: Prompto is eight and a half months pregnant, and he goes into labour while Ardyn and Ignis are at the Citadel. His two alphas rush home, and they help Prompto deliver their child together.

Notes: Ardyn Lucis Caelum/Ignis Scientia/Prompto Argentum, Gladiolus Amicitia/Noctis Lucis Caelum, Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics, Alpha Ardyn, Alpha Gladio, Alpha Ignis, AU, Beta Noctis, Childbirth, FTM Prompto, Labor, Mpreg, Omega Prompto, Polyamory, Pregnant Prompto, Trans Male Prompto, etc.

Note: Prompto identifies as male, but he hasn't had any top or bottom surgery because he can't afford it and the Citadel doesn't cover gender affirming care with the insurance they offer to the Crownsguard. Also, this is my first FFXV fic, so please go easy on me.

*

"We'll be back soon, I promise. This is just a standard meeting with the council." Ardyn says before he presses a kiss to Prompto's lips. Prompto clings to him, but Ardyn forces himself to break the kiss. If he doesn't leave with Ignis soon, they're going to be late.

"Please don't go." Prompto's lip quivers as tears well up in his violet-blue eyes.

"I wish I could stay Prom, I really do, but they said the meeting was important. We have to go." Ardyn says sadly.

"But what if I—" Prompto starts to say, but Ardyn places his finger over his lips.

"Shh. You're gonna be ok, I promise. The baby's not due for another two weeks." Ardyn says as he caresses Prompto's cheek.

"O-okay. I-I love you." Prompto sniffles. At eight and a half months pregnant, his emotions were all over the place, and he can't help a tear from falling down his freckled cheek.

"We should be home in an hour or two, okay? I love you sunflower." Ignis walks over and gives Prompto a kiss.

"I love you too." Prompto says softly. He cries as Ardyn and Ignis leave, the house now feeling empty without his husbands.

*

Prompto groans as he gets up from the couch to grab something to eat, and he waddles down the hallway that leads to the kitchen. He's a little out of breath when he reaches the kitchen island, and he breathes deeply as he rubs his pregnant belly with one hand. He rests his other hand on the counter to ground himself.

His once skinny frame was long gone, now replaced with a large and prominent baby bump, and his almost non-existent breasts were now a B cup. He certainly hoped that his body would just 'bounce back' after he'd had the baby, but it was wishful thinking at this point. He also really hopes he can get some top surgery done after he doesn't have to breastfeed anymore.

As Prompto stands at the kitchen island, he feels a pain in his stomach. He gasps as he holds onto his stomach and does the breathing exercises he'd learned at his lamaze class. Doctor Gainsborough had told him that he'd start to experience Braxton Hicks contractions the closer he got to his due date, and this wasn't the first time he'd dealt with them.

"No, no, no, c'mon. Not now." Prompto pleads. He's not supposed to have the baby for another two weeks, but this pain feels different than the other Braxton Hicks contractions he'd had before. It hurts more, and he feels that something is wrong.

Prompto waddles back to the couch to grab his phone, and he speed dials Ardyn. The phone rings a few times before going to voicemail. Ardyn must've turned his phone on silent while they were in the meeting.

Fuck. Prompto thinks. Fucking council and their dumbass meetings. His anxiety rises as Ardyn's voicemail message plays through his phone.

"This is Ardyn Scientia-Caelum. I'm not available right now. Please leave a message and I'll get back to you as soon as I can~." Prompto feels a few tears falling down his cheeks when Ardyn doesn't pick up. The message tone beeps, and he struggles to find something to say.

"Ardyn, i-it's me. I think I'm in labor. I need you and Ignis to come home, please." Prompto says before hanging up. He decides to call Noctis next. Surely his best friend will answer him. Unfortunately, he gets the same response from the prince.

"You've reached Noct! Leave a message!"

"Dammit!" Prompto swears. He doesn't even bother to leave a message. He hangs up and calls Gladio, but Gladio doesn't pick up either.

"This is Gladio. Leave a message."

"What's the point of having a phone if you're not gonna fucking answer it?!" Prompto groans as he sits down on the couch. He dials Ardyn again.

"Pick up, pick up, pick up." Prompto chants. Ardyn's phone goes to voicemail again. "Ardyn, it's me again. Please, you gotta come home. I think the baby's coming." Prompto says worriedly before he hangs up.

Ignis. Ignis will pick up. Prompto thinks. He quickly dials the number. The phone rings a few times before also going to voicemail.

"You've reached Ignis Scientia-Caelum, royal advisor to Prince Noctis. I'm unavailable at the moment. Please leave a message after the beep."

"Gods dammit!" Prompto thinks. "Iggy, it's me. I think I'm in labor. Come home, please." Prompto says before hanging up.

*

Ignis and Ardyn are still in the meeting, and the councilmen are getting nowhere. All that's happening is constant bickering over what bills and laws they should or shouldn't keep, and if they should introduce new ones.

Ignis knows it's rude, but he can't help looking at his phone to check the time. His eyes widen when he sees a notification that he has three missed calls and seven messages from Prompto.

"Grand councilman, I do apologize, but I have to take a moment to call my pregnant husband," Ignis says as he stands up and walks over to the corner of the room. He leans against one of the pillars as he calls Prompto, and Ardyn follows him. "Prom, is everything alright darling?" Ignis asks.

"Iggy. Thank Astrals." Prompto says with relief. After trying to reach him and Ardyn for two hours, one of them finally answered.

"Prompto, what's wrong? You sound distressed dear." Ignis says, and Prompto starts to cry. He's so terrified in this moment, and he needs his alphas.

"I-Iggy, the baby's coming." Prompto sobs as he places his hand over his stomach. He's had five more contractions since the first one, but his water hasn't broken yet.

"Prompto, are you sure you're in labor?" Ignis says, and Ardyn's eyes widen in shock.

"Yes, Ignis. I've already had a few contractions." Prompto replies, and he hears Ardyn saying something in the background.

"Holy Astrals. How far apart are the contractions?" Ignis says. Ardyn continues speaking with one of the high council members in the background, and he notices that they seem a bit angry at their meeting being cut short.

"About twenty minutes." Prompto answers.

"Our child is more important! We're leaving!" Prompto hears Ardyn shout.

"Prompto, we'll be there soon." Ignis says. He pulls Ardyn away from the councilman before their argument can escalate further.

"O-okay. Please don't hang up." Prompto whimpers. More tears fall down his cheeks, and he sniffles.

"I'm right here darling. Did your water break already?" Ignis asks as he and Ardyn start walking down the corridor in the Citadel. They pass by the botanical gardens before reaching the elevator. Prompto always loved the gardens. They'd always find him there after their council meetings. He wasn't of royal status, so he always had to sit outside and wait until they were finished, and he'd taken a hobby in photographing the flora and fauna.

"No." Prompto says.

"Okay, that's good. We can figure out how many centimetres you are once we get home." Ignis says as they take the elevator down. Ardyn grabs the phone from him then.

"Prompto dear, I know you're scared, but it's gonna be okay. Just focus on your breathing. We're leaving right now." Ardyn says. They quickly reach his red Vixen, and once he and Ignis are buckled in, he speeds off to their house. Ardyn hands the phone back to Ignis, and he puts it on speaker.

"Prompto, can you hear me?" Ignis asks.

"Yeah. I can hear you. How far away are you?" Prompto says.

"Considering that Ardyn's speeding, I'd say about ten minutes. I just hope we don't get pulled over." Ignis replies. He places his hand on Ardyn's shoulder, trying to calm the older male.

"The Crownsguard and Glaives know better than to pull over a royal." Ardyn quips as he takes a sharp right.

*

A few minutes later, Prompto hears Ardyn's car pulling into the driveway. He feels another contraction start, and he yelps in pain. He grabs onto his stomach and breathes deeply as the contraction ripples through his body.

"Prompto!" Ignis gasps as he walks inside with Ardyn. They quickly make their way over to their husband.

"Y-you made it. Agh!" Prompto groans, and he reaches for Ignis' hand. He squeezes it as Ardyn sits down next to him and rubs his shoulder.

"Shh. You're ok. We're right here honey. Just breathe." Ardyn says as the contraction passes. Prompto catches his breath and he leans against Ardyn's chest.

"Ardyn, help him undress. I need to check your progress Prompto." Prompto nods, and Ardyn helps him stand. Ardyn pulls his joggers and underwear down for him as Ignis takes the first aid kit out of the hall closet. He sanitizes his hands before putting on some medical gloves and coating two of his fingers with lube.

"Are you good baby?" Ardyn says after he's helped Prompto. He's almost bare naked now, and he blushes a bit. It's not the first time Ignis and Ardyn have seen him like this, but he can't help feeling self conscious.

Prompto nods in response, and he tenses a bit when he feels Ignis' fingers inside him. His body is preparing to birth their child, and everything hurts. He grunts a bit at the feeling.

"Sorry darling. This will only take a few seconds," Ignis says, and Prompto feels his fingers spread a bit. He soon feels Ignis' fingers leave his opening, and he lets out a breath that he didn't know he was holding in. "Okay, you're at four centimetres. Did you want to stay out here, or should we move to the bedroom?"

"I'd rather be in the bed. It's more comfortable." Prompto says.

"Alright, we'll move to the bedroom." Ignis says. Ardyn helps Prompto get up, and they head down the hall to their master bedroom.

*

Twenty minutes later, Prompto has another contraction. "Ardyn, Ignis!" Prompto yells, and Ardyn comes into their room and sits down on their bed.

"I'm here, sunshine. Ignis is in the kitchen grabbing you some ice." Ardyn runs his fingers through Prompto's golden locks as he breathes through the contraction.

"I'm here," Ignis enters the room with a plastic cup of ice. "How are you feeling?"

"Like my insides are being ripped apart." Prompto groans.

"It'll pass dear. Remember to breathe." Ignis coaches as Prompto squeezes his hand.

"Ugh. This sucks. Why does labor have to hurt so much?" Prompto huffs after the contraction has finished.

"I'm sorry darling. I wish there was something we could do." Ignis says as he sits down on the bed.

"All that matters is that you're here. The first two hours by myself were so scary." Prompto says as he leans his head on Ignis' shoulder.

"I'm so sorry dear. We should've been here." Ardyn apologizes.

"It's not your fault. Baby decided to come a couple weeks earlier," Prompto says. "I will be giving the grand councilman a stern talking to though. Alphas need parental leave too, dammit." Ignis laughs softly.

"Yes. They really need to add that." Ignis agrees.

*

A couple hours later...

"Prompto, would you like to walk around a bit? It should help your labor progress easier." Ignis asks. They've been laying in bed while Prompto goes through his contractions, and he can tell that the blonde is getting restless.

"Gods, yes. I need to stretch my legs." Prompto replies, and Ignis helps him off the bed. Ardyn follows close behind them as they head to the living room.

"Did you want to try eating something?" Ardyn asks as he places his hand on Prompto's back.

"I'm okay for now." Prompto replies. He places his right hand on his stomach, and Ignis holds his left while Ardyn rests his hand on his shoulder.

They walk around the room for a while, but nothing changes. Prompto's contractions are still twenty minutes apart, and he starts to get frustrated as the fifth hour rolls by.

"How long is this gonna take?" Prompto whines as he leans his head on Ardyn's shoulder.

"There's no way to know for sure. It's different for everyone, dear. Most first time parents have said that their first child usually takes about twelve to eighteen hours to arrive." Ardyn says.

"Eighteen hours?! I don't want to be in labor for that long! I just wanna meet our baby." Prompto cries.

"We do too darling. They'll be here soon. Either later today or tomorrow, we don't know. They'll come on their own time." Ignis says as he rubs his hand up and down Prompto's arm.

"I'm tired of walking. I wanna lay down." Prompto says.

"Back to the room then." Ignis says.

*

A few more hours go by, and Prompto's still in labor with barely any changes.

"Prompto, I think I should check you again." Ignis says as he snaps a pair of gloves on.

"You need help sweetpea?" Ardyn asks. He's laying down on their king sized bed next to Prompto, idly running his fingers through the blonde's hair.

"Yeah. Help me sit up please." Prompto says, and Ardyn gives him a hand. He sits up straight, and Ignis spreads his legs open before pressing two fingers inside of him to check his dilation. It's quicker than last time, and Prompto lays back down when Ignis is finished.

"You're five centimetres now dear." Ignis informs the omega.

"Seriously? It's been nine hours, and I'm only five centimetres?! This fucking sucks!" Prompto groans.

"You wanna walk around again?" Ignis asks as he tosses the blue gloves into the trash.

"No. Actually, yeah," Prompto responds. Ignis and Ardyn grab each of his hands, and they help Prompto stand. Prompto feels a sudden pressure when he gets up, and then a clear liquid runs down his legs. "I think my water just broke." Prompto says as he looks down at the hardwood floor where a puddle is forming.

"I'll get something to clean it up with. Don't move." Ignis says as he walks over to the master bathroom. He quickly returns with a white towel, and he kneels down to wipe up the puddle.

"We should change your clothes." Ardyn says as Prompto looks up at him nervously.

"Y-yeah." Prompto says softly. Ardyn pulls off his pants and underwear, and he steps out of them. Ardyn hands Prompto's clothes to Ignis after he's cleaned up the puddle, and he puts them in the laundry basket.

"Do you wanna put on another pair of pants, or are you good like this?" Ignis asks.

"Just some underwear, please." Prompto answers, and Ignis takes a pair of boxers out of the dresser before handing them to Ardyn. Ardyn quickly helps Prompto into them before they head to the hallway.

"Okay, now that your water's broken, things should start moving a bit faster." Ignis says as Prompto starts taking laps around the living room again.

"Gods, I hope so. Ignis, I—agh, fuck! Fuck, it hurts so bad!" Prompto grunts as another contraction courses through him, and he grips tightly onto his lovers' hands.

"Breathe, darling." Ignis says.

"I know, Ignis!" Prompto shouts, and he immediately regrets it. "Iggy, I-I'm sorry."

"It's ok. You're in pain darling. We won't take anything to heart, right Ardyn?" Ignis says.

"Of course not. Would you like to sit down dearest?" Ardyn says as Prompto's contraction finishes. He rubs his husband's back a little, trying to help ease his pain.

"Yeah. My feet hurt." Prompto says, and he waddles over to the couch. He sits down slowly, and Ardyn sits down as well. Ignis decides to sit on the floor.

"Prom, you're doing so well." Ignis says as he brings Prompto's hand up to his lips and kisses it.

"Thanks Iggy." Prompto breathes out. He's been in labor for eleven and a half hours now, and his face sure shows it. His blonde hair and freckled cheeks are covered in sweat, and he knows he looks like a downright mess.

"Prompto darling, would you like something to drink?" Ignis asks the omega.

"Sure. Water is fine." Prompto replies, and Ignis stands up to head to the kitchen.

"Ardyn, care for an Ebony?"

"Sure. Thank you love." Ardyn replies. Ignis grabs two cans of Ebony from the fridge, and then a water bottle for Prompto.

"Here we are. Some water for you, and Ebony for us." Ignis says as he sits down next to Ardyn. He hands the omega a water bottle, and then he hands a can of Ebony to Ardyn.

"Thank you sweetcheeks." Ardyn says. He kisses Ignis' pink lips softly before pulling away.

"Tis my pleasure." Ignis says, and Prompto smiles at his two alphas. He's usually the center of their affection, but he loves when they have a moment of their own.

"So cute." Prompto whispers. Ardyn and Ignis look at him, and they both blush.

"You think so? You're pretty cute too." Ardyn says before kissing Prompto's cheek. Prompto tenses up a few seconds later, and he doubles over in pain, gripping his stomach. He cries out and grabs Ardyn's hand.

"Another one?" Ignis asks, and Prompto nods. He watches Prompto's face scrunch up in pain as the contraction rolls through his body, and he places a comforting hand on the blonde's knee.

Prompto whimpers as the pain subsides, and he presses his face into Ardyn's chest, a few tears falling down his cheeks.

"It's okay. You're gonna be okay." Ardyn soothes as he rubs Prompto's aching back.

"I just want it to be over!" Prompto sobs as he clutches Ardyn's shirt. Ignis' heart breaks at seeing Prompto in so much pain, but he knows it will all be worth it in the end.

"Prom, look at me honey," Ignis says, and the blonde turns to look at him with red rimmed eyes and tear stained cheeks. "You're doing so well sweetheart. You're so strong, and I'm so proud of you." Ignis comforts the omega, and Prompto wipes away his tears with the back of his hand.

Prompto sniffles. "Y-you really mean that?"

"I do darling. Every word of it." Ignis replies. He kisses Prompto softly.

"Ignis is right. You're doing great dearest." Ardyn chimes in, and he rubs the back of Prompto's hand with his thumb. Prompto leans his head on Ardyn's chest, and he sighs as Ardyn plays with his hair.

*

Three more hours go by, and Prompto's now seven centimetres dilated. His contractions are still twenty minutes apart, with each of them lasting about thirty seconds. Prompto's opted to laying down on their bed again, and Ardyn and Ignis are laying down on either side of him.

"You're so beautiful Prompto. I'm gonna miss seeing you pregnant with our little one." Ardyn says as he traces little circles on Prompto's baby bump.

"Maybe we can have another one in a few years." Ignis says. He's propped up next to Prompto, his hand resting on his cheek.

"Mm, maybe. But this hurts so much, you have no idea," Prompto says. He tries to sit up a little, and Ignis helps him. He's then hit with a contraction, and he whimpers. "Oh, fuck! Fucking astrals, fuck!" Prompto yells, and Ignis offers him his hand. He squeezes Ignis' hand tightly, and he loosens his grip as the pain starts to lessen.

"That was ten minutes. They're getting closer." Ignis says as he looks at the timer on his phone.

"Stronger too. That one really hurt." Prompto breathes deeply, and he places his hand on his baby bump.

"One through ten, how bad was it?" Ardyn asks.

"S-seven. Oh, gods." Prompto says as he feels a wave of nausea come over him.

"Prompto? You're looking a bit pale." Ignis says worriedly.

"Think I'm gonna be sick." Prompto says with a groan, and Ignis places a rubbish bin in front of him. He throws up into it, and his alphas share a concerned look. Prompto's morning sickness was quite bad in the first trimester of his pregnancy, and they didn't expect him to get sick during labor.

"It's alright Prom. Just let it out." Ignis says as he places a hand on Prompto's shoulder.

"Ugh. That was horrible." Prompto says after he feels that he's finished puking his guts out. Ignis places the rubbish bin on the floor nearby in case they need it again.

"Here darling. Drink some water." Ignis hands Prompto a water bottle. Prompto graciously takes the water, and he takes a few sips before handing it back to Ignis.

"Thanks Iggy. Ardyn, can you take off my bra? I'm hot." Prompto requests as he wipes his mouth.

"Sure baby." Ardyn replies. He unlatches the clasps on the back of Prompto's bra, and the omega breathes a sigh of relief. He absolutely hates wearing bras, but they're unfortunately necessary now that his breasts have gotten bigger and wearing a binder isn't possible. It'll be much better when he can get his top surgery and have them removed.

"Thank you. Kisses?" Prompto says, puckering his lips. Ardyn laughs softly before cupping Prompto's cheek with one hand and giving him a chaste kiss on the lips.

"Mm. You taste good." Prompto says after he pulls away from the kiss. He then leans over and kisses Ignis as well.

"Prompto, what's got you so worked up?" Ignis asks.

"Nothing. I just love you guys." Prompto says. He grabs a pillow from behind him and places it between his legs. He repositions himself so that he's sitting native style.

"I love you too." Ardyn and Ignis say at the same time, and Prompto smiles. He couldn't have asked for better husbands.

*

"Iggy, make it stop!" Prompto cries out. He grips onto Ignis' arm tightly as he goes through the most painful contraction yet.

"Shh...it's alright darling. You're doing so well. Just breathe." Ardyn says softly.

"Easy for you to say! You aren't being torn in half!" Prompto yells. He collapses onto the pillows behind him with a groan as the pain subsides.

Ardyn sighs as he sits down on the bed by Prompto's feet. Prompto's been in labor for almost fourteen hours, and he can tell that it's getting to him. Ardyn and Ignis are tired as well, but they certainly won't tell Prompto that unless they want profanities screamed at them.

"Prompto, I think I should check your dilation again. It's been a few hours and I'd like to see how you're progressing." Ignis says as he stands up.

"Okay." Prompto says, a little out of breath. His contractions are five minutes apart now, with each of them lasting about a minute. He barely has time to breathe before the next one arrives.

"Darling, you're ten centimetres. It's time to start pushing." Ignis announces.

"Finally." Prompto says.

"Ardyn, I want you to sit behind Prompto and let him lean against your chest. It'll help give him some leverage," Ignis says. Ardyn nods, and he shifts himself and Prompto until they're in the aforementioned position. "Prom, push on your next contraction, okay? You've got this." Ignis instructs.

It isn't long before Prompto's hit with another contraction, and he bears down, gripping onto Ardyn's forearms. He groans as the contraction works through him, and he feels the baby moving slightly lower.

"Good Prompto, good. Take a breather and push again." Ignis says from where he's situated between Prompto's legs.

"Agh! Shit, shit, shit!" Prompto yells as he pushes again, the pain returning tenfold.

"You're doing so good Prompto." Ardyn whispers as he brushes some of Prompto's hair behind his ear. Prompto nods weakly, and he grips tightly onto Ardyn as he pushes again.

They go through the routine for about ten minutes, and Prompto falls back against Ardyn's chest as another contraction finishes.

"Iggy, I can't do this anymore." Prompto says, exhausted from pushing. Tears fall down his cheeks, and he presses his face into Ardyn's chest as he sobs from the pain.

"Prompto, I know you're tired honey, but you're almost there. It should only take a few more pushes." Ignis says. He's starting to see part of the baby's head.

"O-okay." Prompto stutters. He grits his teeth as he pushes again, and he accidentally scratches Ardyn's arms, but not hard enough to draw blood.

"The head's coming darling! You're doing great!" Ignis announces.

"F-fuck! Holy six!" Prompto groans. "Gods, it burns!"

"Breathe Prompto." Ardyn says as he rubs the blonde's arm soothingly.

"The baby's crowning! Just breathe through this part, it'll prevent you from tearing." Ignis says. He looks up at Prompto, and he can tell how tired he is. His hair is matted, he's sweating profusely, and he looks like he could really use a nap after everything is over.

"Oh, gods. Are we almost there? I'm so tired." Prompto says as he closes his eyes briefly.

"The head's almost out, Prom. You're in the home stretch, don't tap out yet." Ignis says as he taps Prompto's leg in an attempt to keep him awake.

"I-I'm okay, I'm fine." Prompto says weakly. He pushes again, and he feels the baby's head emerge.

"Head's out now darling. A few more pushes should do it. I just have to check for the cord." Ignis says. He moves his hands towards the baby's neck, checking to see if the umbilical cord is wrapped around it. Once he's made sure everything is good, he gives Prompto a thumbs up.

Prompto pushes again on the next contraction, and he feels the shoulders start to slip out. He moans in pain, and Ignis places his hands under the baby's head.

"One more push Prom!" Ignis encourages. Prompto gives one final push, and the baby slips out and into Ignis' hands. Ignis clears the baby's airways with the suction bulb he'd kept in the nearby kit they made for the birth, and their child lets out a cry shortly after.

"Prompto, we have a daughter." Ignis says happily. He then clamps the umbilical cord before handing their baby over to Prompto.

"Oh my gods. She's beautiful," Prompto says. "Hi honey. I'm your daddy." Prompto whispers as he holds his newborn child in his arms, and a few happy tears run down his cheeks.

"Ardyn, she looks like you a bit." Ignis says as he walks over with sterile scissors. He and Ardyn cut the cord together, and then Ignis sits down on the bed next to Prompto.

"Aw, she does. She's got my eyes." Ardyn says with a smile. He was hoping that if the baby was his that she'd at least inherit one thing from him. The rest of her face is all Prompto's features, and her hair is blonde too.

"Are we still going with the name you chose?" Ignis asks as he caresses their daughter's cheek.

"Yeah. Freya Liv." Prompto says.

"I'm gonna get her cleaned up. I'll be right back." Ignis says as he picks up their daughter. He carries her over to the bathroom sink to wash her off.

Prompto looks up at Ardyn as Ignis walks away with Freya, and Ardyn smiles at him.

"We really made a baby. She's actually here." Prompto says, astonished.

"You did amazing dearest. We're so proud of you." Ardyn says. He leans down to kiss the blonde's forehead.

*

Ignis comes back in the room a few minutes later, and he sits down on the bed with Freya in his arms.

"Here she is." Ignis says as he hands Freya over to Prompto.

"She's so tiny." Prompto comments. He's already delivered the afterbirth, and now he's resting in Ardyn's arms.

"She'll grow up big and strong though, won't you angel?" Ignis coos at Freya. She just looks up at him with her big amber eyes, and then she yawns.

"I think she's getting sleepy." Ardyn says.

"I guess being born is just as tiring as giving birth." Prompto says.

"Hello little one, I'm your dad," Ardyn smiles at his firstborn daughter, and he gasps when she grabs hold of his pointer finger with her little hand. Ignis wipes away a tear from Ardyn's face, and Ardyn looks up at him. He hadn't even realized that he was crying. "She's really here Ignis. We have a daughter."

"I know. She's perfect." Ignis laughs softly, his green eyes also brimming with tears. Freya takes that moment to let out a shrill cry, and the three men are startled by her sudden outburst.

"She's probably hungry." Prompto says.

"Guide her to you, Prompto. She might need help." Ignis advises.

"Okay, here we go baby," Prompto says before he moves Freya's head lightly until her mouth is near his chest. She easily latches on to his nipple, and she begins to feed from Prompto. "Is that good, sweetpea? Daddy's got plenty for you." Prompto says with a soft laugh.

Freya feeds from Prompto's chest for a few minutes, and she releases once she's had her fill. Prompto lifts her up and rubs her back until she lets out a small burp.

"That's my girl." Prompto says. He repositions Freya, and he rocks her softly until she falls asleep in his arms.

"We should let her sleep. You need to rest as well Prom." Ignis says. He carefully lifts Freya out of Prompto's arms and places her in the bassinet near their bed.

Ignis' phone vibrates in his pocket a few minutes later. He looks at the caller ID to see that it's Noct. "Noct, how are you?" Ignis says as he answers the phone.

"Shouldn't I be asking you that Specs? Did Prom have the baby yet?" Noctis says as Gladio climbs onto the bed, sitting next to him.

"Yes. A little girl." Ignis replies.

"Congratulations to you three. What's her name?" Gladio speaks up.

"Freya Liv. She's got Ardyn's eyes, but the rest of her is all Prompto. Blonde hair and freckles included." Ignis says as he places his arm around Prompto's shoulder.

"Is that Noct?" Prompto says tiredly. Ignis nods, and Prompto holds his hand out for the phone.

"Hold on a second Gladio, Prompto wants to talk to you and Noct." Ignis says before passing the phone over.

"Hey guys." Prompto says softly.

"Hey Prompto. Congrats on the baby. How is she?" Noctis asks.

"I fed her earlier. She's asleep." Prompto says with a yawn.

"You should get some sleep too Blondie. You sound exhausted." Gladio says in concern.

"Yeah, I will. I'll talk to you guys later." Prompto says. He hands the phone back to Ignis before shutting his eyes and getting into a comfortable position to fall asleep.

"Would you two like to speak with Ardyn? He's here too." Ignis says as he places the phone between his chin and his shoulder.

"I don't see why not. He's the baby's father too." Noctis replies.

"Ardyn, it's Noct and Gladio." Ignis says as he passes the phone to his red-violet haired husband.

"To what do I owe the pleasure, your highness?" Ardyn drawls teasingly.

"Ignis says the baby's here. Congrats on your daughter." Noctis says.

"Thank you. Prompto did very well. He and Freya are resting now." Ardyn says as he looks over at Freya. She's still fast asleep in her bassinet.

"I'm sure you and Ignis're tired as well." Gladio says.

"Yea. We've all been up since seven this morning. You're welcome to come by tomorrow if Prompto's up for visitors." Ardyn says.

"We probably will. Goodnight guys." Noctis says before hanging up.

"It's time we get some well needed rest too Ignis. C'mere love," Ardyn says as he brings Ignis over to him. He kisses the brunette's lips. "I love you so much."

"I love you too. See you in the morning." Ignis says as he moves over to the right side of the bed. He switches off the bedside lamp before snuggling Prompto, breathing in the omega's sweet scent. Ardyn also snuggles Prompto from the other side of him, and they drift off to sleep. Nothing could be better than this.

[awlwren-writes]

OC ask game: 16, 18, 28 for Daphne (if you want)

For those who don't know, Daphne is Nyx's mom's sister and Clarus's wife in our Uncle Clarus AU!

I appreciate the chance to flesh her out some more!

16. do they have any pets? what do they call their pets?

She didn't before now, but now I'm gonna say she was sent with a pair of black and white coeurlaki (what I call the tiny tame coeurls seen in the Galahd concept art) that she named Nox and Luna as a kind of tease to her nephew and niece. Nox is called "Knocks" by everyone in Insomnia, though, as that's her favorite trick, and Luna is "Lookie Loo" and the like, because she's so curious. It started a brief trend in Insomnia for the cats, but most realized quickly that it takes too much energy to train them when they're kittens to not shock people or electronics. Daphne mainly gets away with it because she's used to training them and the Amicitia house is both large and old enough they can run around without hurting much.

Gladio does not remember that Luna and Nox are the coeurlakis' real name, and so never makes the connection with Lunafreya and Noctis, though Noctis does because he asked Daphne once about their names, and it makes him more determined to befriend them and give them treats.

18. their opinion on lying, stealing, and killing?

Putting a cut, because of course I always get long on this question...

She's generally against all three, but willing to make exceptions when it comes to protecting the people she loves.

She's come to accept that a little bit of social lying is normal in Insomnia, and is willing to pass along some white lies to help Clarus's operations or to cover for him or the kids if they have to duck out for something, but generally frank honesty is her go-to, especially one on one. She accepts that not everyone feels the same way, but she keeps track of lies she catches and slowly freezes out the habitual liars unless she has figured out a reason for the lies. (Lying about being abused, for instance, is unfortunate but understandable, and she often gives signals that she knows you're lying, but she doesn't hold them against people the same way. At least not after the first one, when she realized with Clarus's help what the cost was. Wisdom sometimes doesn't come easily. Abuse happens in Galahd as well, of course, but she knew fewer people there and generally knew them better, and that made spotting it and dealing with it different.)

Stealing is divided into two types: stealing from within the group and from enemies. Stealing from within the group is either an act of hatred/retribution against someone else or part of community sharing, where things just circulate as needed, especially within a cohort. You just go gather the tupperware that accumulated at your friend's house from the parties when you run low, that sort of thing. Sometimes you leave a riddle teasing them, and that can start decades long jokes and trying to figure out who it was. Stealing from enemies is just part of survival, and usually a demonstration of cleverness. Alternative warfare. In-cohort stealing/sharing gets applied in Insomnia as sharing information, equipment, and jewelry, etc with Aulea and Regis and Cor (if possible). Revenge/Enemy stealing gets applied to getting funding for the Crownsguard and worthy causes from other groups who also want the funding.

Killing beasts and food animals is normal, if sometimes difficult. Killing humans is something she's been able to avoid. She considers defense as generally a good excuse, if it has to happen, and she thinks she would kill for her kids or her family, but she's glad she doesn't really have to think about that much in Insomnia. It's safe, after all. She knows Clarus has killed, and that even though he'd do it again it bothers him, which sort of solidifies her opinion.

28. how do they show that they care about someone? how do they express that they don't like someone?

Daphne is a defender. She defends her loved ones from teasing, from ignorance, from loneliness or feelings of inadequacy. She's always right there, beside or in front of you, when she sees you struggling. She's had to learn to blunt that or do it indirectly in Insomnia, but she's adaptable. For her marriage, this usually takes the form of fighting on the fronts Clarus can't, because he's only one person.

She's also definitely the feeding friend. Food solves a multitude of problems. She doesn't always make the food herself, but she makes sure you get what you need.

For acute offenses, she'll tell you directly what she didn't like and why. If she just doesn't like you and can afford to, she freezes you out. You get no information about her or her family. She ignores your jokes and offered points of connection. She is more willing to defend others against you, even if she doesn't know them, she assumes you probably deserve it. If she can't do this because of politics, she just sabotages whatever of yours she can get away with, sometimes quite pettily. She does try to account for the splash damage, though.

Okay! Not sure how much of that made sense, but it feels right so I'm sticking with it. Daphne is very brave and sure of herself, and even though those traits don't always work out well for her in Insomnia, she learns quickly. She does her best to support her friends and family by fighting for them where she can with what weapons she has. She is also a little bit of a math nerd and is good at accounting and following number trails and uses that to her advantage, especially to balance her tendency toward bluntness.

I think Iris tried to go the proper lady, indirect action route partially because she saw that her mother struggled when she was blunt and had more success being sneaky, and partially to reflect well on her father, who leans into protocol as a general rule, especially after her mother died. She does grow to be more like her mother as she gets older, though, for good or for ill.

Gladio followed Daphne's footsteps of blunt communication with important people in his life (ie Noctis) and just...working around people who don't seem to want to cooperate (also Noctis) but as a younger kid didn't get that bluntness needs kindness as well to temper it, and working around people is for enemies rather than allies, and by the time he learned that had damaged his relationship with Noctis somewhat. As they get older, the boys start to work it out, though. Gladio got his love of reading from his dad, but he enjoyed sitting with his mom while she poured over ledgers, muttering to herself, and reading beside her, and she learned a bit of literature analysis to help him tear the stories apart for what he liked and didn't like, because it was where she could meet him on reading.

Thanks for letting me ramble. I really do enjoy Uncle Clarus, and look forward to writing more of it with you!

[savage-rhi]

I loved the first prompto/gladio you posted!!! Staying on the angst train could we get a already dating prompto and gladio and he calls galdio at like 3am and he sounds really upset and like he's gonna khs you can choose how it ends but could you use the prompt “ i can’t do this. ”

Thank you for the compliment! I hope this is to your liking! 💙

Gladio was the kind of man who didn't hesitate to take action. Especially in the face of danger. Being the future kings shield, he had to be decisive even if his actions resulted in his own undoing. Clarus, his father, had taught him since childhood how to run with the fires of war, and never against. " Amicitia's never run from danger..." was an unofficial motto of his house. Gladio took the saying to heart then as he did now; even while his own pulse quaked while listening to Prompto's confessions.

Gods, it was heavy. To Gladio, it was heavier than the weapons he carried and mightier than the punches he had taken on behalf of all he had loved. Words couldn't touch what he was experiencing, and the anger that coincided. Gladio wasn't angry at Prompto. No, he was mad at himself. Mad that he didn't see the signs until now that there was something wrong.

Prompto had always been a cheerful man. Someone who brought life to any group or person who'd come his way. Gladio never believed in social butterflies until he had met him. It was one of the many reasons why his fondness for Prompto grew and led to their current relationship. The image of this wonderful person he loved had been stripped into shadows of his own making. Gladio wish he had known how miserable Prompto was. Maybe if he had paid more attention, and didn't assume everything was alright, this conversation could've transpired long ago.

"I can't do this." Prompto said over the phone, rubbing his forehead while he silently cried.

"What do you mean by that?" Gladio swallowed. He already knew the answer, yet his body still braced itself.

"All these feelings," Prompto sighed bitterly. "I've tried Gladio. I've tried for so long to handle it on my own. I tried talking to Ignis and Noct about it too but---they don't get it. No one does. Maybe you, but I know I unloaded onto ya, and I'm sorry. I don't want to be a burden to anyone. Especially the guys and you."

"You don't owe me a damn thing," Gladio sighed. He rubbed his eyes, wanting nothing more than to be at Prompto's side instead of being stuck at home. "You and I will figure this out together. I can promise you that."

"How do you know it will work?" Prompto murmured.

Gladio was quiet for a time. If there was one thing he lacked in, it was emotional tact. And right now, Gladio knew he needed to be focused all the way for Prompto's sake.

"Because I know us," Gladio's voice softened. He closed his eyes, and began to reminiscence. Memories of Prompto and him helping out one another during dangerous times and feats sprung up. Gladio's eyes began to water, remembering that despite staring death in the face, Prompto was always smiling. There was never a dull moment with him. Gladio couldn't imagine that light being snuffed away, by Prompto's own hand no less.

"Gladio?"

Prompto's quiet voice broke Gladio out of his thoughts and he quickly fell back onto the road he had begun to pave with his words.

"I know we are capable of running through hell together. You just gotta promise me you'll stick around and let me show you we can do anything."

There was a long pause that had Gladio wondering if perhaps he had screwed up. He shot up from bed, ready to throw on his clothes and run for the nearest medic. It was only when he heard Prompto chuckle sadly did he calm.

"And here I thought Iggy was the pep talk master."

Gladio sighed. He shook his head and carded a hand through his hair. Relief began to wash over him, having heard a rising hope in Prompto's voice.

"What can I say? The guy is inspirational." Gladio mused. "I'll come over tonight."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah."

"What about everything I said?"

"We'll tackle it come morning. I'll help you research some therapists in the city. We got this, Prompt. I gotcha. Always have, always will."

Gladio looked over to his clock. It was approaching 3am. He could catch a late bus if he planned it right. Even if he missed the ride, Gladio knew it wouldn't stop him from rushing into the fire of Prompto's own misery, and pulling him back from the flames.

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