#ignis fluff week

[shy-urban-hobbit]

Lambert/Aiden bath time fluff!!

"Are you trying to fucking drown yourself or something?" Lambert called out as he drew the curtains and cast igni on the candles dotted around the room.

"The obnoxiously cheerful "Nope." He got in reply from behind the partition didn't help his mood in the least. Aiden had claimed the bath as soon as it had been filled and the sun was just kissing the horizon. Night had fully fallen and he had yet to vacate it.

He stomped over and poked his head around the wooden screen erected to give some semblance of privacy. Aiden gave off a subtle scent of crushed grass happiness, arms resting on the edge and a few steam dampened curls hanging in his face as he looked up at him, "Yes, Pup?"

"You have any idea how long you've been in here? The water's going to be stone cold before you're done."

"Hmmm, you're right. If only we had some way to conveniently reheat it." Aiden raised an eyebrow and flicked his fingers loosely in the sign for igni, "It's large enough for two, you could always join me instead of standing there bitching. Just a thought." He added with a shrug before leaning his head back against the edge of the tub and closing his eyes, the tip of a finger swirling the water lazily.

He expected Aiden to get some degree of annoyed when he situated himself at the opposite end of the tub - for interrupting his soak again if nothing else - instead the Cat barely cracked an eye open to glance at him as the water (which Aiden had made it a little warmer than Lambert preferred, but not uncomfortably so) was disturbed before closing it again and wordlessly shifting his legs to one side to give the other a little more room whilst Lambert sat with his own slightly bent, knees poking out just above the water and back straight, not quite as at ease in his surroundings as the other.

He huffed as he spotted the wash cloth and soap still sat on the little table and bone dry, "You still haven't even washed yet. What the fuck have you been doing?"

Another shrug, "You got somewhere you need to be? Just relax and enjoy it while you can, fuck knows when we'll get another chance."

Lambert said nothing, deciding to make a point of wetting the cloth and lathering the soap despite the other not even looking at him. Sure, he'd stay with his brothers and relax in the hot springs but that was different. That was home. Out on The Path alone, lingering on any task that left him vulnerable for extended periods made him twitchy. Only - he glanced over at Aiden as he ran the cloth over his arms - he wasn't exactly travelling alone anymore, was he?

He was pulled from his thoughts by something tapping him on the shoulder. Looking down he saw a dark skinned foot resting there, its owner staring at him with wide, hopeful eyes as he tilted his head at the cloth and soap Lambert was still holding. "...Really?" He asked dryly.

Aiden gave a shit eating grin in response, "You're the one who said about me not having washed yet."

He made a show of grumbling as he gently grasped the others ankle and bought his foot down in front of him, Aiden letting out a happy noise and starting to faintly purr at having gotten his way. Lambert was almost tempted to give a good yank and send the other under the surface but thought better of it knowing how Aiden would probably retaliate (one of them had ended up coming out of the river half drowned more than once thanks to rough-housing that had gotten slightly out of hand).

He ran the cloth over his leg, making an effort to not be as rough as when he was washing himself and being particularly mindful of the fresh scar on Aiden's calf, a gift from an aracha which was only a week old and still raised and tender looking. If he ended up lingering on it a little, that was nobody else's business.

It was as he leaned forwards to better reach Aiden's thigh that he was halted by him gently pulling his ankle free of Lambert's lax grip and placing his foot to Lambert's chest, gently pushing until his back was pressed against the tub, the water lapping around his biceps now that he was almost fully reclined. Aiden shifted, following the motion in a move almost as liquid as the water surrounding them until they were pressed together, his hands resting on Lambert's shoulders and their legs slotted together.

"Aiden?"

Aiden said nothing, smile amused and eyes fond before moving in for a kiss, one of his hands moving from Lambert's shoulder to cup his jaw at the Wolf's pleased rumble which followed the quick, lemon sharp burst of surprise in his scent.

" 'Lo." Aiden said before settling his weight fully against the other and tucking his head into the crook of Lambert's neck.

"Hi." Lambert's arms wrapped themselves around his Cats back, idly tracing a couple of the scars there as Aiden renewed his purring. A few minutes passed and he started to feel something close to content as he cast igni again, near weightless in the water with his lover in his arms.

"...Aiden?"

"Hmm?" He responded, sounded like he was half asleep.

"How much of this did you plan?"

"Does it matter?"

Lambert decided it didn't as he closed his own eyes, figuring he had a few more minutes before he had to contend with dragging a sleepy Cat out of the water and into bed.

[viviennevermillion]

we just now got the feeling that we're meeting for the first time

note: loosely based on the vibes of the song for the first time by the script. starts with an argument. reader and leona both are pretty harsh here but they'll get there eventually. ♡ this took me two days and idk what possessed me but I really like how this fic turned out and I appreciate comments or asks about it. ♡

contains: leona kingscholar x gn!reader, relationship development, angst to fluff, fighting and making up, bonding experiences

word count: 7.6k words

warnings: argument, leona's crippling depression, some hurtful things have been said

dark content creators & consumers do not interact

It was the middle of the winter holidays and Night Raven College was probably as quiet as it could be. You had left behind the festivities of late December and for now you decided to take some time to focus on yourself and rest up before school would resume in about a week. On a particularly cold Friday evening you had made yourself some pasta for dinner and laid down in bed after putting away the dishes. The night sky was clearer tonight than it had been for a while and your room was lit up only by the stars and the dim light of the magical ignis fatuus lamp on your nightstand. You took out your phone and checked the messages your friends had left you; keeping you updated on the presents they had received and the activities they engaged in during their well-deserved vacation. 

You didn’t know if it was just a whim or the fact that you may or may not have missed a certain someone…but you eventually decided to reach out to Leona to check up on him. You remembered how annoyed he had sounded when you saw him leave for his homeland through the dark mirror. It was no secret that the second prince of Sunset Savannah was anything but keen on going back to the palace over the winter holidays. His abrasive behavior was quite off-putting sometimes and you had to admit it made you hesitate sometimes to reach out to him even though you wanted to. You were long past the point of considering Leona your friend. His perspective on the matter, however? A mystery to you. 

It could just be that you were a nuisance to him. That he didn’t necessarily dislike you but rather had you minding your own business instead. Or maybe that was just the way he was. You found him hard to read sometimes; never knowing whether a question would get you a snarky comment or a calm and serious answer. Leona was more than capable of both. Still, especially after his overblot and having seen a glimpse of how he was feeling inside, you had decided to push your pride away for a while and put some effort into being his friend; even if he had a tendency to push everyone away. You presumed it was because at least, if he pushed people away, he was the one who’d have the last word. He could retain the reputation of someone who simply didn’t care, rather than risking to be seen as someone who just wasn’t wanted. You didn’t know how much Leona was aware of the extent of his feelings that he divulged while in an overblotted state. It was probably best if he remained largely unaware. 

Still, you decided to shoot him a quick “Hey, how are you doing?” over your messaging service. Leona didn’t seem very busy at the moment, as his answer came not soon after. “Oi, herbivore, what do you want?”, he texted back. 

“Just wanted to know how you’re enjoying your winter holidays so far. I haven’t heard from you in a while. Thought I’d text you so close to the new year to check how you’re doing. You didn’t seem too pleased to go back to the palace after all”, you replied. Leona shifted his position on his bed, staring at the words on his phone for a while. His expression darkened a little. The fuck did it matter to you how he was doing? 

It wasn’t particularly well, that was for sure, but you didn’t have to know that. However, Leona didn’t really feel like talking at all. Contrary to how easily he could try to sleep away his problems for a while when he was at Night Raven College, they seemed to always catch up to him when he was back home. He hadn’t slept in 48 hours; not since the annoying political gathering Farena had dragged him to on Wednesday. His days consisted of laying in bed and trying to avoid his brother’s nagging and Cheka’s attempts at playing games with him as best as he could; trying to get some sleep but consistently failing to. He let out a bitter laugh, wondering what Ruggie would think if he saw him like this. The hyena beastman had tried multiple times to get him out of bed after Leona had slept for more than 10 hours and failed miserably. And now Leona couldn’t even take a nap for a couple of hours. 

“Yeah, it sucks, dunno if that’s the answer you expected”, Leona typed and ran a hand through his dark hair, slumping back into the pillow and holding the phone above his face, “there’s nothin’ to do here except fancy crap and arguing with my brother, the beloved king. Only good thing is my personal chefs; their food is fantastic as usual.” Leona held his head in pain, the headache from the sleep deprivation getting to him more and more. He turned the brightness of the phone down and reached for another painkiller on the nightstand, downing the medication with a glass of water. 

You had no idea of the beastman’s predicament; comfortably resting under the covers of your own bed. “Let me guess, you’re eating nothing but meat again?”, you chuckled and clicked on ‘send’. 

“Heh. The chef told me I need to eat more greens. I told ‘em I’d rather starve than touch some leaves and eat like a herbivore.”

You rolled your eyes. He always had such an attitude. The poor chefs were probably just doing their best to keep their prince healthy. “Classic Leona”, you replied with a chuckle, “do you plan on handing your essays in after the holidays this time? We don’t want you to repeat another year.” You remembered how Ruggie had teased him that if he didn’t pass his finals again, they’d be in the same class from next year on. Leona furrowed his brows and rolled his eyes. As if he didn’t have other things to worry about than schoolwork at the moment. What idiot even came up with the idea of giving students homework over the holidays?

“You sound like Farena”, you got your next answer, “‘You need to pass this class’, ‘You need to get better grades’, ‘What are the citizens gonna say if Prince Leona can’t even graduate from school?’ Gimme a break. Ugh. Can’t a guy take a vacation? I don’t wanna worry about stupid essays now.”

You sighed. “You’ve pretty much taken a vacation since the school year began…you’re hardly attending classes because you’re always nappin’ somewhere in the greenhouse”, you turned on the light of your room, knowing this conversation was likely not taking a pleasant turn anytime soon, “I’m sorry I remind you of your brother. But I’m not saying this to pester you. If I didn’t give a shit about you, I’d have long since ignored you.” It was true. You hardly would have bothered with him if he hadn’t grown on you overtime. And if it weren’t for the feelings you secretly harbored for him; getting stronger with every passing day. Most people would have probably advised you against falling for Leona. But it was not like that was something you could control. Sometimes you felt like it wasn’t a good idea at all to keep trying to stick around when he wasn’t willing to let you in. But there were moments where Leona was one of the most pleasant people to be around; regardless of how much your classmates would have raised their eyebrows at you for admitting that. He was calm, honest and all the shallow things people around you were obsessing over, Leona was hardly interested in. His demeanor was refreshing sometimes and his jokes were funny. But on other occasions he just had to be so difficult. The worst part was that you knew he could do better. But on most days he wasn’t even willing to try.

Meanwhile Leona wondered what your reason was for reaching out to him if you were just going to lecture him anyway like everyone else did. Why didn’t you just let him mind his business and leave him alone? It wasn’t that Leona was annoyed with your presence. He too felt quite comfortable around you most of the time. But you had the same criticisms for him as everyone else did. And even though he knew deep down you were right; he just kept standing in his own way. It was frustrating sometimes, but he hardly had the energy to do the 180° turn others expected from him. He felt inadequate. Especially for you. What was he expecting from you anyway? That you’d love him and choose him over everyone else you knew? All the people who were responsible and had their lives figured out? So for the sake of his pride he did the one thing he knew best how to do: Keep pushing you away. 

“Fineee, I’ll turn in my essay. I’ll go to class. I’ll even go find some herbivore friends just to humor ya”, he shut you down and it was evident from his phrasing that he was hardly serious, “now shut up and let me go back to sleep for a bit, eh?” He ignored the twinge of guilt in his heart for being so rude to you; who had been nothing but kind to him since the year started. What did he care for anyway? He felt like his emotions were getting the better of him; all the frustration and anger and hopelessness of the past few days creeping into his mind like a shadow that was taking hold of him. He reached for the lamp on the nightstand; knowing full-well he probably wouldn’t be able to take the nap he told you he’d take under these conditions; knocking the glass of water to the floor in the process. “Ah shit”, he groaned, sinking back into the bedsheets. He supposed he could clean that up tomorrow. Or get one of the staff members to do it for him. He just hoped Farena wouldn’t lecture him about it. That’s how far you’ve come, huh? Don’t even have the energy to pick some glass shards up. Pathetic. 

He tried to push down that voice inside him as best as he could, putting his phone aside and burying his face in his pillow to muffle the quiet sobs that he couldn’t stop from escaping him. Though he doubted anyone would hear them anyway. There was another small gathering in the garden below his window and he could hear the upbeat music and some of the chatter from the guests. At least his attendance wasn’t required for today’s event. Leona hated crying. He hated how vulnerable and weak it made him feel. He’d much rather lie to himself and convince himself that he really didn’t give a damn and just enjoyed being lazy and provoking the people around him. In those moments, somewhere deep inside his heart, Leona wished for someone to be there for him. But it wasn’t like anyone out there cared; they were busy with their small garden party to honor his homeland’s coexistence with nature. And you? You had reached out to him and asked him how he was and Leona just couldn’t have given you a normal answer. Instead, he just pushed you away to guarantee that you’d probably stop caring about him too. Your newest message confirmed his suspicions, reading: “Fine. Whatever.”

You were tired of the constant back and forth. You had reached out to him with good intentions and care and this was what you got in return. Maybe it truly was time to leave Leona Kingscholar behind for good and make sure you wouldn’t have to deal with interactions like these on a peaceful night. This was exactly why you had hesitated to text him anything. But instead of taking his nap, Leona replied back. You had the feeling he wouldn’t do that if he had no interest in talking to you whatsoever.

“You really gotta learn to lighten up a little. Not everything’s all serious, ya know? Sometimes a nap is just a nap”, he tried to de-escalate the anger he caused with his previous messages; attempting to play it off as just his usual demeanor and nothing personal. What he didn’t get at the moment was how much that played down your own feelings and words. 

You rolled your eyes, debating whether you should just log off and leave him to his own thoughts. Maybe that was for the better. You sighed. “You didn’t have to start it with ‘shut up’”, you answered, just hoping anything you said wouldn’t make things even worse. 

Leona had gotten up from the bed and sat down near the window, gazing out onto the garden; wishing anyone at that gathering would actually care about his thoughts regarding the development of his homeland. The cheerful laugh he could hear from Farena and his guests filled him with a sense of anger so strong that it hurt nobody but himself. He felt stressed; just wanted to finally go to sleep and actually manage to drift off into the land of dreams. But life seemed to have other plans for him. He had gotten himself into a fight with you, one of the only people who seemed to genuinely care about his feelings; the royal court was just proceeding with their schedule as if he was nothing but a ghost sometimes lingering at them and he knew he had to do the damn essays if he wanted to pass this time. 

“Yeah, you’re right. I should’ve said something more polite like ‘I’m trying to get some shut-eye here, would you kindly shut up so I can rest peacefully?’ or perhaps ‘Excuse me but I have some slumber to catch up on, would you please cease talking so I can focus on that?’ Better?”, Leona snapped, his expression darkening.

His rude behavior and disrespectful reaction to you just trying to be nice to him frustrated you. So much so, that you waved the idea of being polite and holding back your thoughts about the matter a friendly goodbye. If it’s a fight he wanted, he can have one, you thought with a bitter mood. So you replied something you knew you probably should not have said.

“And this is why people don’t put you first.”

Your words stung. You hit him right where it hurt and both of you knew that. The crying that had stopped, resumed again as tears ran down Leona’s cheeks. He knew he got himself into this mess but admitting that seemed like the hardest thing for him right now. Not with how angry you had made him over the past 30 minutes.

“Because I’m sarcastic? Wow. Really settin’ the bar high there. Not everyone needs to be a happy-go-lucky sunshine boy, ya know?”, Leona replied with a spiteful feeling in his chest, “maybe I just express myself differently. What do you care ‘bout it?”

Okay, we’re really doing this, are we? You took a deep breath and shook your head. 

“The problem is that you’re rude as fuck and then you’re complaining about only ever being the second choice. Yeah, sure, it sucks for you that you can’t be king or win the Magift tournament against Malleus; I get that; but everything else is your own doing”, you reached a point where you weren’t holding back your thoughts anymore, “you’re literally not even letting people be nice to you. That’s like, the bare minimum. I’ve been trying to be your friend for the whole school year and sometimes you’re really pleasant to be around but other times you’re just taking your bad moods out on people who care about you and I’m tired of it. I tried. I really did. But you push everyone away and then you go sulk in your bed about how no one understands you.”

“I don’t need you to care about me”, a lie and a pretty damn pathetic one; Leona knew that. But he was in the wrong headspace at the wrong time and on top of everything else, he was panicking because he felt like you were close to abandoning him. And this time it would be his own fault. 

“Goodbye Leona. See you in school, I guess.”

Leona frantically started typing again; not feeling like he’d be able to tolerate the silence. To just be left alone with his thoughts again. To have lost you.

“Fine, fine. I’ll be there. I’ll be the best prince ever. Good, hardworking, loyal, reliable…then everyone will love me, huh?”, he let out a bitter laugh, clutching the pillow he was holding, “is that what you wanted?”

His response was as sarcastic as ever but he was in luck that you were not one to just let him put words into your mouth. 

“No”, you texted back, having calmed down a little and gotten yourself a tea, “I just want you to at least be respectful towards the people who care about you and not lash out at us like this. That’s literally all I ask for. Ruggie and I stuck around even through your stupid overblot and all your depressive episodes where you locked yourself in your room and slept for 14 hours as if that’s gonna solve anything.”

Under normal circumstances, Leona would have been a lot more careful with his words. He was hardly one to even remotely talk about his feelings; always keeping them to himself to make sure no one had anything they could use against him. But the sleep-deprivation, emotional distress and headache put him in a state of mind where he was a lot more honest and open than he intended to be.

“Oh? It must be a real burden on you that I’m not just one of those happy, energetic herbivores, huh? If I was nice and polite; if I just did what I was told, everything would be fine, wouldn’t it?”, he could hardly even still see the screen as his vision got too blurry, “then you wouldn’t have to be burdened with being nice to someone like me….someone who can’t even smile genuinely. Someone like me should just disappear, right?”

As soon as he sent that, he wanted to take it back. This was too much. More than he ever wanted to let you know. He had given you a glimpse into his heart and he was certain that this had been a grave mistake. And simultaneously it made you realize what was really going on here.

Oh god, he’s not doing well at all…shit. You realized Leona hadn’t reacted this way towards you because he hated your presence or saw you as an annoyance…this was his own self-doubt talking and he obviously was not okay right now. You saw that now. 

“Leona…that’s not what I’m saying at all…did something happen at the palace? You’re a bit of an asshole sometimes, but it’s usually never this bad…you okay?”, you messaged him and Leona let out a bitter laugh. Even through all this…even after how rude he had been to you and how hard he had tried to push you away, your first response to his accidental self-deprecating talk in the heat of the moment was to worry about him. You deserve better…, he thought.

“Listen, I don’t expect you to smile or be happy all the time or do what you’re told”, you continued, “and I’m sorry you feel the way you do. I understand and I respect your feelings. You don’t have to be all smiles and super friendly to everyone or fulfill anyone’s expectations. Just don’t let your anger and frustrations out on your friends. Hell, i don’t know, rant to us about how much life sucks or whatever; maybe we’ll end up with a bitter joke about it or something….anything’s better than this.”

He had to admit that…did sound more pleasant. You weren’t done yet.

“I’ll be there even if you’re not feeling well. Even if that lasts weeks or months at a time. But if you don’t give me the basic respect and kindness a friend deserves, then I’m out”, you added, “and I’d never want you to disappear, Leona. That’s the furthest thing from the truth.”

Leona remained silent for a moment. Minutes passed by and you were wondering whether he’d even reply at all. It had started to rain outside and for whatever reason the thunder seemed to calm you down. You put your phone aside and tried to distract yourself by reading a book you grabbed from the school library. After a while, you heard the notification sound of your phone again. You checked the display to see a new message from Leona.

“...heh. You really got me down to a t, didn’t ya?”, it read, “Sorry if I hurt your feelings. I didn’t mean to. I’m just tired. Tired of all the things I have to do, tired of always being second pick, tired of being angry. I guess I took it out on you and that was wrong. I apologize for my rudeness.”

You knew it took a lot for Leona to ever apologize for anything. He had decided to swallow his pride for the sake of fixing the mess he made. You were exhausted from the fight and this was the first time you had heard him apologize to you for being rude. It had never been this bad before; but Leona could be quite dismissive on a regular basis. You had more to say but it was probably best for you to indulge him for now and let him rest and calm down. 

“Thank you. Wanna talk about what happened?”, you asked.

Leona hesitated for a moment. He remembered the gathering two days ago. Farena had pressured him into attending; saying the whole royal family was expected to be there. So Leona had begrudgingly put on the tight, fancy clothing and sat at the dinner table with dozens of politicians and investors. He heard them talk to his older brother and the queen about the current status quo in Sunset Savannah; even acknowledging Cheka as the heir to the throne. But Leona? Leona was meant to sit there for the whole evening and look pretty. Farena shot him a glare when he attempted to take out his phone to distract himself; as it was not proper etiquette for a prince. 

Leona couldn’t remember anyone but his own family members having attempted to talk to him that night. No one had cared about his opinions or the fact that he was even there. For all the talk about how crucial it was that the whole royal family attended, Leona sure felt like an extra at the event. There were many investors who were advocating for a better infrastructure and to develop more parts of the country aside from the capital; making use of its natural resources to achieve a bigger state of welfare. Leona had many thoughts on the matter. He had visions and ideas on how to make them happen. He did care. But it didn’t matter what the loathed second prince said about any of this. Farena would probably scold him for trying to butt into the official state affairs. Not that it mattered whether he said anything or not. His brother’s opinions and his own differed greatly; that much he knew. He’d never listen to any ideas Leona brought to the table. He had tried often enough.

So all Leona did was sit there and listen. Not saying a word; just holding his tongue when he had so many thoughts wanting to be said. He listened to everyone else; let everything happen whether he agreed with their decisions or not. Eventually he just blended the voices out, concentrating solely on trying to keep his act together when his facade was threatening to crack because it occurred to him just how much he didn’t matter. Cheka had tried to climb onto his uncle’s lap and show him a bracelet he crafted, expecting a response from Leona. He knew he had to react somehow. He couldn’t just ignore when someone was talking to him; especially not with so many people right next to him. But he feared, were he to say something now, his voice would crack and he’d break.

So he took all his strength to keep it together, gently placed Cheka on the ground again and walked over to his brother, excusing himself and saying he was feeling sick. Not a lie technically.

Leona took a deep breath before replying to you.

“No, I’d rather not. That’s…my own personal life, y’know?”, he answered, “I’ll stop being such an angry prick towards you and Ruggie all the time. I guess I needed that wake-up call, harsh as it was. At least I know you’re not one to lie to my face, heh. Now, if you don’t mind, I’m going to try to catch up on some shut-eye. I’ll talk to you later.”

You leaned back with a slight smile on your face. That was a lot more genuine than what you were used to from Leona. Maybe it was just your imagination, but you were beginning to feel like, bizarre as it was, today had brought you closer to one another. That Leona had reached a new level of trust towards you he didn’t have before.

“Heh…see, that’s much better than ‘shut up and let me take a nap’”, you replied with a relieved smile, “get some rest, Leona. Hope you’ll feel better afterwards. ❤️”

“Did you just send me a heart emoji?”

“That was an accident. Go to sleep. :)”

Leona realized he had a smile on his face. He chuckled, burying his had in his hands. You were really getting to him, huh? You had said a couple of things that really stung and yet somehow at the end of the day he treasured you enough to smile at a sign of affection from you. I better make sure to treat ‘em properly from now on, he mused and smirked, laying down on his bed again. He wondered if you actually had feelings for him or something of the sort. Somehow with the thought of you on his mind, he fell asleep easily, relieved you were able to sort things out. And he was already looking forward to talking to you again… 

You didn’t hear from Leona again for at least half a day. You were already suspecting that the sleepy lion may not have gotten any sleep at all lately, so you were glad he was resting. What you didn’t expect was for Leona to call you when he woke up. He’s calling? That’s a new one.

“Mornin’ Herbivore”, his voice was raspy and was cracking slightly. He sounded a little bit like he had cried but you didn’t dare to comment on it. “It’s 3pm. Sleep well?”, you chuckled and had a smile on your face again. “Hmm, I’ve had better nights but yeah”, he responded, rubbing his eyes and running a hand through his hair, “sorry again about last night. I had a bit of a moment there…I’ll do better. If you forgive me that is. But only if you wanna. I was kind of an ass.” Leona turned on the camera of his phone and so did you. He gave you a triumphant grin when he saw how your reaction to seeing his face was just smiling instantly. 

You sighed. “It’s fine. You’re lucky I like you. You’re an acquired taste.”

Leona chuckled. “I’m glad my terrible sleep schedule and awful personality can be considered an acquired taste in this day and age”, he winked at you. You let out a laugh. You looked at Leona’s calm expression; the way his hair looked messy and his ears twitched a little. He was wearing a simple black t-shirt and you thought he looked absolutely ethereal. You had to admit you missed him.

“Okay, you made me laugh, I give you that”, you chuckled and grinned at him, “feeling better?”

“A bit”, Leona answered, “Thank ya for being so patient with me. You’re a real one. I guess I’m just used to people not sticking around long enough to deal with my bullshit…..it feels weird….having someone care.” Something had definitely changed inside Leona. He was still weirdly genuine about his feelings. Maybe he was also still very exhausted. 

“Well, you’re in luck. I’m really stubborn and I always want to have the last word. You’re not getting rid of me that easily. Even if you hiss at me like a feral housecat”, you teased him. “Heh”, he laughed and you could see his ears move along with the rising and falling of his chest, “fine, I won’t try to get rid of ya then. Still gonna be a bit of a prick tho. Maybe I will start hissing at people. Make a reputation for myself. The hissing prince of Sunset Savannah.” 

The two of you laughed and Leona ran a hand through his hair, trying to adjust it somehow. “You know what? You just gave me my first real laugh of this week”, he gave you a genuine smile and you could tell he was feeling better, “normally I don’t hang around herbivores that much. But I like ya. Thanks for stickin’ with me.”

You gave him a kind smile. “See? You’re pretty fun when you’re not being an asshole. And I assure you, you already have a reputation. Not a particularly good one, but it’s certainly….something.” 

Leona chuckled and excused himself for a moment to open the blinds on his window. He put his phone aside and all you heard from him was a sharp hiss of pain and him cursing under his breath. “The fuck happened?”, you looked at him with concern once he was back. “Stepped in glass shards”, he mumbled as if that explained anything. “Why the hell are there glass shards on your floor?” “Ancient royal trial that every member of the royal family has to go through at some point in their lives”, he commented dryly and you were pretty sure he was making this up. 

“Anyway, you should probably get first aid for that”, you raised an eyebrow. “Alright”, Leona smirked, seeming as tough as ever, “don’t miss me too much.” He winked at you before ending the call. He’s certainly growing bold now, hmm? You laughed and went to make yourself some food, awaiting his return eagerly.

It took about 30 minutes for Leona to return and start making fun of you for worrying about him so much. “I’m not made of glass, y’know?”, he smirked, “I just step in it sometimes.” 

You sigh and put your friend on speaker, tending to your kitchen appliances once more. “Did you get first-aid for your injury?”, you asked, throwing some carrots, broccoli and zucchini into the mixer. “Yeah. Staff bandaged my foot and told me to be more careful. Got a whole lecture because they’re so considerate”, Leona rolled his eyes and then cringed at the sudden loud whirring, “fuck is that noise, herbivore?” “Oh…sorry”, you apologized and turned the mixer off, “I’m making a soup. Noticed I haven’t had lunch yet today.” 

“Ew with like, vegetables and shit?”, Leona shook his head in disappointment. You chuckled. “Yes, not everyone has the strength and insanity it takes to attempt to solely live off meat”, you teased. 

“Anyway, to get back to our conversation from before, it’s nice to know I have a reputation for something, heh. Even if it’s just that”, Leona chuckled, “I don’t get people sometimes. ‘Ugh, he’s so pretty! Too bad he’s a jerk!’ Why do people keep sayin’ that? Am I supposed to be flattered or pissed?”

You laughed. “Well, I think they’re having a crisis because they’re attracted to a guy whose personality is like a matryoshka doll where you’re kinda intimidated to take off another layer because you’re not sure if it’s gonna get better or worse.”

Leona snorted. “Okay, that was a fun analogy, I’m not even gonna be mad. I’ll remember that one”, he smirked, “so, given that you have first-hand experience now, do you have the feeling it’s getting better? Or worse?” So he’s acknowledging that he’s opening up to me more than he did before, you pondered and smiled, that’s good. “Better”, you admitted, “now I know I didn’t go that wrong with giving you a chance. Anyway, what do you do all day over there?”

“Oh, nothin’ much”, Leona shrugged, “sleeping…trying to sleep, avoiding my nephew, avoiding my brother, avoiding the chamberlains, playing chess against a computer…when I arrived I drove around a bit and stopped by Elephant Legacy to take a bath in the secluded hot springs only the royal family has access to. I guess that counts for doing somethin’”

“And you made fun of Idia for being a shut-in?”, you raised an eyebrow. “I also nap outside, that disqualifies me from being a shut-in”, Leona grinned, absentmindedly playing with an old yoyo he got from a market when he was 7, “but yeah it’s pretty boring. Night Raven College is a little more interesting.”

After a week of hardly doing anything, Leona had to admit he was growing quite bored of the winter holidays. You didn’t have many plans either, so that was how the two of you ended up playing online chess. “God, with that strategy or lack thereof you have, your king is gonna be down in less than five minutes”, Leona held his head in second-hand embarrassment and reached for a glass of water to take a sip. “Oh so you think you’re close to losing?”, you smirk and heard Leona choke on his water, coughing frantically. Did you really just call him your king?, he thought with a surprised expression, his ears laid back against his head.

“What’s the matter, Leona?”, you asked and he could hear your teasing tone through the speaker, “did I perhaps fluster you?” You were really playing with fire today, huh? Leona smirked. He didn’t admit it, but he did absolutely like that. “Why don’t ya focus on your shitty ass playstyle instead, you just lost the best piece you still had on the board”, he hissed back, his tail swishing back and forth. “I didn’t see your queen there”, you whined. “What do you mean, you didn’t see it there? It was literally right next to where you were standing-”, Leona shook his head and held it with his hand, “I don’t even know where to start with this one…”

As the day went on, you got Leona to play a couple of other online board games with you, mostly luck-based ones because you insisted you were “good at them”. He also agreed to teach you some chess strategies, arguing that even with knowing them you wouldn’t be able to beat him. He never let you win. Not once. 

He had to admit that your company brought him amusement and joy. That you distracted him from the problems he was worrying about. So he didn’t mind spending his days with you. He was looking forward to seeing you again at Night Raven College. 

“Leona, it’s your turn. Leona?”, you asked when he wasn’t responding. It was already evening and the sun had set. You could hear soft breathing and some light snores coming from the phone. You smiled and closed the game the two of you were playing. Something inside you didn’t have the heart to just hang up on him. So you put your phone aside and went to bed yourself, feeling somehow closer to Leona this way.

He woke up with surprise upon finding out you were still there. He wondered whether that was intentional or not. He quickly pushed away the idea of waking up beside you; of pulling you into his arms and falling back asleep in the comfort of the blankets and your warmth. Leona pouted when he noticed the smile on his face. Then, upon having another fantastic idea, his expression turned into a mischievous smirk as he made his way over to the wardrobe where he had hidden a plastic aerophone that he confiscated from Cheka after the latter had attempted to “play a song” for him and followed him through the entire palace. He sat down next to where his phone was laying on the bed and blew into the cheap instrument; causing it to emit sounds with a terribly loud volume. He stopped just in time to hear the angry “WHAT THE FUCK, LEONA????” from your side of the call. “Rise and shine, herbivore”, you could hear him snicker. “You’re such an asshole”, you muttered.

The days went by fast when you had each other’s company. Leona kept you updated on what was happening at the palace; the stuff that wasn’t confidential at least. This mostly happened in the form of him ranting about how much it annoyed him. He had ditched the Sunset Savannah New Year’s ceremony and spent it on the palace roof, turning his camera on and letting you see the fireworks of his homeland and how the city was lit up for the celebrations. “If you ever visit, I’ll show ya around”, he had promised you.

Your presence in his life made the holidays pass by fast. When Leona stepped through the dark mirror on his way back to the school, you were already waiting for him on the other side. Both of you felt a little awkward at first. Things had changed a lot between you since you had last seen each other, after all. Leona rolled his eyes at your attempts to make smalltalk, waiting for the rest of the students to exit the mirror chamber before he opened his arms. “Come on now, y/n, don’t be a stranger”, he sighed and you stepped into his embrace, wrapping your arms around him. You hoped he didn’t have a sliver of an idea how much you had wanted this over the past few days. What you didn’t know was that Leona felt exactly the same. He held the back of your head with his hand and let you bury your face in his shoulder. Leona had his tail wrapped around your waist and you got goosebumps where it touched your arm. A strand of his hair was tickling the skin of your face and you noticed how much you liked the smell of his cologne. 

The two of you walked back to the dorms together, Leona staying closer to you than usual. Much to your surprise, the lion beastman actually showed up to class on the first day. It was his most hated lesson, even. He sat down next to you. “Glad you showed up”, you said and reached for the cup standing next to you, “I got you a coffee.” Leona inspected the beverage with surprise, not expecting you to get him something to drink on the off-chance that he came to class. You raised your eyebrow at him when you saw him sniffing at the coffee. “If you’re gonna complain that you don’t like this kind, I’m never getting you anything ever again”, you threatened and Leona patted your head. “Don’t worry, herbivore”, he smirked and took a sip from the coffee as the lesson began.

Reunited at Night Raven College, Leona still enjoyed spending his time with you. He had invited you over to show you some more strategies in chess; as it was easier to teach you anything if you were there in person. You had eaten dinner together (a bunch of meat that Leona ordered from a take-out restaurant in the village on the isle) and decided to take a breath of fresh air on the roof of the Savanaclaw dorm. Leona looked at you as you gazed at the stars. 

“Do you think the sky is fake?”, Leona was caught off-guard by your question. “The hell?”, he raised an eyebrow and sat up. “Like, the ones over the dorms. What even are the dorms? Are they actual locations the mirrors just teleport us to? Are they weird pocket dimensions? Why do I never hear anyone talking about this?”, you asked. Leona chuckled. “Considering they’re never locked and we haven’t seen anyone try to rob us yet, I thought it was pretty obvious they’re not just standing around somewhere in the wild”, he shrugged, “but yeah, this isn’t the actual night sky. The constellations are super off.” “I see someone actually paid attention in astronomy class”, you commented. “Not really”, Leona replied, “in my homeland there’s the belief that the stars are the great kings of the past who are watching over you from above. Heard the story a million times. Learnt about the constellations as time went on. If you’re worried or in despair, you can ask them for guidance and supposedly they would answer you. Personally I think that’s a bunch of humbug.” 

Leona shrugged and you thought about his words, having learnt something new about his culture. “If you believed in it…what would you ask them?”, you wondered and looked into Leona’s emerald eyes. “That’s a little too personal, don’t ya think?”, Leona smirked but then conceded, “I suppose I’d ask them why I pulled such a dumb result in fate’s lottery, among other things.” “Idia called it ‘god’s rigged gacha machine’”, you chuckled. “That’s one way to put it”, Leona mused. “Then again, you never know what life’s gonna give you”, you tried to add a more positive point of view, “who knows maybe you’ll soon receive a great deal of luck or something. You never know.”

Leona let out a bitter laugh. “Then I suppose, I’ll have to thank the great kings of the past”, he crossed his arms, “anyway, it’s getting late. We should probably head inside again.” He got up and so did you, making your way towards Leona’s room again. 

You couldn’t even react fast enough when you stumbled on the roof and fell over, Leona catching you just in time and pulling you back into balance. You were leaned against his chest and Leona was holding onto you to keep you steady. “Geez, herbivore, first you’re all talk about stickin’ by me and being my friend and now I have to prevent you from breaking your bones every 5 minutes”, Leona sighed. You pouted. “Name ONE other time where you had to prevent me from breaking my bones”, you rolled your eyes.

You only noticed then how close the two of you were. Determined to tease him back, you spoke before you realized what it was you just said. “Are we about to kiss now?”

The smirk left your face when the realization hit you. Leona, on the other hand, was having the time of his life with this. He grinned at you and let out a laugh. “My, you’re getting bold now”, his ears twitched as he laughed, “I mean, go ahead if you wanna, I ain’t gonna stop ya.” He was challenging you, part of him thinking you weren’t going to do it anyway. 

His eyes widened and he was caught off guard when you took him up on the offer and he found himself with your lips on his instead. 

Leona closed his eyes and wrapped his arms around your shoulders, kissing you back softly. There was a sense of relief to his kiss; as if he had waited for this to happen for centuries. He wouldn’t ever have dreamt that you might feel the same for him as he did for you. Not with the behavior he had shown to you before. Not with the way he went about his days. And yet, you had given him a chance. The chance to prove to you that he was worth it. And he swore in that moment that he was going to make the most of that.

Leona sighed against your lips and cupped your cheek with his hand, deepening the kiss eagerly. He furrowed his brows and pulled you as close to him as possible. 

When your lips parted from each other, Leona still held you in a tight embrace, resting his head on top of yours. “So…”, you began, nuzzling his neck and relaxing into his embrace, “are we going to get on people’s nerves together from now on?” “You still have to ask that? Take a hint, herbivore”, he hissed and then chuckled, pressing a kiss to your forehead. 

You remained like this for a while, just holding each other as Leona looked up to the night sky. “You’re more quiet than usual”, you said softly, “what’s going through your head, hmm?” Leona rolled his eyes. “Life clowned me with irony and now I gotta thank the great kings of the past for ‘a great deal of luck or something’”, he sighed and laughed. You pressed another soft kiss to his lips and held his face in your hand, looking into his eyes with a loving expression. 

“I love you…and at the risk of sounding incredibly cheesy”, you confessed and brushed a strand of hair out of his face, “you’re my first choice, Leona. Always have been.” Leona hugged you tightly and squeezed you slightly, holding onto you like he feared you might disappear any second now. He buried his face in your neck. Your words had touched his heart and made him feel a sense of happiness and closure he was longing for for god knows how long. He kissed you once more, pouring all his pent-up attachment and care for you into the kiss as the stars gazed down on you.

[heartlessfujoshi]

Familiar Places - An IgNoct fanfic

Title: Familiar Places Fandom: FFXV Pairing: Ignoct (Noctis Lucis Caelum x Ignis Scientia) Rating; General (Minor Angst - Tooth-Rotting Fluff) Word Count: ~4,500 Summary: It’s Noctis’ 18th birthday, and it seems that everyone on Eos has forgotten about it. 

A/N: Happy birthday to Noctis! :D Gosh, it felt good to write the birthday boy again. :) Please enjoy! 

---

Noctis looks at himself in the mirror, adjusts the simple tie around his neck, and stares back at his reflection. He doesn’t look any different. Not that he would know what one should look like when they turn eighteen. He tilts his head, fixing a bit of his unruly hair, then sighs. Birthdays are dumb. He hates having to deal with people wishing him well tidings on this day, when it really isn’t all that special. It’s Friday, and that was it.

So what if he’s now of legal age to do most things in Insomnia? That is, except for drinking, which is fine. He has never cared for the taste of liquor the few times he’s tried it under certain circumstances. 

Picking up his phone, he checks to see if anyone has said anything yet, but all lines of chat are completely quiet. No messages from Prompto, none from Gladio, and definitely none from Ignis. He doesn’t know why, but his chest aches as he lingers on the last text he’d exchanged with Ignis, which had been all of three days ago. And all it had said was “Fine.” 

Ignis had wanted him to go to the Citadel to attend some stupid meeting, and he had wanted to stay behind at school with Prompto, as the two of them were working on a class project. Of course, all Ignis had said was that single word. Straight and to the point - that has always been Ignis’ motto. 

He turns off the light, and heads out into his kitchen, where there’s a tray full of pastries sitting on his counter. Apparently Ignis had come by at some point to drop them off, as he knows they weren’t there last night when he went to bed. Looking around, he tries to see if his Adviser is around, lurking in the shadows, but no - he’s alone in his apartment. 

“Happy birthday to me.” He mumbles, picking up one of his favorites - one made with Ulwat berry. 

Dusting off the sugar from his fingertips, he grabs his things and heads out of his apartment. He’s taken to riding public transportation in the morning, while he saves using the Regalia for the afternoons. Taking public transportation to the Citadel, where he goes regularly each week for training with Cor and the Glaives isn’t an easy task, hence the rides in the Regalia. It’s also the time of day when he gets to speak to Ignis, which he looks forward to most days. One of the perks of living away from the Citadel with his father is that he’s able to blend in with the rest of society. No one pays him any attention, but if he’s in the Regalia, then all eyes are on him. Anonymity has its perks. 

Prompto doesn’t greet him with a happy birthday when he sees him. They do share a hug, and then Prompto launches into telling him all about this game he’d been playing the night before, which Noctis remembers as he’d had to help him solve a difficult puzzle through chat. He wants to ask him if he knows what day it is, but then stops himself because he doesn’t want the unnecessary attention from any of the other students. 

The day goes by fast. School has only come back from summer break the week before, and it’s their final year. He had always thought that his third year would be the worst, but so far it’s proving to be the easiest. That all can change, though, but for now, he’s going to count it as a blessing. 

“Hey, want to go to the arcade?” Noctis asks Prompto, as they get their trainers back on, slipping his school shoes into his locker. 

Prompto grimaces, then shakes his head. “I can’t! I have plans, Noct. I’m so sorry!” Prompto rushes to slam his locker shut, and then starts to walk away. “Maybe tomorrow? See ya, Prince!” He waves, and then leaves the school building, leaving Noctis to stare after his best friend with an open mouth. 

Tomorrow? What good would going to the arcade be if they went tomorrow? Today is his birthday, not tomorrow. Noctis sighs, then turns back to look at his shoes. Was the world against him today? That had to be in. The Six are having a laugh that the Prince of Lucis has yet to hear someone say ‘happy birthday’ to him. 

Not even his own father has reached out to him to wish him well. Usually his father is the first person to send a text - always at the exact time that his mother gave birth to him. But not today. The last text he has from his father was from over a month ago. He knows that tensions have been high between Lucis and Niflheim, but not even a text?? 

Noctis puts his bag over his shoulder, and leaves the school grounds, only to find that the Regalia isn’t there. No car to take him back home. He looks up at the sky, and isn’t at all surprised to see that the sky has gone grey. He can feel a chill in the air, and as he begins to walk towards the underground, rain begins to fall. 

Perfect. 

He gets down below just as a deluge occurs, the sky’s opening up with a torrential amount of rain. His feet pound on the stairs, rushing to get further away from the wetness, water running down the stairs towards where he’s going. He pulls out his phone again, making sure he hasn’t missed a text from anyone. Still no communication from anyone. 

Is my phone dead? 

Flipping through his contacts, he finds one for the video game store he likes to visit, and tries to call the number. It rings, and as someone picks up, he hangs up. Okay, so his phone is working. That’s good. 

But why does he feel so bad? 

Rather than go straight home, Noctis decides to head to the largest public library in Insomnia, which is only a few stops away from where his apartment is. If no one is going to be bothered to wish him a happy birthday, he’s going to go and do something he hasn’t done in ages. He can’t remember the last time he willingly went to the library. Ignis is the one that frequents the library, often dragging Noctis with him as it will help educate him on the workings of the Citadel, and what he’ll need to know when he takes over duties for the King. 

The library is quiet. There are people milling about, trying to stay out of the rain, as it is still a torrential downpour. Noctis walks in, shaking his head to get some of the water off of him, but it doesn’t really help as he’s pretty much drenched. He looks around, deciding on where he should go, and heads up to the second level, where the historical books can be found. 

It’s like Ignis is with him, which is mildly comforting. It’d be better if Ignis had actually been there, but Noctis can’t be upset with him. He knows that his life has become more difficult, with more tasks now falling onto his shoulders. His future right-hand man. Looking to his right, he feels a pang in his chest, missing the presence of who should be there. 

Choosing the library might not have been the best idea, as now he’s more depressed than he had been at school. He pulls his phone out, and debates on taking a selfie in the stacks, wanting to send the picture to Ignis to show him where he is, but the ‘Fine’ text mocks him, making him remember that they aren’t really on the best of terms right now. He loses the smile that had begun to appear on his face, and pockets his phone again, feeling defeated. 

He finds a quiet corner, and sits down, hoping he isn’t ruining the furniture with his damp clothing. No one comes near him, which again, he’s grateful for but begins to wonder if there is something wrong with him. Brushing it off, he closes his eyes and sinks further into the comfortable chair, deciding that a quick nap might help get him out of his funk. 

It’s dark when he wakes him, Noctis looking around in confusion as he’s forgotten where he is. Library. Right. He picks up his bag, and pulls his phone out of his pocket. Still no calls or texts from any of his friends, nor from his father. Hadn’t he reminded everyone a week ago that his birthday was coming up? Maybe he had done a bad job of saying something. 

Luckily, the rain has now stopped, allowing him to head to the underground without any worry of getting drenched again. He stops at one stop before his station, and heads back up topside to grab his favorite meal. If no one is going to celebrate his birthday with him, then that’s their loss. He’s going to enjoy the rest of his birthday by himself, and that’s going to start with some delicious Galahd food. 

He eats at the stall by himself, ordering all of his favorite menu items and devouring them as if he hasn’t seen food in days. He tips the chef nicely, then walks towards his apartment building, figuring the walk will do him well as he has to work off the food he’s just consumed. No training today, which he had assumed was because it’s his birthday, but since he hasn’t gotten a call or text from either Cor or Gladio, Noctis figures that maybe it’s just a lucky day. 

The apartment lobby is decorated for the late summer holiday, and his doorman greets him hello before hitting the elevator button for him. Noctis gets into the elevator, and pushes the button for his floor. He walks off the elevator, and heads to his apartment, keeping his head down as he’s in no mood to make eye contact with anyone - friendly neighbor or not. He wants today to come to an end. Eighteen has been terrible so far, and he doesn’t expect it to get any better. 

Putting the key into his lock, he twists it, noticing that there was light streaming from under the door. Did I forget to turn off the lights again? Ignis is going to kill me. He twists the handle, and then pushes the door open. He’s about to check on the lights when he looks up and stares in shock as every single person who he’s been thinking about over the course of the day is standing in his apartment. “Surprise!” They all shout, balloons and decorations filling his apartment to the brim. “Happy birthday, Noctis!” Everyone yells, poppers exploding as they shout their birthday greeting to him. 

“What?” He stares at the group - Gladio is there, dressed down in his workout clothes; Prompto is there, snapping pictures with his camera; Cor is standing off to the side with his father - his father is here. And then, standing front and center is the one person he’s been missing the most - Ignis. 

“Apologies, Your Highness.” Ignis greets him with a wane smile. “We had to keep this secret from you.” 

“Sorry, Noct!” Prompto appears next to him, snapping a pic of the two of them with his camera. “I know you wanted to go to the arcade, but I had to come here to help set everything up! But where the hell have you been?! We thought you were going to be here hours ago!” 

Blushing, Noctis looks around, still stunned by the surprise of everyone being here. “I thought you forgot.” 

“How could we forget your birthday?” Gladio threw his arm around his neck, and began to rub his fist against the top of his head. “You told us last week!” 

Noctis feels sheepish, struggling to get out of his hold as Gladio stops rubbing his head. He breathes a bit easier, pulling at the tie around his neck, which is still in a knot because he hadn’t bothered to do anything with it at the library. He gives his future Shield a grin, scratching the back of his neck. “Did I?” 

“You know you did, you jerk.” Gladio gives him a smirk, then turns and walks over to where Cor is standing. 

He approaches his father, who has taken a seat, no doubt because his knee is bothering him. “Hello.” He greets him, taking the seat next to his to be on the same level as him. 

“Happy birthday, Noctis.” His father hands him a small package, which he takes with his hand. “I apologize, we can’t stay for very long. When Ignis had informed me that you had not yet come home after my final meeting was over, I told Cor that we should come by.” 

“I’m glad you did.” Noctis sets the gift down. “I didn’t expect to see either of you here.” He looks over at Ignis, who is having a conversation with Prompto, who is in the process of taking pictures of everything happening around them. “Thanks, Dad.” 

“It isn’t every day that you turn eighteen.” His father stands up, using his cane to balance himself. Cor is at his side in an instant, his father rolling his eyes. “I’m not an invalid, Leonis.” 

“I did not say that you were, Your Majesty.” Cor looks at him. “Happy birthday, Noct. No training tomorrow.”

”Seriously?” He asks, surprise returning. “You never give me two days off in a row.” 

“Yes, I do.” Cor gives a nod, Noctis hiding his eye roll by looking away as Cor then looks at his father. “Ready to go, Your Majesty?” 

“As ready as I’ll ever be.” Regis looks around the room. “Boys - I am glad that my son has such a strong bond with the three of you. You didn’t have to do this for his birthday.” 

“We wanted to do something fun, Your Majesty!” Prompto walks over with Ignis, who has yet to look at him since apologizing to him. “Noct deserves it!” 

“He does, indeed.” Regis’ hand falls heavy on his shoulder, Noctis turning to give his father a polite smile. “Enjoy yourself, Noctis. Happy birthday.” 

“Thanks, Dad.” He wishes goodbye to both him and Cor, and then turns to look at his friends, who are already pulling pizza out of boxes. “Sorry, you guys.” 

“You should be.” Gladio shoves a slice into his mouth, then drops down onto his couch. “Where did you go? Since I know you weren’t training today.” 

Noctis walks over, and grabs a slice of pizza. Even though he’s still pretty full, there’s room in his stomach for a bit of pizza. “I went to the library.” 

“You did?” Prompto exclaims. “Willingly?!” 

A soft laugh leaves his mouth as he picks up his piece of pizza, and starts to eat it. “Is that so surprising?” 

“It’s your birthday.” Prompto nods. “Why would anyone on Eos want to go to the library on their birthday?” 

Noctis doesn’t know how to answer that. He knows why he chose to go there; because it was a special place to Ignis. Ignis, his closest confidant who has become too distant from him these last few months. He knows it’s because of the pressure of work, and the tasks he’s been given as he’s training to be his Adviser, but it doesn’t make it hurt any less. Any place he can go that reminds him of Ignis, he will visit without hesitation. 

“Did you find any books to your liking, Your Highness?” Ignis asks, pushing his glasses back up onto the bridge of his nose. 

He gives him a small smile. “I did not.” 

“Why am I not surprised by that?” The smirk on Ignis’ lips makes his heart do a dance in his chest. 

Gladio reaches for the remote, and turns on the television, Prompto shutting off the stereo as it had been playing music in the background. “You sure did spend a lot of time there. It’s almost 8!” 

“I fell asleep.” Noctis admits, knowing that his friends are going to tease him. 

Gladio and Prompto burst out laughing, while Ignis has a thoughtful look on his face. Nothing else is said, and they go about the evening, hanging out and watching television, eating all of the pizza that Cor had so generously brought over. 

Prompto yawns. “It’s late.” He looks at his watch, then looks over at Gladio. “Can you give me a ride, big guy?” 

“I suppose I can.” Gladio yawns as he stands up, stretching his arms over his head. “You good, Specs?” 

“Yes.” Ignis nods. “I can manage to get home on my own.” 

“Okay, good.” Gladio looks at Noctis. “Happy birthday, jerk.” 

“Thanks, asshole.” He groans as Gladio pulls him into a bone crushing hug, then feels his ears ring as Gladio bellows out a loud laugh. 

Prompto hugs him, getting in one more shot of the two of them with his camera. “Happy birthday, Noct. I’m really glad we surprised you.” 

“You did.” He smiles at his best friend, then says good night to both Prompto and Gladio. The apartment is deafeningly quiet. There’s a slight rustle, as Ignis begins pulling down decorations before heading into the kitchen to put whatever food is left away. Noctis approaches him, knowing it’s best to stay out of his way and leans against the counter. “Thank you for leaving breakfast this morning.” 

“Did I?” Ignis asks, tying an apron around his waist, as he begins to wash the dishes without any prompt to do so. 

“It was either you, or maybe the Six came and visited me this morning, offering me their own way of celebrating my birthday.” 

Ignis laughs, which makes Noctis smile. “I somehow doubt that the Six are involved in bringing Ulwat berry pastries to you.” 

“So it was you.” He grins, happy to see Ignis so relaxed. This is the only time of day he gets to see him like this. “You made them, didn’t you?” 

“I did.” Ignis nods, scrubbing a plate with a sponge. “Don’t tell Prompto, as he begged me to bring him some.” 

“You didn’t?” Noctis gasps, and then begins to laugh as Ignis shoots him a look. “Fine, I won’t tell. Your secret is safe with me.” He pretends to zipper his lips, then tosses a pretend key away. 

Ignis finishes cleaning up, then goes over to where his bag is, and pulls out a wrapped box. “Happy birthday, Your Highness.” He hands it to him, keeping his eyes lowered. 

Noctis brushes his finger against Ignis’, and feels electricity shoot up his arm at the not-so-innocent touch. To his credit, Ignis doesn’t make a sound, but Noctis can see that his face is now slightly flushed. “You didn’t have to get me anything, Ignis. You already do so much for me.” 

“Were you really at the library today?” Ignis asks, as Noctis holds the present with both of his hands. “Why would you go there?” 

“Because I know it’s your favorite place.” Noctis can feel his soul leaving his body, as he admits it out loud. It’s one thing to know something, but informing the person that he’s aware of it, it makes it so much more real. Might as well go all in. He takes a deep breath, and meets Ignis’ eyes, who is finally looking at him in a proper way. “And since you had forgotten my birthday, I wanted to be somewhere that reminded me of you.” 

“I didn’t forget, Noctis.” His knees tremble at the way Ignis says his name. He hardly ever calls him by his name. It’s always ‘Your Highness’, or some variation of that title, but never his full name. Sometimes, if he’s lucky, he’ll get him to address him as Noct, but that’s only usually when Gladio or Prompto are around. “I was here, waiting for you to come home.” 

His heart is pounding hard in his chest, as Ignis removes the apron around his waist. The present in his hands feels like it weighs a million pounds. “Should I open this now?” He asks, as Ignis turns his back towards him, the tension continuing to run high in the room. 

“If you wish.” 

Noctis pulls at the packaging, and reveals a beautiful leather notebook, full of blank pages. “Ignis.” He whispers, as he touches the engraving of his name on the front cover. “This is too much.” 

“It’s more practical than anything.” Ignis has returned, and is now standing in front of him. “You will need to take notes about my day-to-day dealings at the Citadel. I’m sorry it’s not very personal.” 

Ignis may think that, but Noctis stares at the beautiful leather notebook, and knows that Ignis chose this one specifically because he knew that Noctis would like it. And he does. Gold shimmers on the edges of the pages, and he can see a beautiful midnight blue pen sits in the pen holder that’s attached to the notebook. While yes, it may be a practical gift, Noctis stares in wonder at the engraving. Ignis did not have to do that. 

“It’s beautiful.” He sets the notebook down, and without thinking, steps forward and puts his arms around Ignis - one around his neck, while the other slips under his arm to wrap around his back. “Thank you.” He rests his head against Ignis’ shoulder, hoping that he isn’t overstepping their invisible boundaries. 

It takes Ignis a full ten seconds to lift his arms, and put them around Noctis’ body. He wants to cry. Ignis has never been someone who hugs, and to feel his arms around him like this - this is the best birthday gift he could ever receive. “I’m glad you like it.” Ignis’ voice sneaks into his ear, as Noctis has yet to lift his head up from where it’s resting on his shoulder. “You deserve so much more than I could ever give to you, Noctis.” 

Lifting his head, he stares into Ignis’ eyes, which are blazing with a look that he’s never seen before. “You already give me more than I need, Ignis. And it makes me want more.” His own cheeks burn as he refuses to close his eyes. “You don’t understand, do you? How much I-“ 

But the words that are on the tip of his tongue disappear into the void as Ignis’ mouth touches his with the barest hint of a kiss. Noctis makes a noise in the back of his throat - shock, surprise, desire - a culmination of all three, he doesn’t know. What he does know is that Ignis’ lips are touching his, and he’s returning the kiss with as much effort as he can. His arms curl tightly around Ignis’ body, and he feels the pressure of his arms surrounding him, squeezing him with as much enthusiasm as he’s showing to him. 

He parts his mouth, and feels Ignis’ tongue slip in. He hears himself moan into Ignis’ mouth as their tongues connect for the first time, his brain shutting down completely as he surrenders himself to the kiss. Ignis makes a noise that will live rent-free in his head until he’s no longer a part of this world, dying to hear him make it again. They stand in the middle of his living room, holding each other as their mouths continue to learn more about each other in ways that can only be explored through the intimate act of a kiss. 

Their kiss comes to a hasty end, as they both take gasps of breath, but don’t pull apart from one another. “Noctis, I…” Ignis’ forehead presses against his, as they stay close. 

“I know.” He doesn’t need to hear him say it. “You know that I-“ 

“Yes.” Ignis nods his head. 

Confessions of love are never easy to get out, but knowing that Ignis knows how he feels and vice versa, it brings a sense of acceptance inside of Noctis. Reaching for him, Ignis’ mouth returns to his, and they share another amorous kiss, Noctis becoming lightheaded as he forgets the importance of breathing. They fall back onto the couch together, both laughing as they have yet to disentangle themselves from each other. Noctis puts his head on Ignis’ shoulder, a smile plastered on his face. 

“Does this mean we can do this all the time now?” He asks, staring at his fingers that are laced with Ignis’, resting on top of his thigh as he snuggles up against the man who has been the only constant in his life besides his father. 

“Maybe not all the time, but I do believe we can engage in certain….things, if you wish.”

He lifts his head, and sees Ignis has a smirk on his lips. “Oh, you’re a bad man, Ignis.” 

“I suppose that I am.” 

They kiss a few more times on the couch, and then Ignis is gathering his items to head home for the evening. As he walks him to the door, Noctis stares up at him, feeling very shy. “How did you know?” He asks, as he opens the door for him. 

“You went to the library and fell asleep.” Ignis lowers his head, and brushes a kiss against his lips before bringing them to his ear. “You went because of me. Because of how you feel. And you were comfortable enough to sleep there.” 

“I can fall asleep anywhere.” His cheeks burn with embarrassment, hating that he’s so easy to read. 

A soft chuckle sends a shiver down his spine. “You can, but knowing you went there to be close to me? That, my darling, is why I knew you’d reciprocate.” 

“Always so technical.” He pushes him, but then pulls him back towards him and kisses him flush on the lips. “Good night, Ignis. Thanks for making this the best birthday ever.” 

“Anything for you, Noct.” 

He closes the door after sharing one more kiss with him, his insides fluttering like crazy. To think that the day had begun with Ignis’ own baked goods, and is now coming to a close with the touch of his lips still clinging to his own mouth. He had thought his friends had forgotten all about him, but they had done the complete opposite - they had surprised him with a celebration. 

Touching his lips, he falls onto his bed, and smiles. Tomorrow is a new day, and now that he knows what it feels like to kiss his future Adviser, he plans on finding out all the ways he can make Ignis make those deplorable noises again. Things have changed between the two of them - for better, or for worse, Noctis doesn’t know. What he does know is that he has the best friends on the planet, and can’t imagine living this life without any of them in it. Especially Ignis, who has made a claim on his soul and will forever own it. 

--- Cross-posted to AO3

[oceansssblue]

~ [MAGICAL CREATURES SERIES] – THE BAD BATCH AU (N4)

Pt3. "THE SMELL OF FIRE" HUNTER/PHOENIX!OFC

THERE'S SOMETHING STRANGE HAPPENING IN THE SMALL MOON PLACED ON THE EDGES OF THE GALAXY WITH THE UNKOWN REGIONS. THEIR PEOPLE ARE RESERVED AND SECRETIVE; TRYING TO APPEAR NORMAL, THOUGH HUNTER HEAVILY SUSPECTS THEY AREN'T. HIS NOSE EASILY PICKS UP THE SMELL OF ASH AND FIRE.

WARNINGS (pt3): NONE, JUST FLUFF. 💖

Link for part 1:

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Hunter had had enough. The rest of the Batch seemed to be perfectly fine with their fourth week in Aodh; but after a whole month of it's secretive –although polite– people, the clone sargent had had enough. He couldn't trust them. Couldn't trust Alinta; no matter how soft her expression turned when she looked after her father or when the kids from the tribe ran up to talk to her. He couldn't help but feel he was just waiting for the ticking bomb to explode; for them to finally reveal themselves. For something bad to happen; and he wasn't –couldn't– see his family hurt.

Hunter directly confronted her. It was night when he followed her to the cabin Alinta shared with her father; Aodh's quietness putting his tracking skills to test. His steps were cautious on the moon's silvery sand; not wanting to be caught by the perceptive woman. It was only when they were both sufficiently separated from the rest of the tribe when Hunter striked; pushing her against a tree with both hands firmly pressed against her shoulders. Alinta's face morphed from instinctual agression towards bewildered confusion.

Hunter's deep raspy voice cut through the silence of the night; tone just as firm as his hands.

"I'm tired of games" he growled. "You're going to tell me what your tribe is hiding. Why you all smell like you do without any sort of fire around us. I've been patient. But I'm not letting my family stay this close to your people anymore without a honest answer. And don't try to lie to me. I'll know".

An amused smirk made it's way through Alinta's face. She should have guessed the man wouldn't have been able to reign the ignorance in any longer.

Well, if he wanted the truth, the truth he will have.

It happened so fast Hunter had barely had a few seconds to analyse the animal that transformed in front of him before Alinta was back in her original shape. It was a bird with the size of half of the Marauder; central body almost black while the feathers of the wings and tail turned to a mix of vibrant oranges, yellows and reds. The animal preserved Alinta's burning red gaze and her fiery hair was represented by the scarlet red feathers on the dorso of the bird's head and neck. It had strong sharp claws and a powerful beak. And it had seemed to almost shine in the darkness of Aodh's night.

Hunter, still sprawled on the ground to where he had been pushed by Alinta's sudden transformation, stared at her human form with wide eyes.

"W-what... What are you?" He finally managed to ask.

He felt divided between astonishment, wonder, and fear. Alinta seemed to notice this and replied in a calm, soothing voice. For once, she didn't seem to find the clone's feelings entertaining. The truth was that the woman had actually started to enjoy Hunter's distrustful but gentle and interesting presence; and she didn't want to cause havoc.

"Ignis-su Bennu" she answered, in her own melodic language. "Tribe think we born of fire spirit. Two body, one soul. A small part of Bennu spirit in all tribe".

Hunter frowned. He couldn't shake his surprise yet, and more questions arised in his head. Tech was going to have a field work day when he found out.

"Okay... But you're not the same as the rest of your tribe, right?" Hunter slowly stood up again, not bothering to shake the sand off while he kept his mesmerised eyes on her. "You smell different. You feel different. I... don't really know how to explain it. There's something, some... Energy, alive inside of you. It's not on the rest".

Alinta smiled. The man was just as perceptive as she had previously guessed. It was an attractive feature.

"Yes, I different. Tribe Ignis Bennu. Me Ignis su. No more su in tribe, only one in..." Alinta paused, brow deepening in sudden frustration. She made a circular gesture with her index, and added a confused "very year?" that inevitably pulled a tiny soft smile from Hunter.

"Decade?" Was his first guess, bringing up his ten fingers, but the woman shook her head.

"Baby. One of this" she paused. "That baby has a baby. Another one of this. You get me?"

"Generation" Hunter realized. "There's only one of your type per generation".

Alinta sighed in relief and nodded. Hunter's chocolate eyes curiously swiped over her.

"And what's exactly the difference?"

Alinta swayed in her feet in a nervous gesture. Hunter noticed the change in her openness, and reigned in the need to reassure her.

"Me play fire" she explained. "Egon says Bennu pick me. Much respect here".

Hunter's face morphed to surprise once again. Not only she transformed into a... –phoenix of sorts?–, but also controled fire?

"Can you show me?"

It wasn't that he didn't believe her. Hell, he'd probably believe everything at that moment. He just wanted to see it. Felt intrigued by it.

Alinta's nervousness only increased; but she gave him a quick reluctant nod and extended her hand towards him, palm facing up. Her intimidating red eyes burned brighter and a small fire danced in her hand. The flames didn't float over her palm; but seemed to grow directly from within her skin, as if it came from inside of her. Hunter gasped and watched.

Alinta turned the flames off with a deep sigh. Hunter read the tired posture of her muscles and the relief in her face.

"Does it hurt?" He inevitably worried.

The woman shook her head, her short red hair flying to the sides once again.

"No. No hurt. I..." she paused. It felt like she was going to add something else, give him a deeper explanation; but she nibbled on her lower lip with her small sharp fangs and backtracked. "No hurt, Hunter".

The clone decided to let it pass. She had already revealed too much of herself to him that night; there was no necessity to push her further.

"Can you use your fire outside of your body? Like... Throw it, or something?" He felt silly asking, but he wanted to know.

Alinta nodded.

Hunter hesitated.

"Is that... Is your power the reason why your skin feels warmer, too?"

As in trying to mock his words –or maybe herself–, the woman's cheeks slightly redenned under her pale grey skin. She had enjoyed the small fleeting ocasional contact with the man's hands, arms, or thighs –while they both watched the kids from her tribe playing sitting besides each other–; but Alinta hadn't realised he had taken note of that. It somehow felt intimate, vulnerable, coming from his lips. Alinta's red eyes unconsciously flickered towards them.

"Yes. I... burn. Can make my skin warmer until pain to touch. Sometimes..." she looked down towards the sand as if ashamed with herself. "Sometimes hard to control skin with feelings".

"As in you can accidentally burn someone if you get angry or sad?" The words were out of his mouth before Hunter could process them.

Alinta's back straightened and a haunted sadness and that same nervous energy returned full force to her. She silently nodded, and Hunter swore to himself. Was that what had happened with his father?

"Hey, I'm..." he carefully and slowly reached for her hand. "I'm sorry".

Alinta's red eyes somehow seemed innocently young when she looked up at him in surprise. Hunter remembered she wasn't that much older than him. Her tribe treated her with so much respect and reverence that sometimes it was easy to forget that fact. Had it... Had it been difficult for her to live as a child, as the young adult she had just turned to, as well? With all that expectation directed towards her?

Hunter's thumb had gently swiped comfortingly over her skin before he had the change to analyse his movements. Alinta's red eyes traveled towards their jointed hands and back up to his eyes again. Hunter's expression was opened towards her. The woman relaxed and sighed.

Carefully, almost expectantly, she squeezed her hand around his; a tiny smile popping in her face when he answered the gesture.

Hunter's heart beated harder on his chest.

His voice was a whisper. Although it put him on the spot, it made him vulnerable, exposed, he needed to know.

"Why do I feel this... conexion with you?"

It was Alinta's turn to experience shock. It quickly softened to a warm shy understanding; her skin slowly heating under his touch.

"You... Feel things better" she tried to explain, remembering Tech's explanation on the Batch's unique abilities. "Egon say fire spirit in all galaxy people, only more small than us. I think your small part of spirit fire can feel... can call my part because your..."

"Because my abilities make me reach into energies around me better than anyone else" he finished for her, nodding in understanding. "I get what you're saying".

They kept looking at each other for several seconds; Hunter humming distractedly at Alinta's warming skin under his fingers. He glanced at her, and a shy smile formed on her lips.

Reluctantly, he let her hand drop from his.

"Have you heard of the Force?" Alinta denied it, and Hunter tried to explain it in a simple way. "Jedis... Said there are this midiclorians inside of us, inside of every living being in the galaxy, that conects us together. Some have the ability to use them and... Exteriorize them in various shapes. They're able to heal others in ways I've never seen, and to feel things normal people can't, because this midiclorians are abnormally high in them. I wonder... I wonder if it's the same thing. If Egon and your tribe have named the Force as that fire spirit, Bennu, and your people have just found the way to exteriorize it in new ways".

Alinta seemed deep in thought for one minute, pondering his theory; before her eyes turned dark with worry and a cautious warning escaped her lips.

"You no tell others. Yes family, no others. Of my people" she pointed out. "We safe here. Had war with other stars in old times. They try have our fire. We need to be safe".

Hunter understood the secrecy right then and there. He wasn't surprised others had tried to study them, use their power. He inmediately thought of the Empire.

"I won't" he promised, and Alinta sighed in relief.

Hunter still had questions without an answer. Which stars did she refer to, other planets in the Unkown Regions and civilizations they weren't aware that existed? How long ago had that been? What other beliefs did her people have? What had exactly happened with her father? Did... Did she feel that call towards him, as well?

Alinta's warm hand grazed his shoulder in a quiet tentative goodbye and Hunter watched her dissapear in the forest, towards her cabin.

He sighed. At least the cat was out of the bag.

END OF PART THREE

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

PART FOUR HERE:

HERE WE HAVE THE THIRD PART OF OUR HUNTER/PHOENIX STORY GUYS!! IT TOOK ME A BIT LONGER TO PUBLISH CAUSE I'VE BEEN STRUGGLING WITH SAD-HAPPY-SAD LATELY SO I DIDN'T FEEL VERY MOTIVATED TO WRITE. BUT HERE IT ISSS! THE SECRET IS OUT OF THE BOX AND HUNTER FINALLY KNOWSS. FEELINGS SLOWLY GROWING BETWEEN THEM AS WELL.

WE'VE GOT THREE MORE CHAPTERS TO FINISH THIS ARCH! WE'RE GONNA HAVE SOME MORE DEVELOPING FLUFF FOR CHAPTER 4, ACTION FOR 5, AND A HAPPY ENDING AT 6!

I HOPE YOU'VE LIKED THIS PART AND THIS STORY SO FAR. PLEASE LET ME KNOW! HELPS SO MUCH. REBLOG IF U CAN!

IF YOU WANT TO BE TAGGED ON THIS OR ANY OF MY STORIES LET ME KNOW.

REMEMBER ENGLISH IS NOT MY FIRST LENGUAGE SO FORGIVE MY MISTAKES!

Xx,

Sky.

Back to general masterlist here:

Back to magical creature series here:

[kayte-overmoon]

An excerpt from my Geraskier ABO Pregnancy AU

I'm still working on this fic (it's a big one) but I wanted to give you all SOMETHING, so here's a little (3.5k-word) excerpt to tide you over!

Rating: Mature (no explicit sexual content, but it's fairly suggestive)

Tags: fluff, mild angst, platonic affection, idiots in love, pregnant Jaskier, mpreg, ABO/Omegaverse, canon era

Jaskier is soaking in an Igni-heated bath barely big enough for him to fit in. He doesn’t seem to mind, kicking his feet up over the far edge as he rests his head on the other end. 

“As much as I hate you spending all our money on inns,” he’s saying, eyes closed as Geralt cleans his swords. “I do appreciate a good soak in a man-made basin every now and then.”

“I know you do,” Geralt says, half a smile on his face for a moment before it drops. There’s something on his mind, something that’s been bugging him since the moment he decided to keep Jaskier. 

“Now, now, witcher,” Jaskier tsks. “What’s the frown for this time?”

Geralt sets aside his swords and looks at his companion. Jaskier has twisted his torso to see Geralt better, arms crossed on the side of the basin and chin propped up on them, watching Geralt with wide, amused blue eyes. Geralt no longer bristles at the bard’s nudity—a good thing, because he tends toward heat spells these days, and often the only way to cool down is to strip to the skin. They’ve had a good couple of weeks of work, so his cheeks are full and pinked with the heat from the bath. He could use a shave, but other than that, he looks good.

Geralt looks down at his own hands. “We should talk. About our arrangement.”

“I wasn’t aware we had an arrangement.”

Geralt rolls his eyes, watching the omega smile out of the corner of his eye. “I mean our situation.” He looks up and meets Jaskier’s eye again. “You can’t keep traveling like this, Jask. We need to get you somewhere safe. Comfortable.”

“But I am safe,” Jaskier pouts. “I feel safer with you than I do anywhere else.”

“That’s the problem, little lark,” Geralt says, the endearment spilling from his lips like water. Every time he calls him that, Jaskier’s shoulders relax like Geralt’s taken a great weight off them. He makes it a point to do it as frequently as possible now. “I told you before, the Path is no place for a child. And all that aside, you’re going to keep getting sicker if we don’t let you rest.”

Jaskier waves him off, sinking back into his bath. “You worry too much.”

“No, you don’t worry enough!”

The omega flinches at his tone, glaring at him from the corner of his eye. 

Geralt sighs, looking at him apologetically. “I just mean you should take care, Jaskier. If you’re this ill barely a third of the way into your pregnancy, what do you expect to happen later on?”

“I’m not that ill.”

Geralt scoffs. “You turned down a minced pie today, Jaskier.”

He purses his lips, caught. “Fine. You’re getting rid of me, then?”

Geralt should take it for the opening it is. He knows how dangerous traveling with him is for Jaskier. How much worse will it get when he has a child at his breast? Geralt’s new worst nightmare had quickly become returning from a hunt to find Jaskier taken, hurt, beaten, ripped apart and sold for parts. And besides all that, it was becoming dangerous for Geralt. He’s never been so attached to someone—perhaps Eskel or Vesemir, but they know the dangers of their line of work and can fend for themselves. It’s hard to focus on monster hunting when half his mind is preoccupied with the omega waiting for him back at the inn. 

A distracted witcher is a dead witcher.

“No,” Geralt says, not even surprising himself.

There’s no question. He physically can’t bring himself to let Jaskier go. He’s tried considering it a time or two in the months they’ve been together, and each time, his stomach ties itself in knots.

The omega relaxes in the tub. “Good. Because as much as I love you, Geralt, there are some things even you can do to break my heart.”

His tone is light, teasing, and he doesn’t seem to realize the impact the words have on Geralt.

He’s still reeling from those words (I love you echoing in his mind) when Jaskier finally pulls himself from the bath, dripping wet, pruned, and smelling of chamomile. Perhaps the sight, perhaps the smell, perhaps those words muddle his mind enough for Geralt to blurt out, “Come to Kaer Morhen with me.”

Jaskier blinks up at him from the towel he’d been drying himself with, his hair tufted up on one side from where he’d rubbed it. “Kaer Morhen?”

“The homeplace of the witchers,” Geralt explains. “The wolf witchers, at least. It’s where I grew up. It’s where I—where we go every winter.”

“And you… want me to come with you?”

“Is that… is that alright? For me to ask?”

Jaskier chuckles and comes to where Geralt is sitting at the edge of the bed—there’s only one, since they’re on a strict budget, after all—and insinuates himself between Geralt’s knees. He doesn’t even seem to be aware of his nudity. Geralt decidedly is aware of it. “Dear witcher,” Jaskier says fondly. His hands land on either of Geralt’s shoulders and his scent, warm and happy, surrounds Geralt’s senses. “Never doubt how much your generosity means to me. It sounds lovely, but…”

“But?” Geralt gives into temptation, lets his hands settle in the dip of Jaskier’s hips, his wrists almost brushing the soft skin of his ever-growing belly. Some deep, base instinct makes him want to rub his scent glands over Jaskier’s bump, to claim him and the pup as Geralt’s. He digs his fingers into his bard’s hips to keep from doing that. He hasn’t been given permission. Jaskier has given no indication that he sees Geralt as anything more than a close friend, a platonic person who could protect him and his pup. The last thing Geralt wants is to breach his trust.

Jaskier purrs softly, not seeming to realize he’s doing it. He fiddles with Geralt’s hair. “I feel as if I’m taking advantage of you.”

Geralt snorts. “Trust me, if I didn’t want you here, I would have dumped you before we even left Posada.”

The bard tips his head and smiles and gods above Geralt just wants to pull him into his lap and press his face against his neck where his scent is strongest. Still grinning, Jaskier asks, “Why do you put up with me, witcher? You don’t seem the type to form attachments.”

“I’m not.”

“And yet… here we are.”

Geralt observes him carefully in the candlelight. “Here we are.” He drags his thumb absently across Jaskier’s ribs, watching goosebumps rise in his wake. Jaskier takes a breath at that, pulling himself away from Geralt to continue drying and dressing himself. Geralt mourns the loss of his touch but lets him go.

“So.” Jaskier twists open a jar of sweet-smelling oil he’d been rubbing on his belly of late. I may adore this child with every fiber of my being, Geralt, but that does not mean I wish to have the marks of pregnancy on my youthful form for the rest of eternity. “Kaer Morhen?”

“Mmm.” Geralt picks up his swords again, going about cleaning and sharpening them absently while he watches Jaskier go about his routine. “Vesemir will be there. He’s a healer, of sorts. He could help with the delivery. Or we could bring someone if you like. A midwife of your choosing.”

Jaskier hums back at him, a mannerism he’s beginning to pick up from Geralt without even realizing it. “Vesemir?”

“My… father, I suppose.” At the omega’s inquisitive look, he goes on. “Witchers are born human and come—came, rather—to the keep when they were young. Many were orphans. Some… weren’t.” Jaskier clearly catches on but graciously deigns not to dig in. “Vesemir was one of the teachers before the sacking of Kaer Morhen, when mages destroyed all knowledge of making new witchers and killed all but a handful of us. Vesemir is the oldest living witcher. He took it upon himself to care for the keep and the last few witchers.”

“You speak fondly of him,” Jaskier says. “Are you close?”

Geralt grunts, not in agreement or disagreement. “I suppose. As close as witchers let themselves get. We have a lot in common. All the witchers left do. No one quite understands the life of a witcher more than another witcher.”

“How many of you are there left?”

“Of my school, the wolf witchers”—he thumbs his medallion—“there’s only me, Vesemir, and my brothers Eskel and Lambert. There are several others left from other schools, but we’re not nearly as close.”

“So, this winter,” Jaskier says. “Would it just be us and Vesemir? Or will your brothers be there?”

“Hard to tell,” Geralt shrugs. “We usually don’t know who’s going to show up until they arrive at the keep. The past couple years, Lambert has brought a guest.”

Dark eyebrows rise as Jaskier slips into a clean change of smallclothes. “A guest? Then it won’t be strange if I come?”

Geralt snorts. “No, it will be strange. Lambert’s guest is a witcher from one of the other schools.” He meets Jaskier’s eye. “None of us have ever brought home a human. Not since it’s just been the four of us.”

“Let alone a pregnant omega?” Jaskier snorts. He flicks a wrist, playing at being scandalized. “Imagine what they’ll say, Geralt! They’ll accuse you of stealing my virtue!”

Geralt rolls his eyes. “As if you had any to begin with.”

Jaskier gasps, clutching his chest. “You wound me, darling. I’ll have you know I was the picture of innocence before—well, before this.” The hand at his chest smooths over his stomach as he looks down fondly.

Geralt hums in response, languishing in the omega’s happy scent as he strokes his baby bump. “They’ll know it’s not mine anyway.”

“How so?”

“Witchers are sterile,” Geralt says. He expects the shocked, saddened look Jaskier shoots his way, and waves him off. “I’m not sensitive about it. It’s part of the Trials to become a witcher, and they don’t hide the information from us beforehand. We go in knowing we will either die in the trials or come out the other side an alpha with no ability to breed.”

“Oh.” Jaskier wilts a little, his scent—usually a mix of honey and lilies—dips toward something like sandalwood. “I’m sorry, Geralt.”

“It’s not your fault, Jask.”

“No, I mean.” He throws his chemise over his head and scrambles up onto the bed with Geralt, laying his head on the witcher’s shoulder with no regard for the sword in his hands. Again, that blind trust that makes Geralt wonder what he did to deserve it. “Here I am, running around and making poor life decisions while carrying a pup, and you can’t…”

“Jask.” Geralt nuzzles his hair absently to get his attention. The omega tips his head up to look at him with watery blue eyes. Geralt sets the sword aside—again—and resolves to finish it in the morning. “I told you, I don’t care. Especially not when I get to see how happy you are every day.”

Jaskier squints, mushing his cheek against Geralt’s shoulder, looking every bit like a contented house cat. “I am happy. I feel as if I should be worried or anxious or afraid, but I’m not. I have many regrets in my life, but this is not one of them. I’m glad I have the pup. I’m glad I have my freedom. I’m glad I have you. You’re a dear friend, you know that, Geralt?”

Geralt grunts.

“You are!” Jaskier shoves his arm gently, not even enough to dislodge himself from Geralt’s shoulder. “Not many people would be willing to put up with me, with or without the child. And here you are, not just tolerating me, but taking care of me. Why is that?”

Geralt shrugs with his free shoulder.

“Oh, don’t get silent on me now, Geralt! We’re having a heart-to-heart!”

“Exactly.”

“Ugh!” Jaskier flings himself back on the bed, kneeing Geralt in the thigh as he squirms to get comfortable. Geralt pinches his leg in retaliation, making him giggle. “Fine. Don’t tell me, then. I’ll just assume you are susceptible to my charm and wit. You saw me in Posada and thought, ‘Yes. Now there’s a man I’d let rub chamomile on my lovely bo—‘”

“It was one time, Jask.”

“One very memorable time, on my part.” Jaskier grins, cheeky and lecherous. With a face like that, there’s no wonder he was knocked up before the age of twenty. 

Geralt makes himself end that line of thought the second it arrives. 

Instead of admiring his friend’s fuckability, he grunts. “It’s not too late for me to leave you along the road somewhere.”

“No!” Jaskier wraps his arms around Geralt’s waist from behind, his head knocking against his hip. Geralt twists to accommodate him, letting the bard rest his head in his lap. “I’ll surely shrivel up and die the moment you leave me. You wouldn’t want that on your conscience, would you?”

“I think you overestimate how much you need me. You’d make it just fine on your own.”

The omega tips his head to level an unimpressed look up at him. “When we met, I was getting booed out of taverns and stuffing bread in my pants so I’d have something to eat later.”

Geralt just hums.

Jaskier pokes him in the side. “I’m happy with you, Geralt. It’s a peculiar arrangement, but I couldn’t ask for anything better.”

Geralt watches him for a moment, aware his face was probably too fond at the moment but too content with the omega’s closeness to care. “You pet your stomach when you’re tired, you know that?”

Jaskier looks down. Sure enough, his hand had strayed to the little bump and was smoothing over it. “I hadn’t noticed.”

“Winter isn’t for another two months still.”

“Very astute, love.”

Geralt snorts and tugs his hair until Jaskier yelps and bats his hands away. “I mean, I think we should find somewhere safe for you until it’s time to make the trip to Kaer Morhen.”

Jaskier frowns and turns to lay on his back, his head still in Geralt’s lap. The hand that had tugged his hair now smooths it back. “You want to split up?”

“Only for a couple weeks,” Geralt says. “The Path, as I’ve said, is no place for you right now. You’re only going to get more uncomfortable in the coming months, and you need to be somewhere you can rest and relax. It would… I would never forgive myself if anything happened to you or the pup because you’re with me.”

“What do you propose, then?”

“I can put you up somewhere. Somewhere with good weather and plenty of things for you to do. Somewhere you can relax and pick at that lute you’ve barely touched the past few weeks.”

Jaskier frowns. “Fingers were too swollen.”

“The swelling will go down if you rest.” Geralt leans over him to catch his eye. “And as much as I love having you close, knowing you and the pup are safe and healthy, I’d feel better knowing you were somewhere you can get warm baths and hot food whenever you want.”

“How do you propose we do that, hmm? It isn’t as if we have the money.”

Geralt puts a hand on Jaskier’s chest to hold him steady as he reaches over the edge of the bed for his sword. He unclasps the pin there, the one he’d pulled from Renfri’s body as a reminder all those years ago. He holds it out for Jaskier. 

The bard takes it and studies it. “I’ve seen this but didn’t want to ask.” His thumb runs carefully across the clasp. “I figured it was sentimental. It’s fine craftsmanship. I’m sure it would sell for a pretty penny, if that’s what you’re suggesting.”

“It is,” Geralt says. “I’m not sentimental. The person who gave it to me is long dead. It was more of a… reminder to myself, than anything else. I don’t…” He looks at Jaskier. The bard was now holding the hand Geralt had put on his chest, stroking his wrist softly as he watches Geralt with those wide, innocent eyes. “I don’t think I need it anymore.”

Jaskier’s heart rate spikes for a moment as he turns the pin over in his hand, pink flushing his cheeks. “If you’re sure,” he says. “I don’t want you giving up any more than you already have for me, Geralt. I’ll never be able to repay you for your kindness.”

“I’m not doing this so you’ll pay me back.”

“Then why are you?”

The same question from earlier, just rephrased. Glancing at Jaskier, Geralt knows he did it on purpose. Geralt sighs and takes the pin back, just to give himself something to do. “Because you’re special, Jask.” The bard beams, and Geralt nudges him softly. “Don’t let it go to your head. I’m going to sell this so you don’t freeze or go hungry while I’m gone. I’ll let you pick the town.”

“Oxenfurt,” he says without hesitation.

Geralt frowns. “Why Oxenfurt?”

“I’ve got friends there, at the university,” Jaskier explains. “I know at least one of them will put me up, especially if I pay for food and whatever other expenses I’ll have.”

“How do you know these friends?”

“Stand down, guard dog,” Jaskier chuckles. “We grew up together. Priscilla was from a neighboring family, and we were the same age, so we always sat together at parties. She is kind, and generous, and happily bonded to her alpha, Philippa.” He gives Geralt a significant look and Geralt stops bristling—which he didn’t even realize he was doing. “They’re good friends, Geralt. They’ll ensure I’m looked after while you’re gone.”

Geralt nods, smoothing a hand down Jaskier’s chest. His gaze strays to the little bump on the bard’s belly, where Jaskier is still stroking.

“You want to feel?” the omega offers. “Pup won’t be moving for a couple months, probably, but it’s a fascinating feeling.”

“I don’t want to hurt you.”

“Oh, Geralt.” Jaskier takes his hand and lifts his chemise, letting Geralt finally rest his palm over the little swell beneath his navel. His skin is hot and smooth, little divots where his skin has begun stretching to accommodate the life growing beneath the surface. It’s not big—Geralt’s hand covers the full expanse of it—but it feels significant. If he focuses, he can feel the vibrations of the pup’s heartbeat. His breath leaves him in a rush. 

“What?” Jaskier asks in quiet alarm. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong,” Geralt says. He strokes his hand across Jaskier’s belly gently, soothing him in and taking in the feel. “I can feel their heartbeat.”

“Really?” Jaskier slips his hand under Geralt’s, brows drawing in with the effort of trying. 

Geralt chuckles softly at him. “You won’t be able to. Witcher senses.”

“Oh, Geralt,” Jaskier squeaks. The scent of tears alerts Geralt to his sudden burst of emotion.

“Jaskier?” He shifts around so the bard is no longer on his lap and leans over him, one hand still on his belly and the other on the bed. “Jaskier, what’s wrong? Are you in pain?”

“No, no.” Jaskier gives a shaky laugh and wipes his face with the hand not trapped under Geralt’s. “I’m fine. Just… overwhelmed.”

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” He flips his hand over to catch Geralt’s fingers in his. “That was the greatest gift you could give me. Guh.” He gives a mighty, nasty sniff that makes Geralt laugh. “Shut up. Don’t make fun of a poor, pregnant omega.”

“I would never.” Geralt raises their joined hands to his lips before he even realizes what he’s doing and presses a kiss to the omega’s knuckles. Jaskier’s cheeks turn pink and his scent takes a sultry spike that Geralt doesn’t let himself linger on. “So, we’re agreed? Tomorrow we leave for Oxenfurt, where you’ll stay with your friends if they’ll have you. I’ll return for you in two months when it’s time to make the trip up the Blue Mountains. We’ll spend the winter in Kaer Morhen until the pup arrives, then we stay as long as you need to recover.”

Jaskier blinks up at him. “We… you mean you intend to keep me around after the pup arrives?”

“Of course,” Geralt says, though he hadn’t put much thought to it before. All he knew was that there was no way he was willing to part with his omega. 

No, not his omega. Just Jaskier. Jaskier, who happened to be an omega. Jaskier, who was carrying another alpha’s pup. 

Jaskier can’t seem to find words—a rare occurrence for him—so he just pulls Geralt down into a crushing hug. Geralt keeps himself up, afraid to put too much weight on the bard. “Thank you,” Jaskier whispers, a fresh wave of tears spilling from his eyes and smearing all over both of them. “Thank you, thank you.”

[love-bokumono-fics]

Fresh Crops! July 22 - July 31, 2024

The newest fics and chapter updates for Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons from the last weeks of July!

Yuzuki’s Tennyo - by TwinklingCupcake; Complete, 1/1, 1.1k

Rating: General Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: F/M Fandoms: Trio of Towns Relationships: Female Farmer/Yuzuki; Characters: Yuzuki, Female Farmer Additional Tags: Fairy Tale Elements, First Meetings, Attraction at first sight, Established Relationship, Married Couple Summary: Yuzuki tells Holly about the day he stumbled into a familiar fairy tale and saw a celestial maiden in the crossroads’ pond.

The Chime Hours of Forgotten Valley - by actaeoncross; WIP, 3/?, 5.2k

Rating: Not Rated; Archive Warning: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings; Category: F/M Fandoms: Friends of Mineral Town, A Wonderful Life, DS Cute Relationships: Daryl/Pony | Aya | Jill, Marlin | Matthew/Pony | Aya | Jill, Cody | Gordy/Pony | Aya | Jill, Gray/Pony | Aya | Jill, Rick/Pony | Aya | Jill, Gustafa/Pony | Aya | Jill, Pony | Aya | Jill/Rock, Kai/Pony | Aya | Jill, Cliff/Pony | Aya | Jill, Dotor | Trent/Pony | Aya | Jill, Carter the Pastor/Pony | Aya | Jill, Claire the Farmer/Gray, Claire the Farmer/Doctor Trent | Torre, Claire the Farmer/Rick, Claire the Farmer/Cliff, Claire the Farmer/Kai, Carter the Pastor/Claire the Farmer, Claire the Farmer/Daryl, Claire the Farmer/Marlin | Matthew, Claire the Farmer/Cody | Gordy, Claire the Farmer/Gustafa, Claire the Farmer/Rock; Characters: Cody | Gordy, Marlin | Matthew, Daryl, Carter the Pastor, Gray, Rick, Gustafa, Kai. Doctor | Trent, Cliff, Rock, Claire the Farmer, Pony | Aya | Jill Summary: An idea from thinking about what if Harvest Moon/Story of Seasons was a fairytale otome.

Don't Eat Flowers - by Maymist; Complete, 25/25, 52k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: F/F Fandoms: A Wonderful Life, DS Cute Relationship: Nami/Pony | Aya | Jill; Characters: Nami, Pony | Aya | Jill, Rock, Reader Additional Tags: Lesbian Character, Inspired by Harvest Moon/Story of Seasons, Mentions of Other Harvest Moon/Story of Seasons Games, Blue Feather, Romance, LGBTQ Character, POV Lesbian Character, Canon Lesbian Relationship Summary: The new farmer girl in Forgotten Valley attempts to give Nami some flowers to, er… totally give the hint that she's romantically interested in the very much reserved tomboyish red-head. Nami completely jumps to conclusions and misunderstands though, and that's where this silly romance begins. What kind of other madness will ensue?

Marmalade - by ginnekomiko; Complete, 1/1, <1k

Rating: General Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: Gen Fandom: Animal Parade Characters: Maya, Chase, Molly the Farmer Summary: Chase gets a jar of marmalade.

Welcome To Fairy Tale - (Please Show Me Your Best Smile) - by dazedpancakes; WIP, 1/2, 2.8k

Rating: General Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: M/M Fandoms: Sunshine Islands, Island of Happiness Relationship: Will/Pierre; Characters: Will, Pierre Additional Tags: Fluff, Baking, Recipes, Digital Art, Awkward Dates, Pre-Relationship, Love Confessions, Idiots in Love, they share a singular braincell, pierre knows nothing, will knows absolutely nothing, Other Additional Tags to Be Added Summary: The Starry Night Festival is usually celebrated with your romantic partner. Tonight's a little different for the two boys, however.

A Story of Seasons: The Story of Jill | Volume I: Spring - by Celeste_Adia; Complete, 19/19, 88k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: Gen Fandoms: DS Cute, A Wonderful Life, Friends of Mineral Town Characters: Pony | Aya | Jill, Takakura, Harvest Goddess, Witch Princess, Harvest Sprites, Harvest King Ignis, Pete | Jack Summary: Juliana "Jill" Evergreene is a 19-year-old girl who leaves her life in the city to live in the countryside to escape her unfulfilling life. She leaves with a family friend named Takakura, and he takes her to Forgotten Valley, locally known as Forget-Me-Not Valley. However, there was a tidbit of information she wasn't aware of: She actually inherited her late father's farm! Jill's mother, Juliet, summons the spiritual guardian of the valley, the Harvest Goddess, to support her. Unfortunately, time has made the Goddess quite fickle, and she is punished and sent to another world for her unwillingness to help such an unmotivated girl. Her subjects, the Harvest Sprites, are also sent away, which causes imbalances across the land. As the consequences of her actions pile up, will Jill find the strength to continue her father's legacy and save the Goddess and her sprites from purgatory?

Runaway - by almakazam; WIP, 8/?, 67k

Rating: Mature; Archive Warning: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings; Categories: F/M, Gen, Other Fandoms: Back To Nature, Friends of Mineral Town, DS Cute Relationships: Claire the Farmer/Kai, Claire the Farmer & Kai; Characters: Claire the Farmer, Kai, Pete | Jack, Marlin | Matthew, Pony | Aya | Jill, Popuri, Gray, Mary the Librarian | Marie, Ann the Innkeeper | Ran, Cliff, Karen, Rick, Elli | Elly, Doctor | Trent Additional Tags: Runaway, Drama & Romance, Romance, Family Drama, Family Issues, Slow Burn, Double Life, Heir & Heiress, Childhood Trauma, Past Character Death, Based On Original Harvest Moon Games, Running Away, Arranged Marriage, Forced Marriage, Cruise Ships, Shipwrecks, Near Death Experiences, Drowning, Implied/Referenced Character Death, Other Ships Not Mentioned in Tags, Strangers to Lovers, Friends to Lovers, Hurt/Comfort, Character Development, Slice of Life, 1990s, Light Angst, Friendship, Developing Friendships, Character Study Summary: Claire has always played the part of the perfect daughter, but behind the façade lies years of control and frustration. It all finally comes to a head when her father ends her engagement and arranges a new marriage to a man she doesn't know, ultimately pushing her to run away. Little did she know that her new groom-to-be is also planning his own escape.

Two Not Safe for Tumblr fics by Thefallen1986 titled: Caught Andy and Jennifer's natural treats

[alessabriel]

Welcome |Lio Fotia × Reader Fem|.

Summary: Mad burnish dissolved like flames against the wind and the Burnishs struggle with the daily life of normality, they were finally considered human. Why was it so hard?

Cw. angst, fluff, etc.

✄–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Normality slowly settled after the combustion that had consumed the entire planet to make way for the separation of Burnish's life species from humans, it was both a blessing and an official declaration of a humanity taken from those who randomly did combustion.

They woke up without hearing the voices asking them to burn more intensely.

He was genuinely strange, more than welcome but strange nonetheless. Even more so for those who had fought all their lives to control their flames, to retain them deep within their being and continue to be human. The comfort of not supporting the intensity of some flames that were crying out to come out was painful.

That present tasted bitter.

Lio had simply had it easy to carry on with her life, he had been almost cornered in the fire rescue team at the request of the Leader and Captain; Ignis after seeing her potential, which still left a bad taste in his mouth. It hadn't been fighting potential or anything, it had been his feelings and instincts that had come to the surface irremediably in the form of flames that she couldn't control, not when Kray had taken everything from her hands; friends, colleagues, family and partner. Her hatred for Kray had taken her peace of mind out of her veins, because she no longer had anything to lose. If Ignis realized his own mental debate at that moment, he didn't utter a single word, he didn't ask him to think about it and he didn't give him time to decide, there was only that opportunity to continue, he had lived with Burnish's fire since he he had a memory and dealing with actual fire was an afterthought.

They were calm days only with occasional breezes and drizzle, some fire a day or week.

He found himself in a terrain whose characteristics he had completely forgotten, it was impossible for him not to remember the fire vibrating in his veins and the voices asking him to burn more, to burn as much as possible. He now understood that they were lives crying out to return home, the same house from which his own fire snatched him away forever.

Even to this day, there was that itch on his skin now without fire and that he could never soothe even if he ripped the skin off. The fresh rejection of his own biological family, the loving words of who remained a part of his soul and the hatred towards those who differentiated them from humans, always in his imperturbable and semi-permanent memory. No outing of hers with her new colleagues and friends could silence those memories, only her voice could, only her had that effect.

And she had not seen her since they had to separate again before finding Guiera and Meis.

It was something I couldn't stop thinking about, couldn't stop searching the sea of ​​faces (which I still hated) for their unforgettable features and searching for their specific tone of voice, paying attention to the white noise around them in the hope of coming back to it. find her. Even when his old group continued looking for her, they couldn't find her, and he had so many people he helped (he couldn't give a face to each of them) willing to help him as he had, and he thought that if there were more people from all over the world world searching would be faster.

He was irrevocably, unequivocally, hopelessly wrong.

He felt faint when he thought he saw her, when his mind betrayed him and exactly replicated her tone of voice, how it reproduced and replicated her laughter at random moments, how it made him believe he saw the exact color of her eyes in someone else's eyes. He was going crazy, and no one could understand the depth of his dilemma if they tried.

Varys had spoken to him after one of the first real fires they attended to after their integration, congratulating him on his quick action and the ease with which he dealt with situations of imminent risk (he bit his tongue not to say that this was how he dealt with himself at the same time). beginning), culminating with words that gave him some peace of mind at that moment; everything will fall into place and that pain will calm down.

I appreciate it.

Remi had been more pragmatic and direct, he had congratulated him on returning to a normal life and told him that he would understand if something was difficult for him both at work and socially speaking, it was strange and somewhat awkward but hey, it was his best attempt at seem.

He was fine, uncomfortable but fine.

Aina treated him as if they were lifelong friends, normally and carelessly, as if he were just another human (he hated how he still thought of himself as an outcast), he was gratifying but strange.

Strange but okay.

Ignis had stopped to listen to what he thought after the fire cases controlled by the rescue team and when he couldn't utter words he respected him, he only affirmed commenting that afterwards he would stop feeling numb and move forward without pain.

He never knew if his look was so incredulous and surprised, because he only received a half hug that he knew was bittersweet.

Lucia was easier to deal with, he never paid attention to her when she was a 'terrorist' for her it was still what it was (as strange as it was for hers) as long as he was still willing to try her inventions together Gallic.

Just fine, he had nothing to think or say. He was the one he felt most comfortable with and never scrutinized.

Galo was a completely different subject, he knew that he was not as stupid as he appeared and that he could see beyond the usual appearances of tranquility or disinterest in him, he knew it more, he never said anything, he only made him do more daily things together with everyone; go to the movies, to eat, for a walk, to the park, to go out alone to explore the city, to meet Guiera and Meis after everything that happened, and I also encourage him to have a pet, one that he adopted after a fire, a puppy abandoned by its owners in the fire that unfortunately lost a paw because it had been crushed by a burning piece of furniture that fell on it.

He had begun to live his normality in the company of Tandem, his new company.

It was strange living normally and not having her by his side, after all the promises they had made to each other, those nights when they had taken a few minutes to doze and relax against each other's bodies, daydreaming about the vine they hoped they could have someday. day; not having to run away and not having to see friends die again, being able to create a home, live, wake up and have breakfast together. They were dreams that he still remembered well, and how your voice was relaxing that night sleeping near a volcano to hide them. He lived those dreams with his Tandem friend who was happy when he came home and always waited for him, it was something that calmed his growing anxiety.

He until he found her.

They had responded to a fire call in a building, the fire was such that two rescue teams had been required, the fire and the medical training, apparently they were a team that had existed before the Burnish but was extinguished and returned now because the fire was normal and if it killed more people. The smoke was merciless with the equipment and more when any equipment did not extinguish the flames, with masks they had to enter to get the civilians they could but on the top floor there was only one person for which the medical rescuers came, all covered had descended from the sky to enter through the windows breaking them in the process so that the smoke could escape and give them entry to put out the fire, he went with Remy to look for more fire and put it out properly. Until the other team found injured people, out of the corner of my eye I managed to see how they became even faster to pull the less injured people towards Galo and Varys, the most injured had remained in the company of a single rescuer.

Both he and Remy watched as that rescuer did everything possible to return his pulse, even though the stretcher had been lifted by the other two who didn't flinch from the additional weight and advanced towards Aina who was waiting to take them down. And at that moment, he barely recognized her voice, as he gave shouted orders to the doctors waiting below before disappearing into the smoke. After putting out and putting out the fire, he didn't stay to listen to Ignis, he needed to know if it was her or not.

Aina and Galo watched him speed off on his motorcycle, leaving behind only his remaining equipment and a trail of dust in his wake. Nobody asked and they left him, it was the first time he did something moderately impulsive. However, the team couldn't help but worry about him, so they followed him from afar to the general hospital.

Lio almost left the motorcycle badly parked but he calmed down and left it well positioned, before entering the chaos that was the hospital with nurses and doctors running from one side to the other, treating the injured in the waiting room due to the crowding of everything and between So much chaos recognized her, she had her back to him, standing in front of a stretcher where she was attending to someone and she found nothing in herself to make herself known. He saw her in element, helping and helping people, and she shone like the sun itself. And when panic attacked her she turned around, she was able to admire her surprise in her look and since she got stuck in her place before reacting, by inertia she responded with a smile. She watched as the head medic smiled brightly before pulling her in her direction until they were face to face.

"Hello" "H-hey" they said at the same time.

She hugged him before letting her embarrassment win over her, she did not hesitate another second and did what I so hopefully can do again, feel him in her arms and listen to her breathing pattern, feeling her arms around her tightly and how she hid her face. on his neck, despite the height difference and the fact that he had to make an extra effort. She could smell the scent of smoke and sweat on hers, but there was still that unmistakable scent on her skin that she made him feel at home.

"I missed you so much, you don't know how much" Lio commented with a weak and stuck voice, refusing to let go.

Whether everyone or no one saw the couple hug each other tightly, no one said anything, they let them have their precious time together. Doctors and rescue team stayed away from them, by their appearances they deserved it.

"I missed you so much Lio, dear" she finally spoke with a shaky voice and strangled by the lump in her throat, before separating a little from Lio to cradle his face in her hands, feeling the texture of his skin and the exact color of her light hair "We don't have to part again, y-yes?"

Lio could only laugh, a broken and weak laugh, the first laugh she didn't feel was fake on her lips.

"I'll make sure of that love"

She just giggled before sealing her lips against the taller ones, unable to resist it any longer and devoting herself to savoring the smoke, heat and sweat on her lips slightly dry from the fire. They knew Lio, there was no doubt and it was finally in her hands, after months with the idea of ​​her disappearance and possible death of her.

"Welcome back honey"

Lio felt complete, how her being entered into peace and her concerns calmed her screams, finally he had her in front of him and he would refuse to leave her back, until she allowed it. There would not be a day where he did not love her.

Her new life was welcome with her by her side.

[ffxvficrec]

2023 IGNOCT GIFT EXCHANGE ROUND UP 1

You can also check out the collection here: https://archiveofourown.org/collections/ignoctgiftexchange2023

We’ve listed additional pairings, archive warnings, and ratings, but please remember to mind the tags!

whirlpool by DestiniDestati

Explicit Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

Maybe it was a little unconventional, how much Ignis loved his dear friend. Maybe he was a little too obsessed with marine biology (Noct's) and linguistics (Mers'), but it ended up getting him a good dicking, so.

Return to Sender by DistractedDream

Explicit Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

Ignis finds a package addressed to a stranger at his door. Delivering it to Noctis himself is only the polite thing to do. But when he finds out what's in the box, it might lead to so much more.

For Your Eyes Only by kikowithcatears

Teen Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

Ignis fixes Noctis' phone and accidentally discovers love letters the prince had written him. Not knowing if Noctis still feels this way for him, Ignis has to decide whether to pretend he never saw them or to face his fears and reveal the truth to him - that he's utterly, madly in love with his fishing obsessed best friend.

Coming to Your Aid by memoriesofrain

Teen Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

Finding themselves attacked by Magitek soldiers isn't out of the ordinary, but that doesn't make it any better after a long day of hunting. When Ignis gets hurt, Noctis let's it be known not to touch what's his.

Could There Be An...Us? by nychus

General Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

Having to accept his dynamic during the night was tough, but Ignis managed it the best he could while searching for a way to keep Noctis alive. But when Noctis returns, a barrier is suddenly between them and Ignis feels a whole new pain in learning he may not be a friend or guardian Noctis wants anymore.

Reality Can Wait by kickcows 

Explicit Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

Ignis enters into a complicated relationship with the crowned Prince of Lucis, Noctis Lucis Caelum.

and after all i've promised you so faithfully by dustkeeper

Teen Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

Ignis may be more interested in the lead singer of Regalia, Noctis Caelum, than he should be. Namely because as their band manager it was unprofessional. But when Noctis breaks his leg during rehearsal a week before one of their biggest shows yet, Ignis's duties and their relationship become even blurrier.

Galaxies by ScarlettArbuckle

General Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

Ignis was eight years old when he received his soul mark. Soul marks. Well... not every person had a soul mark; some had soul songs, soul scents, soul eyes - some bond or tie to another person. Some had none, some had many, but most had at least one, marking where the astrals linked your souls to one another. Ignis considered the revelation, blinking as he looked down at his hand, which was discolored as if he'd broken a pen and the ink had fully soaked in, dull blue-gray into the skin. He thought of Noctis' bruised hands and felt his heart sink. What sort of bond looked like stains and bruises?

Taking Chances by Nikolita

General Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

They both cared about each other, but one was too afraid to do something about it and the other didn't know how to express his feelings. After many years of misunderstandings and dancing around each other, Noctis and Ignis both decide to finally take a chance on the other.

domi adsum by autumnstwilight (sewohayami)

General Rating

No Archive Warnings Apply

Noctis moves back into his old bedroom. (30's Ignoct, domestic fluff)

[ao3feed-ignoct]

and after all i've promised you so faithfully

read it on AO3 Here

by dustkeeper

What was most invigorating to Ignis, however, were the quieter moments when Noctis would stand in one place. When he'd pause his guitar playing to grab the microphone with one hand, the fingers of his other hand sliding down the stand. He'd meet Ignis's eyes under dark lashes.

 Ignis may be more interested in the lead singer of Regalia, Noctis Caelum, than he should be. Namely because as their band manager it was unprofessional. But when Noctis breaks his leg during rehearsal a week before one of their biggest shows yet, Ignis's duties and their relationship become even blurrier.

Words: 9780, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English

Fandoms: Final Fantasy XV

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Categories: M/M

Characters: Ignis Scientia, Noctis Lucis Caelum, Prompto Argentum, Gladiolus Amicitia, Lunafreya Nox Fleuret, Dino Ghiranze

Relationships: Noctis Lucis Caelum/Ignis Scientia

Additional Tags: Alternate Universe - Rock Band, Fluff, Light Angst, Romance, Broken Bones, Panic Attacks

read it on AO3 Here

[beck-a-leck]

Fresh Crops! November 28 - December 4, 2022

This week's newest fics and chapter updates for Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons on AO3!

The Boys - by juggalombre; WIP, 8/?, 12k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Categories: M/M, Multi Fandoms: Harvest Moon DS/ DS Cute Characters: Original Male Character(s), Carter the Archeologist, Flora, Marlin | Mash Additional Tags: Canon Compliant, Post-Canon, Slice of Life, Slow Burn, Pining Summary: Jazz's life gets turned around with the help of some friends.

the harvest we reap - by Hemlock_Dumpling; Complete, 1/1, 1k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: Major Character Death; Category: F/F Fandom: The Tale of Two Towns Relationship: Georgia/Laney; Characters: Georgia, Laney Additional Tags: Dark & Cozy, #ficwip, Dark, Mutual Pining, Mutually Unrequited, Domestic, Bad Cooking, Competition, Mistakes, folk horror, Secret Crush, Feelings, Matter of Life and Death, Sacrifice, Character Death, Grief/Mourning, Revenge, Poison, Implied/Referenced Suicide, Fear, Fear of Death, Don’t repost to another site, Death Rituals, Loss, Hurt, Angst and Tragedy, Friendship/Love, Unhappy Ending, Sad Summary: The Bluebell tradition for the annual cooking competition is that the representative is chosen by random lottery. It’s Georgia’s turn.

Harvest Moon Fanimation | He and She - by DreamingHearts; WIP, 12/?

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings; Categories: F/M, M/M Fandoms: Friends of Mineral Town Relationships: Claire the Farmer/Gray, Kai/Popuri, Doctor | Trent/Mary the Librarian | Marie, Harris/Elli, Ann the Innkeeper | Ran/Cliff; Characters: Claire, Gray, Cliff, Kai, Popuri, Ann the Innkeeper | Ran, Mary the Librarian | Marie, Doctor | Trent, Kappa, Harvest Goddess, Rick, Carter the Pastor Additional Tags: Fanimation, Fanfiction, Originally Posted on Youtube, YouTube, Originally Posted on deviantART, Embedded Video, Video, Drama & Romance, Falling In Love, Mild Language, Elmrada, adopted fanfiction, Music, Drama, Heartbreak, Family, Fluff, Suspense, Rejection Summary: The story of how opposites can sometimes be just what you need.

Final Moment - by Liza_Taylor; Complete, 1/1, 1.2k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: Major Character Death; Category: F/M Fandoms: Animal Parade Relationship: Harvest King Ignis/Molly the Farmer; Characters: Harvest King Ignis, Molly the Farmer Additional Tags: Post-Canon, Character Death Summary: Ignis realizes his wife's time is at an end.

Bridge Talks - by blushroomx; Complete, 1/1, <1k

Rating: Not Rated; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: F/F Fandom: A Wonderful Life Relationship: Muffy/Pony | Aya | Jill; Characters: Pony | Aya | Jill, Muffy Additional Tags: Fluff and Angst Summary: Pony and Muffy share an intimate moment in their usual spot. Could it lead to something more?

Enthralled - by krissydvalentine; Complete, 14/14, 16k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: F/M Fandoms: Story of Seasons (2014) Relationship: Farmer/Klaus; Characters: Female Farmer, Klaus, Raeger Additional Tags: Romance, Fantasy, Vampires, Alternate Universe Summary: "I race around the last bend before skidding to a stop at the entrance. I gasp. Everything is dust, ash. Nothing is left. No buildings. No trees. No roads. No one. My favorite restaurant, gone. My old school, gone. My home, gone. My family, gone. Gone. Gone. Gone. I stroll down streets looking for anything that survived. Nothing. No buildings. No furniture. No people. Nothing. I’m not sure how long I wander for until the truth slams into me. I’m the last one left." Klaus wants answers....answers to what happened to his settlement and why, is he truly the only survivor, and what happened to that one girl...

Cooking Lessons - by blushroomx; Complete, 1/1, 1.6k

Rating: Not Rated; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: F/F Fandom: A Wonderful Life Relationship: Flora | Vesta; Characters: Vesta, Flora Summary: Vesta always gets nervous when the archeologist's assistant comes around.

[merryfortune]

Faster than a Firework

Written for @respectfulshipweek2023

Day 3: Fast Food | A Home Cooked Meal

Title: Faster than a Firework

Ship: Respectfulshipping | Ryoken/Spectre

Fandom: Yu-Gi-Oh! Vrains

Rating: T

Word Count: 2,202

Tags: Fluff, Kissing

   The person handing out flyers, was handing them out in all directions from the centre of the crowd. Her eyes were going every which way as she tried to promote the event that she was assigned to and then her hands in the opposite way in a flurry so she could hand out the promotional material. Therefore, it was pure coincidence that Spectre, who was never noticed by anyone, not even obnoxious people with flyers, was handed one.

   He walked off, looking it over and thought to himself, Actually, this didn’t sound so bad.

   The flyer was for a shrine visiting event next week. There would be all manner of carnival games and food stalls, with a fireworks exhibit as the grand finale before a midnight close. It honestly sounded quite… mundane, mundane but fun, and Spectre figured that it would make a nice date night for himself and Ryoken.

   But when Spectre brought the flyer home and when he showed it to the others, it quickly grew from something private between himself and Ryoken. They agreed that they needed to do something a bit mundane and a bit fun for once. It did sound like a rather pleasant way to spend the upcoming summer solstice and so, the flyer was pinned to the fridge as a reminder of their big night out.

   Though, with something so unusually delightful on their calendar, it was hard to forget. As grouchy or grumpy as any of them could be given the duress of their illicit, and even some of their legal, activities, it really was a bright spot in the monotony of looking after the Neo Link VRAINS from the shadows. Especially given that previously, they had been one of their biggest threats and the other threats, in the form of the Ignis, had been eliminated through none other than the power of friendship.

   Thus, night of, Kyoko not only dolled herself up, but the others, too. That meant appropriately thematic yutaka for everyone. She chose something pink for herself, something brown for Aso, something green for Genome and then for Ryoken and Spectre, yutaka which had a much more youthful, fashionable facade than what she had chosen for her fellow Lieutenants. It was a bit much, all in all, but not unappreciated. They never wore anything traditional and it really did help with the overall mood of the night.

   They arrived at around eight o’clock for the start of the festival and split off from there. Thank goodness, Spectre thought, as he had been hoping to just have some one-on-one time with Ryoken, and outside of their work-related duties. It was just a shame that even though Kyoko, Aso, and Genome had dispersed, there was still another figure to take account of: Ryoken’s insatiable hunger for street food.

   Honestly, Spectre should have known that he would never get a second glance, not when they were in a verifiable wonderland of all sorts of fried goodies and other, assorted treats. Even he had to admit, the chocolate bananas at that one stall did look really good.

   “Are you sure you're full, Spectre?” Ryoken asked. “I know you always eat like a bird but still. Enjoy yourself for once.”

   Spectre laughed demurely, he lifted his popsicle embedded banana to Ryoken as a reply. All whilst his eyes caught on how Ryoken was struggling to hold his taiyaki and his octopus balls and the snow cone, too, and a hot dog, as well, from nowhere else but Cafe Nagi. 

   “I’m right, thank you for asking.” Spectre said but then, looking up, to the side, his eyes did widen - and Ryoken did notice.

   “Did you see something you wanted?” Ryoken asked.

   “Er, yes, actually. I want to play a game.” Spectre said.

   “Let me buy you some tickets, then.” Ryoken insisted. “If you're not going to eat, at least get some nice prizes for yourself.”

   In Spectre’s liege, Ryoken hobbled over to the carnival stall that Spectre had picked out for himself and then somehow managed to fish out his wallet, as well as some money, so he could pay for Spectre’s tickets. Quite frankly, watching Ryoken juggle all his food and his cash as well, both impressed and embarrassed Spectre.

   No matter, he got the tickets in the end. The ticketer passed them to Ryoken, Ryoken passed them to Spectre, and Spectre passed them to the ticketer again. Let the games begin.

   The game that Spectre had picked first was a game of shooting balloons with air rifles. Colourful balloons hiding cards labelled with numbers of points to score were pinned to a cork board backing, flanked either side by all the wonderful prizes that could be won. Plush toys modelled on popular characters in knock-off proportions, glow sticks and lollies, but what Spectre wanted were the masks, hidden behind these more exciting prizes. 

   They were a little old-fashioned looking and he didn’t have a need for any toys, so he would aim to collect enough points for those. Looking at the price tags, he needed a medium amount of points, around thirty or more. Cheaper than the biggest, most high quality of the various plush toys but dearer than the glowsticks, Spectre was very confident in his technique.

   Especially with his master watching. He couldn’t let down someone who called themselves Revolver down in a game of air rifle firing.

   Bang, bang, bang. Spectre lined himself up with the air rifle, making it a natural extension of himself and with his keen intuition, he just knew which of these balloons of all seven colours of the rainbow would be hiding the cards he could make the most bank on.

   The carnie was most impressed once Spectre had all three shots that had been paid for him. Impressed in a begrudging way, of course, as his hand showered over the prizes that Spectre was now owed.

   “So, what’ll it be?” he asked.

   “This one please.” Spectre said and he pointed out a white fox mask. Its red accents were sun faded and now appeared orange - or at least they did in the orange highlights of the festival’s atmospheric, lantern lightning.

   The carnie nodded and unhitched Spectre’s mask off its hook then handed it onto him. Spectre was appreciative and fixed it to the side of his head promptly. It was real wood but still cheaply made overall but he liked it.

   “Thank you.” Spectre said.

   And that was that. Well, for that game, anyway. 

   With the love of the hunt ignited, Spectre wanted more. He couldn’t help himself, it was that fierce competition that had kept him alive as a child. Not to mention, he finally had Ryoken’s attention, he was politely clapping Spectre on through every rigged game that he busted. So, Spectre was rather stoked to keep going and Ryoken very happily trailed after him as Spectre sampled a few more sideshow stalls. He knocked over glass jugs with baseballs, he attempted to scoop up fish with paper paddles and it all came to rather lovely success with the prizes that he was amassing.

   Aside from his first won mask, Spectre now had a yellowy-coloured goldfish named Kiro in a bag and a fuzzy teddy bear he intended to give to Ryoken later, too. Honestly, he was starting to look like Ryoken with all his food with what he was now lugging around.

   Fortunately, for the money in the kitty especially, the fireworks were starting soon. They regrouped with the Lieutenants who were quite impressed with Spectre’s haul, though they did wonder who was going to set up a fish tank for Kiro to live in - assuming he lived that long at all. But before anyone could get too chatty, there was an announcement through a very crackly microphone.

   The announcement could hardly be heard through the technical difficulties, let alone the murmur of the crowd’s excitement. There was a flush of movement closer to the shrine, where the fireworks were going to be set off in an adjacent acre of land where no one would get hurt.

   Ryoken and Spectre were close, shoulders overlapping, and looked up, straining their eyes into the dark sky. This was as clear as a night as it got in Den City, alas. Smoky, cloudy, only a few glimmering stars but it didn’t matter. Not when fireworks were soon going up, up, up, one by one and exploding into a scatter of stardust.

   The embers of the fireworks lit up the night sky in shades of red, yellow, and orange. All bright colours of the summer, then followed by oceanic blues and soft purples, like the flowering wisteria all over the shrine’s grounds. The crowd was in awe and Spectre stole a glance at Ryoken.

   He, especially, was in awe. Ryoken’s eyes were lit up, his lips slightly apart and Spectre felt his heart leap to his throat. The boom and crash of the fireworks were deafening but he could still hear his own thoughts inside his head: they were in louder than the ordinance that the fireworks were providing. Even more daring than those beautiful explosives.

   He wanted to kiss Ryoken. Sorely, dearly, desperately. 

   Ryoken was utterly enamoured with the sky, he didn’t even notice as Spectre tried to lean in, tried to whisper to him. Instead, he started to chew some taffy that he had bought from goodness knows where and Spectre leaned out. He kept the sigh of disappointment to himself, even if it clearly wasn’t going to be heard and instead watched the fireworks.

   The theatrics were nothing less than gorgeous, well placed and timed like a dance recital. And then it was over. As fleeting as those sparks the fireworks produced, over and over, in busy cascades and then solo blooms and then nothing. An announcement that the main attraction of the festival had come and gone, that amusements and food stalls were likely going to close in an hour or so.

   “Thank you for coming.” the Speaker said, the clearest the microphone had been all night.

   “Let’s go pay our respects at the shrine, yeah?” Ryoken turned to Spectre to suggest.

   “Alright.” Spectre said and since he didn’t sound ecstatic, that confused Ryoken.

   Still, they waded against the crowd - and told the Lieutenants they would be in touch soon, promise. Together, Ryoken and Spectre made their way to the front of the shrine. They passed by underneath the torii, the scarlet dulled in the dim of the night and then made it to the foyer.

   Ryoken popped a couple coins as tribute into the large chest whilst Spectre said a prayer. Ryoken snickered and Spectre cast a suspicious eye on him.

   “What’s so funny?” Spectre asked, frowning.

   “You look like a youkai in your yukata and the mask, too.” Ryoken replied, explaining his little in-joke. “Truly spectral tonight.”

   “Oh, I see.” Spectre didn’t quite know how to reply to that.

   “What did you pray for?” Ryoken asked. 

   “Your health, of course.” Spectre replied.

   “I’ll pray for yours as well then.” Ryoken said and he clapped his hands once in front of the shrine’s bounty. 

   Spectre was a little miffed by the display of it but he couldn’t say he wasn’t flattered. When Ryoken finished praying, it seemed he still had more to ask.

   “Why do you have a bee in your bonnet all of a sudden?” Ryoken asked.

   “...I wanted to kiss you during the fireworks, I thought that would be nice but, well, you were too busy watching them to notice.” Spectre sheepishly admitted, then grumbled, “Not to mention, you’ve been doing nothing but stuff your mouth with food.”

   Ryoken laughed, “Sorry, I thought you would want to wait until we were in private. Here, come with me, let’s go somewhere a bit quieter. Besides, I think it would be disrespectful to kiss in front of the shrine.”

   Ryoken offered his hand to Spectre and Spectre took it, grateful. A scant blush to his cheeks, however, but he allowed himself to be tugged into the pine woods surrounding the shrine. Not its no go zone, where the fireworks had been launched for, as that was the opposite direction but it still felt like a prohibited zone belonging to the shrine. Though, admittedly, that thrilled Spectre at least a little bit.

   Still holding onto Kiro the Fish and the unnamed teddy bear tucked under his arm, Spectre did feel like something of a hypocrite since he had been internally nagging Ryoken for holding onto so much but with his back against a tree, Ryoken’s leg slotted in between his own, he didn’t care much. Ryoken kissed him gently, sweetly - literally, he still tasted of the taffy that he had just been eating, as well as of fairy floss, too - and Spectre kissed him back.

   In the quiet of the forest, with absolutely no one watching, Spectre did feel a touch foolish for thinking he would want a more public display underneath the fireworks rather than foliage. As they kissed, a warm breeze blew but it was pleasant as it was the height of summer, fireflies even floated around idly, too. And so, they sealed the end of the night with this kiss. 

[ignis-scientia-estrogen-brigade]

Ignis Fluff Week Day 1 Theme: Baby!Ignis → “This is my favorite.”

A little birdie told me it was Ignis Fluff Week! Thanks to @ignisfluff for giving us the means to channel next week’s collective grief and lighten the mood with some adorable Ignis prompts!

I still have a pile of names leftover from my Inktober giveaway, so I’ll do my best to tackle as many Ignis Fluff Week prompts as I can and give a few of you some early holiday gifts to look forward to. @expectogladiolus, if you want this sketch just shoot me a PM with your mailing address and I’ll get it out to you ASAP! :D

[heartlessfujoshi]

flufftober day 15 - promnis 'no stakes'

Title: No Stakes Chapter: 3 of 6 Fandom: FFXV Pairing: Promnis (Prompto Argentum x Ignis Scientia) Rating: Teen (Subtle Flirting - Fluff - Ep Ignis V2 - Minor Angst - First Kisses) WordCount: ~2,130 Prompt: Confession

Read: Ch 1 Ch 2

---

Prompto wasn’t necessarily avoiding Ignis, but he also wasn’t going out of his way to be around him. When they had gone back to the motel after being stuck up at Wiz’s place, Prompto had decided that keeping his distance was probably the wisest thing he could do. It wasn’t that he didn’t like spending the night with Ignis - there were times when he would wake up and wish that he was still in Ignis’ arms, but that wasn’t possible with the Prince and Gladio around. No, that couldn’t happen because Ignis had a job to do, and that meant that Prompto needed to stay away. 

It was difficult, the first few days, because he could sense that Ignis wanted to say something to him. Wanted to find a reason to get the two of them alone, but Prompto thwarted every attempt by saying he wanted to stay with Noctis, who had no idea what was going on, but agreed that he wanted Prompto to be with him. 

Two weeks. It took two full weeks before Prompto found himself in a position that he couldn’t get out of. He was walking back from where Noctis was fishing near their haven, and came to a stop when he saw Ignis standing directly in his path, his arms crossed over his chest, and had a look on his face that made Prompto’s stomach lurch. 

“Are you going to run away again?” Ignis asked, keeping his arms planted across his chest, giving Prompto a look with narrowed eyes. “You do know that I can chase after you if I wish to, should you decide that is your best course of action.” 

His shoulders dropped with an exasperated sigh. “Fine, Iggy!” He threw his hands up, then looked around to make sure that they were alone. “What do you want?” 

“I want to know why you’ve been avoiding me.” His arms dropped, making him look more relaxed than intimidating. “You have been avoiding me, haven’t you, Prompto?” 

Blushing, he looked down at his boots and shook his head. “N-No, I haven’t. I’ve been keeping the Prince busy, that’s all.” 

“I think you’re lying.” 

He lifted his head, and saw Ignis was looking at him with an expression that was a little confusing to Prompto. Was it sadness? That couldn’t be right, could it? He never wanted to make Ignis feel sad. Far from it. He wanted to make Ignis smile at all hours of the day, as he had such a nice smile. A smile that could make a bad day turn into a good one. 

“I….” He trailed off, not sure what to say. Because Ignis was right, he was lying, but for good reason. He didn’t know how to tell Ignis he’d been avoiding him because he was scared to be alone with him. He was afraid that those feelings he’d been having since Ignis had practically saved him at the mines were going to be waived off by him, and he really didn’t need that. 

“Prompto.” The way Ignis said his name, it sent a small shiver down his back. Looking back at Ignis, he knew that it was going to come out, whether he wanted it to or not. “Why don’t you tell me the truth?” 

There was a group of rocks nearby that Prompto walked over to, and sat down with a hard thunk. The ground was still wet from a shower that had finished a half hour ago, Prompto not caring as his clothes were already damp because of it. He stared out at the road that was nearby, the sound of passing cars few and far between. Travel was happening less and less, as more Niflheim patrols were making their rounds in the Lucian kingdom. 

“You’re right. I’ve been avoiding you.” He could see Ignis’ form moving closer to him, but kept his distance. Prompto was grateful that Ignis was giving him room to breathe, but there was a small part of him that wished they could bypass all of this bullshit and return to that glimpse of happiness they’d shared at Wiz’s together, albeit he was suffering badly from the thunderstorms that had kept them trapped there. 

He heard Ignis sit down nearby. “Why? Have I done something to make you upset? I thought that everything was going to be okay after what I did.” 

“What??” Prompto quickly turned and looked at Ignis, trying to figure out what he meant by that comment. “What do you mean, after what you did??” 

Ignis’ eyebrow rose up. “I kissed you? Without specific permission from you?” 

“Augh, what.” He shook his head. “No, Iggy. That has nothing to do with this. Okay, maybe it does a little, but that isn’t why. It’s complicated.” He had jumped up, and began pacing back and forth, as he tried to figure out the best way to approach this subject. 

“If that isn’t it, then why have you been avoiding me?” There was a trace of hurt in Ignis’ voice that was making Prompto feel awful. “You seem quite happy to spend all of your time with both Gladiolus, and with the Prince, but when it comes to me, you want nothing to do with me.” 

Prompto walked over to where Ignis was sitting, and dropped down to be on his knees. “That’s just it, Iggy! You’re right - I’ve been spending more time with them, because I’m scared.” 

“Of what?” 

Rain began to fall again, the drops pelting his skin with a soft pitter patter that was more distracting than anything else right now. “I’m scared because I really like you.” Prompto stayed on his knees, looking up at Ignis as he felt the words tumbling out of his mouth. “You are nice. You are kind. You make me feel a part of this team, even though both you and Gladio have been with the Prince for fifteen plus years.” 

“You are a part of the team, Prompto. His Highness has-” 

“No, Iggy.” Prompto reached up and put his hand against Ignis’ lips, not sure what had possessed him to act so forward with him. It got him to stop speaking though, which is what he wanted. Lowering his hand, he stared into Ignis’ eyes, ignoring the rain that was steadily falling faster. “That isn’t it. You know what I mean. And I know that my feelings for you can’t really be something because you have a job to do. And if you knew how I felt about you, and if you reciprocate those feelings, then that means that your job is now compromised.” 

Ignis’ eyes narrowed again as he stared at him. “How dare you think such a thing, Prompto.” Ignis stood up, Prompto quickly stood up with him. “Do you really think so little of me? Do you think that I’m not aware of what my duties are, and what my feelings for you mean?” 

“Feelings?” He was surprised to hear that word leave Ignis’ mouth. “What do you mean?” 

A soft sigh left Ignis’ mouth. “Oh, Prompto. What am I going to do with you?” Two strong hands touched his shoulders, Ignis turning him to look directly at him. “Do you need it spelled out? Here you are, telling me that you like me, and I’m trying to confess to you that I feel the same way, and yet you’re confused.” 

“You like me?” Prompto repeated, still staring at Ignis with a dazed look in his eyes. Is this real? That couldn’t be possible. 

“Need I remind you that I was the one to kiss you?” The hand on his left shoulder was pulled away, and brought to his face. Prompto closed his eyes as the soft touch of Ignis’ hand made his knees weak. “Prompto, Prompto, Prompto.” Ignis’ breath touched his lips, as he brought his head closer to Prompto’s. “We’re going to need to work on your self-esteem. It shouldn’t be surprising that I’ve fallen for you, as you make me feel unlike anyone has ever made me feel in my life.” 

“Iggy, I-” 

Prompto wasn’t able to finish his thought, though, as Ignis’ lips touched his, sending a spark traveling through his entire body. The hand on his face stayed where it was, as Ignis’ lips moved against his, the two of them surrendering to a feeling that both had been denying the last two weeks. Prompto softly moaned against his lips, his hands finding their way to the suspenders that Ignis wore, tugging on them as his head spun. 

He dropped back down to his feet, not realizing he’d been on his toes to kiss Ignis, his heart pounding very fast in his chest. “Iggy.” He whispered his name, unable to look away from him. “W-What does this mean?” 

“This means that you should stop avoiding me.” Ignis reached over, and pushed some of his bangs off of his face. “And, we should get out of this awful weather. This region is awful with this rain.” 

“W-What does this mean for us, though?” Prompto needed to hear what it meant. Sure, he had told Ignis he’d liked him, prostrating himself on his knees while confessing to him, but Ignis had said it so matter-of-factly that it was a tiny bit jarring on his end. “Do you like me?” 

“I have said as much.” The smirk on Ignis’ lips ignited a fire in his stomach that spread all the way up to his cheeks. “If you’re asking what this will mean while we’re with the others, I will leave that up to you.” 

“Won’t they care?” He asked, thinking about how both Gladio and Noctis were sneaking around behind their backs, engaging in a whole mess of a relationship that neither was admitting to. 

Ignis reached for his hand, which he gave freely to him. “Does it matter? We know they’re in their own little tryst.” 

“But that isn’t why this is happening, right?” His paranoia was getting the best of him. “You’re not saying you like me out of desperation, are you, Iggy?” 

“I am not, Prompto.” Ignis stopped walking, and stood in front of him. “You will need to learn to trust me-” 

“I trust you, Ignis. With my life.” Prompto needed him to know this. Because he did. He trusted Ignis more than he trusted anyone else. And that included the crowned Prince of Lucis. 

“You should.” He was pulled into his arms, and was soon the recipient of a long, satisfying hug from Ignis. “I fear how you will act when I confess my love for you. Prompto.” 

Closing his eyes tight, he clung to Ignis as he hugged him back. He couldn’t say anything though, because he knew Ignis was right. If he was having trouble right now with how Ignis felt about him, how would he ever handle something more than this? There was no way that he would be able to. 

He slowly pulled away from Ignis, and rather than ruin the moment by saying something stupid, he reached for his hands, and laced his fingers together with Ignis’. “Will you sleep by me tonight, Iggy?” He asked, hoping it didn’t seem too weird of a question. 

“I’ve been wanting to do that since our stay at Wiz’s.” Ignis murmured the words into his ear, causing his brain to slowly melt as he found it difficult to breathe. “You will be in my arms tonight, Prompto. I do not care if the Prince or Gladiolus sees.” 

“Iggy.” He bit his lip, trying not to cry. 

The smile on Ignis’ face made those tears disappear, and instead brought a sunny warmth to his face, even with the rain still falling onto them. They walked back to the haven together, and saw Gladio was sitting by the fire, while it appeared that Noctis was in the tent, fast asleep. Prompto didn’t care. Ignis hadn’t let go of his hands until they began to approach Gladio, and then would glance at him every now and then, as he had a discussion with Gladio about Noctis. 

That night, they all went to bed at a reasonable hour, Prompto choosing to sleep next to both Noctis and Ignis. He waited, and waited, and after what seemed like an eternity, he felt Ignis’ arms envelop him from behind, pulling his back to be up against Ignis’ chest. A whisper of a kiss touched his cheek before Ignis settled, Prompto finding the most comfortable spot as he closed his eyes, now safely back in Ignis’ arms. A smile curled on his lips as he put his hand over Ignis’, which was resting against his stomach, and fell into the deepest sleep he’d had since that night at Wiz’s, when he’d last been in Ignis’ arms. 

---

Cross-posted to AO3

[meowstinite]

Day 5 of @ignisfluff

Take a break, AND CUDDLE IGNIS

we all wanna cuddle Ignis.

#ignisfluff #ignis fluff #ignisfluffweek

[love-bokumono-fics]

Fresh Crops! September 2 - September 8, 2024

This week's newest fics and chapter updates for Harvest Moon and Story of Seasons on AO3!

Rainy Days - by Perversions; Complete, 1/1, 1.4k

Rating: Explicit; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: M/M Fandoms: Save the Homeland Relationships: Kurt/Toy; Characters: Kurt, Toy Additional Tags: **NOTE: Some tags have been removed to remain Safe For Tumblr. Please see AO3 for complete list** Plot What Plot/Porn Without Plot, Crushes, Kissing, Boys Kissing, Bottom Kurt, Top toy, Hand Jobs, First Time, Unsafe Sex Summary: Kurt is visited by Toy one night. Things get unexpectedly a little heated.

Farmboy Forever - by foxcassius; Complete, 1/1, 13k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: M/M Fandoms: A Wonderful Life Relationships: Male Farmer/Gustafa; Characters: Gustafa, Male Farmer, Original Characters, Muffy | Molly, Nami, Cody | Gordy Additional Tags: Gustafa POV, Canon Compliant, Man I’m really not good at AO3 tags. Give the fic a shot, this one is for all the other mlm hell yeah, Fluff, First Kiss, First Dates, This fic tells the story of the first year of the game thru the pov of gustafa, With a highlight on romance with the farmer Summary: The tale of a world-traveled musician and the farmboy he fell in love with.

Don't Eat Flowers - by Maymist; Complete, 29/29, 68k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: F/F Fandoms: A Wonderful Life, DS Cute Relationship: Nami/Pony | Aya | Jill; Characters: Nami, Pony | Aya | Jill, Rock, Reader Additional Tags: Lesbian Character, Inspired by Harvest Moon/Story of Seasons, Mentions of Other Harvest Moon/Story of Seasons Games, Blue Feather, Romance, LGBTQ Character, POV Lesbian Character, Canon Lesbian Relationship Summary: The new farmer girl in Forgotten Valley attempts to give Nami some flowers to, er… totally give the hint that she's romantically interested in the very much reserved tomboyish red-head. Nami completely jumps to conclusions and misunderstands though, and that's where this silly romance begins. What kind of other madness will ensue?

Burning Gold - by AppleBeryll; WIP, 10/?, 25k

Rating: Mature; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: F/M Fandom: Friends of Mineral Town Relationships: Claire the Farmer/Gray, Gray/Mary the Librarian | Mari, Claire the Farmer/Rick, Karen/Rick, Ann the Innkeeper | Ran/Cliff, Kai/Popuri; Characters: Kai, Claire, Cliff, Ann the Innkeeper | Ran, Doug | Dudley, Rick, Popuri, Saibara, Karen, Mineral Town Residents, Gray Additional Tags: Slow Burn Summary: Claire seeks a new life, will mineral town be what she's hoping for ?

Reject Me - by almakazam; Complete, 1/1, 2.2k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings; Category: F/M Fandoms: Island of Happiness, Sunshine Islands Relationship: Chelsea/Mark; Characters: Chelsea, Mark Additional Tags: One Shot, Love Confessions, Awkward Romance, Rewrite, Chelsea is mad, Chelsea Swears, Chelsea is a tsundere, And Mark is a dense idiot, Swearing, Tsunderes, Love Letters, my god i remember this, yeah i wrote him a letter and tried to get it back when he would NOT reject me Summary: How frustrating it is to fall in love with someone so dense, so immature, so carefree… so lovable.

If a Carpenter Falls in a Forest - by Trans_Nerd; Complete, 1/1, 1.5k

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences; Archive Warning: No Archive Warnings Apply; Category: M/M Fandoms: Animal Parade Relationship: Harvest King Ignis/Luke the Carpenter; Characters: Harvest King Ignis, Luke the Carpenter Additional Tags: Gay Male Character, One Shot, Fluff and a little Plot, Mind Control, those two tags do not contradict each other I promise Summary: That morning, Ignis hadn’t paid much attention to Luke. He tried not to make a habit of staring at eye candy for too long, for he had a whole island of residents to look after. But then, while monitoring the main part of town that evening, Luke's heart cried out for help from Fugue Forest.

[ignisfluff]

Ignis Fluff Week Prompts

Day 1 Theme: Baby!Ignis + Ignis and his father figure + “This is my favorite.” + Scraped knees and boo-boos

Day 2 Theme: Getting into trouble + Stealing the Regalia + Sneaking out + “Oops.” Day 3 Theme: Food, food,  and more food + Favorite meal + Baking vs Cooking + “That is how you make the perfect cup of Ebony.” Day 4 Theme: Canon? What Canon? + Fix the Ending + A Happier World (AU) + “Happy (Holiday), Ignis.” Day 5 Theme: Take a break + Best vacation ever + “Today’s my day off.” + Relaxing Day 6 Theme: Are you laughing yet? + Puns + Jokes gone wild + “That is hardly appropriate.“

Day 7 Theme:  Free Day

(Thank you @raina8 for the lovely gif for Ignis Fluff Week!)