#selene lucis caelum

[tifacaelum]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐌𝐲𝐭𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐞 & 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐲𝐦𝐢𝐨𝐧 & 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐓𝐢𝐟𝐚 & 𝐍𝐨𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐬

Selene, daughter of the Titan Thea & goddess of the Moon. Represented by the symbol of the crescent moon - Tifa

Endymion, mortal king of Elis who ruled & lived at Olympia - Noctis

Both Endymion & Selene fall in love with each other. With Noctis & Tifa it is even more intimate as Noct is the Night & Tifa is the Moon, born to always be together.

If any FF protagonist is associated with deep sleep, it is Noctis, who remains asleep for 10 years. Bahamut would take the place of Zeus, punishing him to that slumber.

Endymion sleeps on Mount Latmus, while Noctis sleeps in Angelgard, the stone prison.

The way this screams Noctifa...

An aspect that I love about the relationship of this myth with Noctifa is that this time Tifa, being a goddess, is the one who has a higher status, turning the tables of the original Prince Noctis & Commoner Tifa.

I simply adore this last paragraph for the way it fits perfectly with who Noctis Lucis Caelum & Tifa Lockhart are & what they represent.

“In the World of your Dreams, you are King” - Regis to Noctis.

Revelation of God, one of Tifaʼs name meanings.

It's amazing and magical the way Noctis & Tifa connect through things like this. They mean everything to me 🌙

[ffxvficrec]

by TifaCaelum In Greek mythology, the Titan Thea had a daughter, Selene. She was Goddess of the Moon. And the Moon inevitably belongs to the Night. And the Night will forever love his Moon. As much as in one life as in another. A Noctifa Alternative Universe 🌙 ◯ ☽ ◑ ● ◐ ❨ ◯ Explicit sex 🔞 Words: 8795, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English Fandoms: Final Fantasy XV , Compilation of Final Fantasy VII Rating: Mature Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Categories: F/M Characters: Noctis Lucis Caelum , Tifa Lockhart Relationships: Tifa Lockhart/Noctis Lucis Caelum Additional Tags: noctifa , noctisxtifa

[studio-star-quality]

≪ Previous

Selene puts her phone away. She feels triumphant knowing her style and sense of fashion is rubbing off on her bodyguard. Or why else would Eve call and ask to borrow her clothes? She gladly acquiesced.

She taps her fingers on the table, impatient. This mysterious “"important business partner” will be late in two minutes and it’s making her anxious. Aranea was unnecessarily adamant about her accepting the dinner invitation but never bothered to tell whom it came from.

Selene sighs almost aloud and focuses on examining whether the dark polish on her nails looks impeccable.

“Oh. It’s you.”

The voice makes her skin crawl in a way that’s borderline creepy and enjoyable. She doesn’t say a word lest her confusion and anger would boil over.

Ravus has an unreadable look on his face as he takes a seat.

He should’ve guessed that cunning manager-woman would come up with something like this. She seemed like a real people-person and is probably laughing like a movie villain somewhere.

Ravus ignores the actress’ icy stare and nonchalantly motions the waiter over. He orders two apéritifs and opens the decorated menu without even glancing at Selene.

“Are you going to fire her?” Ravus asks, feigning disinterest.

Selene relaxes from her stiff pose and carefully folds her arms on the table. She is not often caught so drastically unaware.

“No. But she will hear from this. What did they tell you?” she replies. Every word is carefully selected as she is still figuring out what kind of approach to choose.

Ravus almost chuckles and the light half-smile causes unwanted tingles on Selene’s body. “That this would be beneficial for my career.”

Selene clicks her tongue. “Riiight.”

Whether that is true or not, she doesn’t even want to begin guessing. The thought of leaving before the waiter can inquire what would they like to order leaps to her mind, but she immediately crosses that out. She isn’t one to back out on a battle. Also the pettiness of getting revenge on Aranea by proving her wrong is too deliciously tempting.

Selene would never admit she can feel the ghost of the heat their acted kiss raised in her. The smell of gentle sylleblossoms is taunting.

As soon as the waiter brings their apéritifs, Selene pours it down her throat in a very un-ladylike manner. An almost cruel grin forms on her red lips.

“So. I know a few people. But I’m not sure you can afford their friendship. Or the introduction, for that matter,” she says casually.

Ravus hides his smile to himself. Maybe the evening won’t be a waste after all.

[bleucommelhiver]

just kiss already | Gladio x Lianna

Prompt: #38 “You’re under the mistletoe so stop stalling and just kiss.”

For the lovely @singlebecauseofthechocobros​ – who’s cheered me up more times than I can count with her writing and who’s given my OC more love than I ever have. I LOVE YOU!

Set sometime in the Reunion Universe (a lovely Gladio x OC fic set during the World of Ruin -you guys should check out) where they’ve finally reunited and are all in Tenebrae…also pretend these two knuckleheads haven’t acknowledged their feelings for each other (so, really, just consider this a fanfic of a fanfic!).

Lianna stares vacantly into the mirror as her adoptive sister braids her golden hair into a delicate chignon that sits at the nape of her neck. It only seems like yesterday that she was the one to fix Aeria’s hair for her first ball while her younger siblings, Noctis and Selene, fought in the corner about who got to sneak out first, but now Noctis is lost to the world and Selene is a prisoner in all but name. Since arriving at Tenebrae she’s barely seen her sister for more than a few minutes at a time, and never alone. Ravus is a hard man, but between the short words, Lianna can see that he respects his new wife enough to keep her safe, or she hopes at least, for Selene’s sake.

Aeria snaps Lianna from her thoughts with a quiet, “Do we have to?” as she finishes off the last twist by weaving a single sylleblossom into her bun. A dig at Ravus no doubt, something she knew better than to put past Aeria from doing.

“Have to what?”

“Have to attend this farce of a ball Ravus Nox Sourpuss is hosting? He’s not even hiding the fact that he’s basically the Nif’s lapdog.”

“Hey, at least he’s a hot sourpuss,” Norie quips from her seat at the boudoir.

Aeria scrunches her nose in undisguised disgust. “Whatever. Not into angry bionic men.”

“Ria,” Lianna admonishes gently, “while Selene’s position and safety remains precariously on the whims of Mister Sourpuss, I’ll attend as many of these farces I need to. Besides, as long as he upholds his promise to send supplies to Lestallum, I can look past—”

“You’re too nice Li, and one day it’ll be your downfall.”

“If you stare any harder, you’ll burn that dress right off, Amicitia.”

Gladio turns around in surprise to see Nyx smirking that shit eating grin of his he always does when he’s about to pull one over him during their spar sessions.

“You gonna talk to her or just stare all night?” 

Gladio snorts and lifts the flat glass of champagne he’s been nursing in Aeria’s direction, “You’re one to talk.”

“The difference is Lianna wants to talk to you. Ria’s gotten over being happy I’m alive and back to being pissed that I let her think I was dead.” Nyx shrugs. “If you don’t make a move…”

“Don’t. Even.”

“Contrary to popular opinion, I don’t have a death wish. But, uh, not sure about those Nif lords circling your princess.”

“Right. Hold this for me.” Gladio shoves the now empty glass at the Glaive and makes his way towards Lianna.

Nyx chuckles as he watches the lordlings scatter like flies in the bulking presence of the Shield. His eyes meet Aeria’s from across the room, and for the first time in weeks, she shoots him a small smile, knowing full well that it’s because of him Gladio’s finally making a move. Nyx brings his hand up for a small wave, but she’s already turned her back towards him. 

“Li,” Gladio starts off lamely now that he’s standing alone in front of the woman he loves. “Can we talk? In private?”

Lianna nods, they had to settle their differences eventually and now was just a good of a time as any. Leading the way towards the secluded balcony overlooking the blue fields, she stops only when the din of the ballroom is but a whisper. Lianna turns to face Gladio and finds her cheeks heating up. Despite their recent rift, she still finds herself intoxicated by the headiness of his proximity.

“Look. I shouldn’t have blown up on you and Ignis like that. I know—”

“It’s fine, Gladio.”

“No, it’s not. Hear me out. I just get, I don’t know, angry when I see you guys close like that and I get it, I don’t have any right to, but it’s hard when I—”

“When you what?” Lianna asks, blue eyes sparkling with both fear and hope. The irritation she felt from before melts into anticipation as she watches her usually bold friend glance at her shyly through thick lashes.

“Lianna, I— I care about you. Your friendship means the world to me but…” Gladio pauses, struggling to verbalize the feelings he’s kept under lock and key for so long. He takes another look at the princess, his princess, and brings his hand up to cup her cheek. He leans in a little closer, gathering the last remnants of his courage when—

“Just spit it out already,” Aeria heckles as she walks by the blushing couple that jumps so far apart Lianna’s back hits the marble parapet. “In fact, while you’re at it all pretty under the mistletoe, stop stalling and just kiss.”

Small shoutout to @lucianhuntress (Selene) and @owldearest (Norie) who’s OCs make a brief appearance.

[singlebecauseofthechocobros]

Merry late Christmas tto@lucianhuntress Sorry this is so late but I hope you enjoy it! Thank you so much for being so wonderful! You bring so much positivity to the group and it is incredibly refreshing! You have a 10/10 sense of humor and your writing is A++++! I hope you enjoy this and I love you <3

#24 ravus x selene- “I hope you break your ass on that ice.”

Selene was faring much better on the ice than she anticipated. She was moving her feet slowly, balancing on her skates but still propelling herself forward while her hands were stretched out to her sides for stability. She might have looked comical to some but she had yet to fall on her ass and a small grin of triumph adorned her face.

This moment was shortly lived however when her husband glided past her at an impressive speed. His snowy white hair billowed behind him along with the ends of his scarf which were tightly wrapped around his neck. At his swift passing Selene felt a breeze left in his wake. She was not surprised he was so good on the ice because frankly what wasn’t Ravus good at? He was smart, strong, and ethereal and while it drove Selene to madness it also caused her heart to race. But it was also what he had grown up with.

This being her first winter in Tenebrae she was shocked to find they were as frigid as her husband’s first impressions. The sylleblossom fields were gone, now coated in a fresh coat of snow while rivers and lakes streaming among the land were frozen in place. The sky was grey most days and yet it never dimmed the beauty of the country. The trees were barren with leaves but now coated in icicles that dripped throughout the day when the sun was out but left to refreeze overnight. Selene had to admit, Tenebrae was a real winter wonderland.

“Do you need assistance dear,” Ravus called out to her. She could practically hear the sneer in his voice.  

“I'm doing fine thank you,” she answered matter of fact. Heading to the edge of the frozen pond, Selene collapsed on the snow, heaving heavy breaths as she splayed out on the ground starting up at the sky. Even without looking she could hear the sound of his skates approaching and soon felt the snow around her crunch with the impact of the Commander taking a break as well.

Propping herself up on her elbows she watched Ravus begin to unravel the scarf he was sporting. His hair fell down, unkempt around his face but there was softness in his expression, as though any sort of guard he normally had in place was currently absent and it was just him. His blue eyes glanced out onto the ice with deep concentration, like he was watching something play out. Perhaps a memory.

His shoulders moved up and down with every rapid breath he took in and let out. 

“Sure are breathing heavy,” Selene teased, “Out of shape?”

 Rolling his eyes he replied, “No. Unlike you I was actually moving out there. I’m tired.”

“Hey I was moving,” she rebutted, “Maybe not as fast as you but I was.”

“Hardly,” he chuckled.

“Hardly,” Selene mimicked in a childish tone, receiving a scowl from her husband. “Glare all you want Ravus. Those looks don’t faze me anymore.”

Raising a brow he glanced at her, “Is that so?”

“I don’t believe I stuttered,” she retorted. And then before she could even blink, he was on her; pinning her down in the snow with his hands on her wrists and his face inches from her. Selene went to gasp but stopped herself, that’s what he wanted. He wanted her to react, wanted her to do something. But she wouldn’t give him that satisfaction.

“Can I help you,” she breathed out coolly. But Ravus said nothing, rather he just stared at her, locking his eyes on hers and not breaking away. “I know what you’re doing Ravus,” Selene whispered, “But you can stop this now because it won’t work.”

He didn’t though. If anything his gaze intensified and Selene wondered how it was he could appear to be looking directly into her mind while also appearing to undress her at the same time. She hoped he couldn’t see past her own walls and into her deepest fears and secrets for the way his eyes burrowed into hers she was almost certain he might be gazing directly into her soul.

In turn however, Selene could see Ravus too: fearlessness coated in blankets of self-doubt shone behind his irises as well as admiration and affection. It was not much of course but Selene caught herself eyeing back in wonder.

“You’re a tough one to crack,” he mumbled, his eyes not leaving hers.

 “I like a good challenge,” she replied, “Probably why I agreed to marry you.”

The smirk that formed on Ravus’s face brought a small grin to her own. Freeing one of her wrists, he used his free hand to remove strands of hair from the princess’s face. At his touch Selene’s breath caught in her throat and sent shivers down her spine. Moving his face closer, she closed her eyes waiting but nothing happened. Pulling back, Ravus let go of Selene’s other hand and fell unto the snow beside her, beginning to look up to the sky as well. The two of them laid like this for a while, simply listening to the breaths of the other while letting the chilled air cool their faces.

“Why did you stop,” Selene asked, turning her head to him.  

“You said you like a good challenge,” he replied, “I’m curious to see how long you last till you’re practically dragging me to bed.”

Selene nearly chocked on her words as she sat up glancing at her husband, “E-excuse you?”

“It’s all in good fun,” he answered standing up and getting back on the ice, “Maybe this is for more of my benefit than yours.”

Selene could only imagine how red her face must appear in comparison to the white snow that was all around her but she couldn’t hide that or the stupid grin that appeared on her face at his suggestion. While she wanted to reply with something equally clever the only words she could muster were: “I hope you break your ass on that ice.”

The Crew: @creative-frequency @sherniwrites @bleucommelhiver @owldearest @promptoastandbutter 

[lucianhuntress]

Extremely Random OC Questions

Again, I was bored and felt like I should do a deeper dive into Selene’s mind. I found this from here! 

Would your OC ever accessorize with a cape? - If it happens to be a current fashion trend, then yes.

If they were to encounter a bear, what would they do? - She would probably glare at it. Victory or nothing.

Your OC has the chance to either grab pepper spray, a baseball bat, a knife or a shoe, which one would they grab? - A baseball bat.

It’s a sunny day outside, what is their reaction? - *Goes back to bed*

Have they ever swam with sharks before? - I don’t think so.

Oh no, your oc is hungry and no money, what do they do? - She would call Ignis.

If they had the chance to kill someone without being caught, would they? If so, who would it be? - Almost anyone who annoys her long enough. Including her brother and Ravus. She would end up regretting it though.

What gif describes their life?

What would their username be on tumblr? - theamaz1ngpr1nc3ss

What is their 3rd favourite colour? - White

Would they much rather own a three headed dog or a two headed cat? - A cat. Selene isn’t an active person, so three heads worth of attention is overwhelming.

Can they do the splits? - No way.

If they knew the only way to get the chocolate cake was do murder the guard, guarding it, would they? - Definitely.

Do they know which way east is? - No. She leaves all the “heavy working” to others.

Have they ever been kicked in the knee caps before? - For the other’s sake, I hope not.

If they had the chance to go in a hot air balloon, would they? - Yes she would! Not alone though.

Would they much rather ride horse back or on a camel? - Probably horse?

How many different knots can they tie? - Maybe one or two? She isn’t really interested in things like that.

Would they stop to look at pretty flowers? - Depending on the company. If she was alone, maybe not.

If they saw a zebra, what would their reaction be? - She would try to hide her curiosity. 

If they had to hike up a mountain, what would their attitude be going up? - “Are we there yet?”

Would they ever make a sock puppet? - Yes she would if she could annoy someone with it.

Would they much rather banter back and forth with friends or talk about philosophy? - Banter! Philosophy is boring.

They have acquired a lion, a peanut butter sandwich and a purple rock, what is their next move? - Ride the Lion, throw the rock at Noctis and eat the sandwich.

They see a magical wand, do they touch it? - Yes. ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

If a skeleton talked to them, would they be scared? - No. She would be confused and probably threaten it. Since when have skeletons talked?

If they entered a restaurant and saw a floating beach ball, what would they do? - Go into the opposite direction.

It’s nighttime and the zombies are everywhere, your oc is on the corner of a crowded city block all alone, how do they get off the street? - Torch the zombies with a fire spell. Burrnnnn...

An alligator jumps out of the water and starts to talk to your oc about the economy, what does your oc do? - Kicks the crocodile back into water. It’s Noctis’ job to handle the damned economy anyway.

Your oc is scuba diving and comes across a mermaid, what happens next? - Judges her looks carefully. Tries to follow it so she can become one too.

What is your OC’s go to dance move? - Selene. Does. Not. Dance.

Your OC has access to a boat and 5 million dollars, now what? - She goes on a shopping spree. On a boat.

Your OC accidentally dyed their hair purple, now what? - After an hour of screeching, she actually begins to love her new hair.

What would your OC’s reaction be if there was a giant dog that came to them with a huge bone as the dog wags their tail in excitement? - Yawn and let the dog be.

A frog appears out of nowhere and starts to critize their life choices, what does your OC do? - Murder the damn frog. No one criticizes Selene and lives to tell about it.

[creative-frequency]

Final Fantasy XV Original Character Universe - Masterlist

Loosely in chronological order per pairing. My lovely friends whose OCs are also part of this AU:

@lucianhuntress (Selene Lucis Caelum) @owlwrites (Honoria Curatrix) @singlebecauseofthechocobros (Lianna Lucis Caelum) @sherniwrites (Raihana Alsayf) @bleucommelhiver (Aeria Valdis Lucis Caelum) @toastyfiction (Belladonna Fournier)

Eve Leonis x Luche Lazarus: First Signs

Eve Leonis x Ardyn Lucis Caelum: Decency

Writing Masterlist

[oc-musings]

Baby Love

Okay, this took me forever and a day to get out because I wasn't happy with how it was turning out. Posting this on mobile so if the format comes out fucked, please let me know! Enjoy!

Nathalia found herself sitting outside of Drautos's office, sighing heavily and wringing her hands together. She was nervous, and she tried to will the butterflies in her stomach away. The last thing she needed was for her nerves to make her nausea worse. She had requested a meeting with her Captain, realizing now that what she was about to tell him would officially make things real for her. Before Naghalia could dwell on her thoughts any further, Drautos's voice brought her back to reality and opened his door, beckoning her in and closing the door after her.

"It is unlike you to request a private meeting with me, Nerezza. To what do I owe this rare pleasure?" He questioned, sitting behind his desk and placing a fresh stack of reports on his already tall pile. Nathalia bit her lip and sat down, a ring her hands once more.

"Uhm, well, Gods this isn't easy for me to do," Nathalia muttered, her nerves getting to her again. She must've failed at hiding them because Drautos had his own look of concern. He rarely showed it, but he cared for his glaives and he had a particular soft spot for Nathalia. Drautos knew if Nathalia was nervous, something was wrong.

"Is it to do with anyone in the Glaive? I need to know if I need to start an investigation," he urged, concern heavily lacing his voice.

"Astrals no, Captain. It's just... I need to step away from my role within the Kingsglaive, sir. And if that's not possible then I will submit my formal resignation and use my sick leave in place of my two week's notice," Nathalia rushed out. Ripping off that bandaid left her feeling more relief than she thought it would. She also expected to see the look of shock and confusion on Drautos's face.

"This is quite the surprise, Nathalia. I'm going to ask again, is there something going on within the Kingsglaive you think I should-"

"I'm pregnant and Cor doesn't know yet," Nathalia blurted out, effectively shutting the Captain up, "That's why I need to switch my duties within the Glaive or resign. The stress and risk is too high for me to carry to term."

"I see. Give me some time and I will work something out, a resignation will not be necessary. In the meantime, take your two weeks to relax. You're dismissed," Drautos said, going through his reports.

When Nathalia rose from her seat and approached the door to leave, she turned when Drautos called out to her.

"By the way, congrats on the impending addition. No one deserves it more than the both of you. Take care of yourself," Drautos called out, offering a rare, genuine smile her way. Nathalia returned the smile and nodded in approval and left, making her way towards Cor's office to surprise him.

Moving through the halls, she bit her lip and placed her hand on the barely there bump that would only grow more as the future months would pass. It had been hell to hide her pregnancy from Cor, but she wanted to be sure it wasn't a fluke. He had been gone the last few weeks on a mission outside of the wall and he returned early that morning. It was only fitting that Nathalia finally revealed the pregnancy to him as a welcome back gift.

When she made it to his office, her heart fluttered hearing his laughter along with Regis and Clarus. It wouldn't hurt letting them know about the soon to be addition to their little family. She let herself in after knocking in his office door and smiled at the three men, her heart fluttering once more at the adoring smile that graced Cor's face. Nathalia gave him a quick kiss before greeting Regis and Clarus, giving Cor a wrapped box and a tin of homemade cookies to Regis, knowing he loved her baking.

"Gifts for everyone? How sweet, thank you Nathalia. I hope you have been well, my dear," Regis said, giving her his usual warm smiles.

"I've been better, to be honest. But I'll be okay," she smiled back, watching with bated breath as Cor began opening the box.

Cor gave Nathalia a curious glance before returning it to the open box, moving the tissue paper out of the way. He froze when he saw two black, tiny, folded onsies with white lettering on them. He looked at Nathalia again, seeing her bite her lip made his heart race. He held up one of the onesies and read out loud: "My daddy can kick your daddy's ass."

And then the entire room was met with silence. Regis and Clarus were smiling widely and Nathalia could no longer hide her own growing smile. Underneath the onesie was a copy of her first sonogram, showing not one but two sacs in her uterus. Cor was trembling now and felt tears start to fill up his eyes. He looked at Nathalia and got up, lifting her into his arms and kissed her deeply. It was Regis's and Clarus's turn to envelop the two into congratulatory hugs and remarks.

Cor always thought about their first baby they lost, and all the mistakes he made after, and he knew then that he would never make those same mistakes again. He had and Nathalia were going to be hopeful and happy parents of twins, and he knew then that his life was really about to begin.

[nyodrite]

@a-world-in-grey @illusorygardens @sparklecryptid @hamelin-born @secret-engima because each of you seemed interested in this idea

so.

the entire thing is 30% Nyx's fault and 70% Ramuh's fault. because a non-Lucis Caelum wielding the Ring of Lucii left it's mark and made things.... incorrect in terms of Nyx's death

the Ring kind of laid claim to Nyx's soul and, instead of going to the afterlife he was supposed to be at, was trying to drag him into the Crystal

which Ramuh decided nope, not going to happen and just pushes Nyx's soul into the reincarnation cycle somewhere outside of the Crystal's influence

so eventually Nyx Ulric is reborn in a galaxy far, far away as Jango Fett which, with Ramuh kind of... intertwining with the Manda/Force/whatever, means he'll be able to go where he's supposed when he dies this time

of course when people find out about Nyx being reborn elsewhere many decide that they have to follow him

and more were tossed into things as a kind of... rehabilitation program?

the Fetts

only Arla and Jango are reincarnations

Selene winds up reborn first because detangling Nyx from the Ring took a bit longer

she isn't born Knowing, none of them are, but when Jango is born and Arla holds her brother for the first time she Knows

Jango spends most of his childhood unaware. He finds it a bit odd why Arla seems to be both amused and oddly delighted each time he calls her ori'vod but his sister is weird so he just goes with it

then their parents are killed and, amidst blood and fire and death, he remembers

then Jaster is dragging him away and he fights because he just got his sister back, just remembered what it was like to lose her and have to live without her, he's not letting it happen again

and he warps

(Nyx doesn't have magic, not like a true Lucis Caelum, but the Ring - for all that Ramuh severed it's connection to him - left... echoes.

He can still warp, it's familiar and easy as breathing to him, and he can reach out and share magic with someone but he has no armiger, he can't make potions or elixirs, what shields and elemental magic he can do is limited

but it's enough)

Nyx tosses the blade - a kukri, like he used to have, like their mother owned and taught them to uses as children in Galahd - his sister got him and warps back into the burning house

Arla - Selene, he knows it in his bones, can see it in how she switches from shooting a blaster to using a kukri to dig into the gaps of the armor as easily as she breaths - is fighting two Death Watch, she's holding them off but more are coming they just have to wait

so Nyx doesn't

He darts in, wraps an arm around his sister - has a moment to see horror cross her face - before he is warping them both out the house

the - king - Mand'alor definitely has questions when they appear so suddenly but there are more pressing matters and Nyx has time to figure out an answer

(Nyx never has to answer those questions, the Mand'alor always has a special connect to the Manda and Ramuh makes use of this to explain enough to satisfy Jaster

and if Ramuh hints at Jaster adopting both Fetts, despite Arla being technically old enough to be considered an adult, well that not favoritism that's just logic)

Jango and Arla become bounty hunters, though it's less of a full time thing and more of a I'm done dealing with politics I'm gonna go hunt something thing, and because they've no need for subtly decide to "hide" who they are by going by Nyx and Selene Ulric when on a job

technically both of them are in line to be the next Mand'alor and there pretty much even in terms of who the people want to be the next one

however, neither of them want the responsibility - or the politics, or the paperwork - and so basically try to... talk up the other as the better candidate

Nyx neatly solves this by taking on a bounty that leads to him getting a job on Kamino. and sure, it sounds super shady but there's no way his sister will be able to find him in time to keep herself from being declared Mand'alor

this holds out until the Alphas are made and then Nyx has a moment of oh shit i am a dad of a hundred and counting now

there is much panic and flailing, the comm message is basically incoherent

Selene starts praying for Libertus to show up because she left her brother unsupervised for one job. ONE. and this happens? clearly he needs his proper braincell back

and on that topic, let's head to the other, non-Ulric reincarnations real quick

Libertus is either Obi-Wan or Feemor, it depends entirely on how much I want Obi-Wan to have a proper big brother and Libertus to fuss over Obi-Wan's self-care, self-esteem and just everything really

if Libertus is Obi-Wan then Titus is gonna be Feemor, if Libertus is Feemor then Titus is going to be Dooku

which, you know what. I like that. Libertus is now Feemor, Obi-Wan gets his big brother and Titus is Dooku

so when that mission to Galidraan comes up, Dooku goes and sees Jango for the first time and suddenly Titus comes rushing in. and he's confronted with what is clearly TWO Ulrics before him

he is a Sigh

on the upside the mission ends mostly peaceful, none of the True Mandalorians are killed by Jedi and Death Watch gets dealt with

and there is now a, kind of nebulous, alliance between the Jedi and Mando

Titus!Dooku returns to the Jedi Temple and decides to reconnect with his lineage instead of isolating himself because clearly that kind of stuff didn't work the first time

and then he meets, after much scolding of Qui-Gon, Feemor who he can already tell is Libertus just waiting to wake up

he promptly tells Feemor that he should pay a visit to Mandalore as soon as possible and meet the future - because Nyx definitely saved Jaster on Korda 6 - Mand'alor

and Feemor may have intended to do so, however begrudgingly, but then he found a padawan and didn't really have time for a side trip to Mandalore

(which is good because he definitely would have stopped the clones from happening)

as for the rest.... well Crowe is Asohka, of course. For some reason I really like the idea of Luche as Xanatos du Crion?

Sonitus is Mando, not sure if he's reincarnated as someone already, but he's the kid of an armorer. Tredd I'm thinking Pre Vizsla maybe?

Pelna I'm thinking him being over in Corellia, not sure if he's a Corellian Jedi or if he winds up as a senator. Axis... I have half a mind for him to be Maul — or maybe Feral?

anyway, everyone only remembers when they see Nyx, hence why Titus!Dooku is trying to get Feemor to meet Jango

Sonitus actually remembers before Titus does, he's the son of one of Jaster's armorers and runs into Jango when he's old enough to start helping his buir

after that, Luche is actually the next to remember — because if I recall, Jango is only three years younger then Xanatos and the year Xanatos became a padawan was the same year that a some kind of pandemic spread through the galaxy, starting with Mandalore. so that sounds like a good set up to a potential mission for Jango and Xanatos to meet

next would be Tredd, which happens because Tor Vizsla dies via two protective Ulrics and so the Maat Mando'ade take in most of Death Watch after killing a bunch of the higher ranked ones

and then the few of Death Watch who got away set up Galidraan to try and wipe out the Haat Mando'ade and Titus remembers

Pelna and Libertus actually run into each other and make friends before remembering then, shortly after Feemor leaves Corellia, Nyx arrives and then Pelna remembers

honestly, Libertus is one of the last to remember but with multiple instances of where he just almost runs into Nyx

Luche!Xanatos finds Axis!Maul, drags him to meet Nyx and remember, then promptly returns to the Jedi Temple declaring he has a new padawan

then the clones happen and Ramuh gives Selene a break and reveals that Feemor is Libertus so she goes marching up to the Jedi Order and lowkey kidnaps Feemor - and his padawan who is having the time of their life right now - to drag him to Kamino

and then Feemor meets Jango and seconds later Libertus is yelling at Nyx over dying - then he finds out about the clones and yells some more over that

Crowe is the last one to remember timeline-wise but that's just because she's born later, she basically remembers as soon as she's taken to the Temple because Libertus is on creché duty with Nyx and she sees them

thats all I remember so BACK TO THE CLONES

the clones are raised as both Mando and Galahadian, and they get to choose—

choose if they feel more Galahadian, or if the want to swear to Resol'nare and be a proper Mando'ade instead of a Mando-raised Galahadian

of course there are those who are both, who have their armor painted in clan colors and clan braids not only in their hair but on display - in braided leather strips hanging from their armor

the clones also get to choose on if their names - not just if they want to name themselves or if they want Nyx to do it (and if they'd want a Mando or Galahadian name) but also if they want to be a Fett, Ulric or any combination of the two, or even something else entirely

after Selene finds out, and drags Libertus into things, a plot is hatched to kidnap the clones

Titus gets dragged into things because he's an older and respected jedi, and might be on the council, and basically changes the "order"

so the four of them wind up taking all the clones, now into the thousands with the oldest - Alphas - being preteen age?, and just flying first to Mandalore then straight to the Jedi Temple

they head to Mandalore first so that Selene can officially declare them citizens, Jaster gets to learn he's a grandfather thousands of times over and Nyx gets yelled at again

then they take any clones that didn't decide to stay on Mandalore over to the jedi temple where they waltz up to the jedi council and inform them about the army ordered for them

eventually it winds up with the rest of the clones getting added to the creché, in their own clans though raised along the jedi younglings

things get restructured a bit since most of the clones are not Force-sensitive, though some ARE because that's cool, and there's no way Nyx is going to be kept from visiting his kids

so you got some retired Mandos now in the creche with entire clans of clones that they've adopted, doesn't matter if they're a Fett or Ulric

you also got clones that straight up adopt various jedi so there's that too

anyways, Luche!Xanatos is the one who figures out about the chips which ignites all the protective rage and an investigation over just who ordered the clones though that winds up a bit of a dead end for a while

misc.

I'm not entirely sure if the Clone Wars happen here? if it does occur then it's not gonna be Republic vs Separatists because there's no Dooku to be a puppet leader — instead I think that winds up with the Sith Empire actually being reformed?

(which, has many a reincarnations seething because they already dealt with an evil empire and now there's another)

if that happens then Dathomir gets raided at some point for Sidious and Plageuis to steal Nightbrothers to raise as acolytes to help with their war

which in turn leads to some Nightsisters to side with the Jedi/Mando side because that's their future being stolen — also so Crowe!Asohka can learn about their magic and stuff because that'd be amazing

ANYWAYS

the ffxv world, i think the planet is still called Eos in it?, does in fact exist. it's just a planet floating in wild space

it is also a very, very long time since the happenings of ffxv

not sure if there's still people on planet or not, but it's definitely wilder and less tamed, all overgrown and filled with creatures

not sure which reincarnation finds this... let's say Pelna because I barely even mentioned him

hhhhhhh

Anakin Skywalker... I am not sure — he's brought to the temple young because there's no way anyone is gonna let slavery slide and Ramuh might have noticed his birth and started poking at someone to go investigate

Shmi winds up free and adopted, Shmi Skywalker-Ulric maybe? she works with Selene and both take the Senate by storm whenever they have to visit

Anakin winds up and Ulric by virtue of being Shmi's son

Libertus, purely out of self-defense, promptly adopts Obi-Wan to braincell for the newest Ulric - or, well, Obi-Wan may already be adopted by then and Lib just yeets his baby brother at the little Ulric to braincell

.....i think that's all the thoughts i have right now

[siren-dragon]

1,001 Lucian Nights -- Somnus x F!reader fanfiction (Ch.5)

Oh my gosh, it’s a chapter update! I know it’s been over a year since I posted, but I kinda lost a bit of interest in the FFXV (the alternate ending makes me confused and isn’t my favorite). Anyway, I decided to finish this story thanks to @LuminaReal on AO3 convincing me to continue. So here is chapter 5! Also, if anyone would like me to do art for this just let me know.

WARNING: there is a mature curse in this chapter

Tagging: @maty-yami

AO3 - story link

Chapter 4

Chapter 3

Chapter 2

Chapter 1

The first thing you were able to register was the warmth that caressed your skin as you were slowly pulled from unconsciousness and rejoined the land of the living. Squinting at the brief assault the sunlight brought upon your senses, you sat upright from your simple bed and glanced outside the small window that resided to your right as you mentally reviewed the previous night’s events. You recalled Gilgamesh escorting you back to the Oracle’s chambers where your mistress lay resting upon the chaise; having attempted to wait for your return. Once you and the King’s Shield had awoken Lady Selene and managed to calm her unease, both of you decided to retire for a long-awaited rest. The exhaustion you felt not only from the evening’s harrowing experience but the previous night as well was so great, you barely registered Gilgamesh taking his leave as sleep overcame you mere moments after your head fell upon the plush pillow.

Yet now you sat awake with a far more refreshed mind-set after the small reprieve. The idea that Somnus was more or less robbed of such a simple yet principal pleasure made you marvel at how the black-haired king had managed so far. Truth be told, he has not. You thought ruefully, gently rubbing your wrist which was now bound by a fresh cloth; masking the dark purple hand-print bruise and subsequent sprain you gained from Somnus’… displeasure. While you did extend a bit of sympathy toward the young Lucis Caelum’s ailment, you could not help the brief vexation and fear that rippled within your mind at his actions. Of course, there was no denying the sliver of gratitude you felt, after all; it could have been your neck bearing the bruise instead….

“I should not hold my breathe on that account, if I cannot continue my stories, I may find myself receiving such a mark.” You spoke aloud softly, moving quickly to dress for the day.

As you exited your small bedchamber and entered the Oracle’s personal sitting rooms, you were surprised to find not the Speaker for the Gods herself, but rather the young servant girl Ceres instead. The adolescent girl jumped in surprise at your sudden appearance, bowing respectfully to you, “L-Lady (f/n), you should be resting! Her Ladyship the Oracle said to-“

“It is quite alright Ceres, and there is no need for titles; I am merely a handmaiden, not a noble of the court.” You corrected kindly, glancing around the sitting room in search of the Oracle, “Lady Selene is not here, is she?”

“No, my La- I mean, (f/n). She left to perform blessings and asked that you not be bothered so you may rest; she said you had a rather harrowing night.”

“I see… Ceres, would you mind doing me a small favor? I need you to deliver a note to someone within the bazaar; a Master Sidolfus.”

“The storyteller?” Ceres exclaimed in giddy delight, her enthusiastic reaction making you chuckle. It seemed the master storyteller’s fame continued to grow with each passing day.

“The very same. Please ensure that he receives this letter,” you replied, quickly scrawling out a short message upon a spare piece of parchment.

“You can count on me (f/n)!”

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There were few pastimes that Somnus ever took part in, but falconry was the one he held most dear. It was the sole avocations he and his mother had shared before her death- the late Lady Rhea Lucis Caelum having been a great admirer of animals, birds especially. He remembered once as a child trying to lift the falcon his mother had held so effortlessly upon her slender arm, only to shake and tremble under the fowl’s heavy weight while it crowed angrily at him for being an unsteady perch. Now he barely took notice of the bird’s presence upon his hand, having grown accustom to the falcons residing upon his hand or shoulder.

“I thought you would be here.” A voice spoke, accompanied by the sounds of moving fabric and the clink of metal upon stone.

“May I ask what brings you here, your Ladyship? I doubt it is to observe the crafting of a falcon hood.” Somnus asked, showcasing the small, half-finished leather hood he was currently sewing.

A rather sheepish expression briefly flittered across the blonde’s face. “Forgive me, your Majesty, I did not think myself to be so transparent. But you are correct, my motive for being here is more than mere socialization between friends.”

“I take it this is in regard to your handmaiden, (f/n).” Somnus shot back before turning to face the blonde Oracle.

Clad in full regalia with trident in hand, the blonde priestess looked as if she were a divine being herself; descending upon the mortal realm to invoke her will, though she possessed a polite smile rather than the cold indifference often seen upon the Messengers of the Astrals. Somnus knew many of the nobles believed Selene to be a little naïve and gullible due to the kindness she displayed to any who sought blessings from the Oracle but that could not be further from the truth. Beneath her sweet disposition was an intelligent and fearless leader ready to fulfill her calling despite being a second choice. And Somnus knew more than anyone that the Oracle was an individual not to be trifled with.

“Indeed,” Selene answered, resting the bottom of her trident upon the marble floor. “Your Majesty…. regardless of what you choose to believe, you are my friend and I do care greatly about your safety, as does Gilgamesh. That would be why I was supportive of (f/n)’s assistance regarding your insomnia and night-terrors. However, that young woman is not only my handmaiden, but my dear friend as well. Which is why I am curious as to how she received a bruise upon her wrist in the shape of a man’s hand last night.”

The Lucian sovereign flinched briefly at the sharpening of Selene’s tone as if struck, “It was… a lapse of judgement Selene.”

“A lapse of judgement? You attacked a woman, Somnus. I know that you’ve been having a difficult time of late and I sympathize, but this is an action I cannot condone.”

“Then you should have your hand-maiden watch her tongue when speaking of matters she does not understand- “

“Somnus Lucis Caelum!” Selene snapped, crystal-blue eyes colder than the Ghorovas Rift, “I will not have you debase a woman who has been trying to help you out of nothing but the kindness in her heart, only to suffer physical harm! Now you will control your temper and act like the king you are, or I swear to Shiva you will be the first to face my skills with this trident!”

A tense silence fell between the two that seemed to stretch on for an eternity before Somnus nodded in understanding. “…. Forgive me, Selene. I- I have over-stepped my bounds.”

“I am not the one who needs to hear those words, Somnus.”

Without another word, Selene exited the aviary, leaving the thoroughly disciplined king to his thoughts. Selene’s anger slowly flooded her mind as she proceeded to return to the East Wing while a sliver of guilt began to take its place. Perhaps she was a bit too harsh on Somnus, not to mention immature for having lost her own temper so easily when trying to teach her friend to reign in his own. Regardless, Selene only hoped that (f/n) was willing to continue with her meetings and that Somnus’ mental health did not deteriorate too far…

“Ah, Lady Selene! You look positively radiant this day, your ladyship. I wondered, perhaps, if I could discuss a rather growing concern with you?”

The young Oracle bit her lip and said a silent prayer for strength to the Astrals before turning to face the individual who had addressed her, polite smile on her lips. “Thank you, Lord Aldercapt, you are too kind. How can I assist you this day? Is something wrong?”

=============================================================

You were glad to see that Ceres was successful in her task as Sidolfus arrived not long after you yourself at the small but private eatery not too far from the Citadel. And much like your previous encounter, the elderly man was more than happy to have accepted the invitation for a meeting; likely knowing you were eager for advice. “Greetings Lady (f/n), it is wonderful to see you once more.”

“Likewise, Master Sidolfus, I am glad you were able to come.”

The older storyteller chuckled, “well, your messenger was quite insistent that I accept your invitation. A rather spit-fire of a girl you have there.”

“Oh dear, I do hope Ceres wasn’t too… erm, passionate about my request.” You frowned, the slight embarrassment you felt tinting your face pink with blush.

“Not at all! If anything, that girl gave me some inspiration for another story of mine. And speaking of stories, I assume you asked me here for assistance with your own fables. Tell me Lady (f/n), how have your tales been received by your nobleman patron?”

“Far better than I had hoped, but he is not as enraptured as I would have wished. I managed to finish my current story and spoke of beginning another the previous night, but I am not quite sure how to hold his focus…until I recalled your own tale.”

“Ah, you are speaking of my encounter with Death,” Sidolfus replied knowingly, gently blowing the steam from his cup of tea before taking a tentative sip.

You nodded, “yes, you mentioned you had meet him once before.”

“I did not meet him, I passed him on the streets of Altissia- but only for a moment. I had told a close friend what had happened, and he said… that he too had seen Death too and that Death had given him a horrible look. He was so frightened that he was leaving for Caem that very night.” Sidolfus answered, his eyes bearing an intense focus as he recounted his tale to you, as if he were speaking of an event that had occurred merely hours ago.

“…And?” you questioned, eager to learn more of the storyteller’s fable.

It was then that Sidolfus allowed a small smirk to twist at his lips, knowing full well that his tall-tale had already claimed your attention. “Another time perhaps. You must learn how to keep your audience in suspense Lady (f/n). But you must ensure that he does not know what is to happen next.”

“Truth be told, even I am not aware of what will happen next,” you admitted honestly, not quite sure if you were referring to your story or the continuation of your meetings with the king.

You spent the remainder of the time speaking a bit more with Sidolfus before taking your leave, knowing full well that Lady Selene would likely send out a squadron of glaives to locate you. Quickly you hurried back toward the East Wing to continue with your chores but was surprised when the doors opened to reveal not only Lady Selene, but a nobleman accompanying her as well. “Please, will you not consider my proposal, Lady Oracle. We only wish to secure the continuation of this kingdom.”

“Lord Aldercapt,” Lady Selene answered with polite grace despite the irritation that reflected within her ice-blue eyes. “I understand your concerns and I am ever grateful for you placing the needs of the people above all else. But from what I have seen, I do not believe his Majesty to be incapable of performing what duties he has been charged with by divine providence.”

“The council is fully aware of His Majesty’s prowess and skill, my Lady- he has done admirably despite the heavy burden placed upon him. But one cannot help the concern felt as to whether or not the king can continue his duty as sovereign with his current health. Should his Majesty’s constitution continue to decline…. we will be forced to act; regardless of divine providence.”

“Those are treasonous words you speak,” you quietly interrupted, unable to mask your outrage at the old man’s cruel murmurs and causing both Selene and the old man to face you.

The old nobleman swiftly turned his gaze to you; his dark blue, nearly black eyes reminded you eerily of a deep abyss glaring coldly at you in cold fury at your sudden appearance. He took in your simplistic attire and stared down at you with a withered sneer as if you were nothing more than a mere insect beneath his boot. “And who are you to interrupt private conversations? I believe servants are taught to hold their tongue, are they not.”

You flushed briefly in shock and anger at the man’s cruel words but was halted from retaliating with an aggressive response when Selene came to your aid. “Lord Aldercapt, I would kindly ask you to please refrain from insulting members of my staff.”

“Your… staff?” The ivory-haired man looked at you with an expression of surprise until it morphed into an oily smile that barely hid the displeasure in the nobleman’s eyes. The falsified expression sent a cold chill of unease down your spine as if the Glacian herself had frozen your very bones. You did your best to keep your expression neutral; though the nobleman’s twisted smile made the task nearly impossible. “Forgive me, your Ladyship; I was not aware this…girl served our dear and beloved Oracle. Tell me, who might you be?”

“Permit me to introduce my handmaiden and dear friend: (f/n).”

“At your service, sir.” You replied stiffly, your bow of greeting barely low enough to be considered polite.

Whether or not Lord Aldercapt took notice of your lack of courtesy, he did not care to comment and instead turned his gaze back to Selene. “Please consider my words, your Ladyship, for the good of all.” He bowed graciously to the Oracle and tossed you another venomous but subtle glare before disappearing back down the empty corridor and out of the East Wing of the Citadel. Once Lord Aldercapt had proceeded out of sight and earshot Selene released a heavy sigh of relief while you continued glaring down the corridor at where the aristocrat once stood.

“That man makes me uncomfortable.” You spoke, at last relaxing once more with the return of privacy.

Selene frowned, “I did not think Lord Aldercapt would speak so directly regarding Somnus' ailments. This is rather unsettling….”

“Would he and the other lords really try to contend with the Will of the Gods regarding his Majesty’s throne?”

“Not all of the council heed Aldercapt's honeyed words, but I would be lying if I said he had no sway over the other nobles. I do not believe they would be foolish enough to contend against Somnus and myself directly… but the hearts of men are often blinded by material vices.” The Oracle sighed before turning a questioning gaze onto you, “but it seems that issue is not the only concern I have.”

“Oh? What might the others be?”

“For starters, would you care to explain why you arrived back with a bruise upon your wrist so severe it caused a sprain.” Selene questioned with narrowed eyes.

You swiftly turned your gaze downward and bit your lip in thought, knowing there was truly no use lying to your friend. “It was merely an accident, my Lady, nothing more.”

“And I suppose the man whose hand it bares the shape of meant no offense.” Selene added sharply, her words causing you to flinch ever so slightly. “(F/n)… perhaps it would be best if you stopped meeting with Somnus.”

“I will not try to fool you Lady Selene and say His Majesty is merely a misunderstood and tragic man. He is cold, rude, stubborn, possesses' a foul temper, and carries a well of secrets greater than any sinner; but he is a good man. One that needs more help than he realizes.”

Selene frowned, “as Oracle and the mistress you have chosen to serve, you have my deepest gratitude for choosing to continue with this task (f/n). But as your friend… I am concerned that you or Somnus may get hurt from this endeavor. However, you asked for my trust in this matter and so I shall continue to give it. I will not interfere….for now.”

You smiled brightly and bowed respectfully toward Selene, “I am at a loss for words my Lady but, thank you.”

The blonde answered your show of gratefulness with a matching smile before continuing down the corridor of the West Wing with you fast on her heels. “Now then, I must speak with Gilgamesh in regards to Lord Aldercapt and the rest of the Council, I sense there may be more than mere nightmares working against the King. I shall leave His Majesty’s health to you; I trust you’ve a tale in mind for your next meeting?”

It was then that a look of amusement flittered across your face, though the determination in your (e/c) eyes burned brightly. “Yes… I believe I do.”

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As day turned to night, and the brilliance of the sun was replaced by the illumination of flame from every candle and brazier, you found yourself being escorted once more by Lord Gilgamesh toward the King’s chambers. Similarly, to the previous evenings, the tall warrior beside you remained silent; but for once you were glad for the quiet as it allowed you to collect your thoughts as you sub-consciously rubbed the bandage about your wrist and hand. “My lady, we have arrived,” Gilgamesh gently placing a hand upon your shoulder; causing you to jump as you returned to the present.

“Y-Yes, thank you Lord Gilgamesh.”

“Lady (f/n), while I admire your courage in continuing with this task; there is no shame in feeling fear.”

That caused you to pause as you turned to face the aged warrior, “… you do not think me foolish for fearing my own sovereign? Or cowardly wondering if this may end with my neck upon the headsman’s block.”

“No, my lady. Fear is an important aspect to possess as well as overcome. In battle, one may discover what their enemy fears most by the means he uses to frighten you. Such knowledge is crucial if one wishes survive against their combatant.”

“You believe I should treat the king as my enemy?” you asked, curious and surprised at his words.

“Is your life not in danger from this endeavor?” Gilgamesh replied, a brief teasing smile tugging at his lips at your disbelief. “You have seen Somnus through all manner of emotions over the course of the past few nights that only a handful of individuals have and that knowledge can aid you. What I am saying Lady (f/n)… is that it may not be you who is the one that is truly afraid.”

You pondered the swordsman’s words as he moved to knock heavily upon the door and opening it when the king’s familiar voice muttered a muffled, “enter.” Nodding your head in thanks to Gilgamesh, you entered the expansive quarters while the door closed behind you like the bars of a prison cell. Across the room the king stood waiting for you as you approached. “Good evening, your Majesty,” you greeted as you bowed politely.

“Yes… good evening Lady (f/n).”

Those words certainly caught you off guard, the kind greeting causing you to immediately look toward the ebony-haired man. For once the harsh lines around Somnus’ face seemed to have softened with the lack of the usual sour expression that seemed to have permanent residence upon his face, making him look far younger. His arms were crossed as his dark-blue eyes seemed to avoid your own as his left foot seemed to shuffle back and forth in the slightest of movements as if he wanted to race away; giving the king the appearance of a young boy who had been caught stealing sweets and forced to confront the shop-keep. After what felt like an eternity he let his eyes shift briefly toward you, glancing at the bandage wrapped about your wrist and hand; causing a micro-expression of regret to flitter across his face so quickly, you would have believed you imaged it were it not for Somnus’ next words.

“I do hope you are well enough to continue your tales, Lady (f/n).”

You stared at him with a look of pure confusion, one that he noticed and caused him to immediately growl in anger and turn sharply away. Did he… Did he just inquire about my health? Is this about my injury?

“Y-Yes sire, I am well; thank you for your inquires.” You responded awkwardly, unused to the strange pleasantries the two of you were exchanging.

“Good. I do hope the… the fool who has caused such an offense has asked your forgiveness. Though none would fault you if you choose to withhold such a privilege due to this man’s actions toward you; as they were nothing short of cruelty.”

If this wasn’t a serious apology from the King of Lucis himself, you may have laughed at the look of nervousness and embarrassment on Somnus’ face. His face had contorted due to his expression of anger, but it was less cold and severe than you had previously witnessed; which caused it to appear pouty and brooding. You tried to fight down the giggles that threatened to spill from your mouth by biting your lip and smiling brightly at the proud king who seemed to have been chastised by another to give this rather humiliating and unusual apology. You briefly wondered if this was what Gilgamesh meant by the king experiencing fear; perhaps beneath it all he was just as frightened as you were. Well, you supposed it was time to overcome your fear and give the poor man a chance… but only a chance.

“I believe he has earned my forgiveness… for the time being. But one can not be too careful, another incident may leave him with a proper scolding.”

His eyes quickly shot up to meet your own, surprised at your acceptance of his apology and playful teasing of his behavior. There was no need for outright proclamations or tearful confessions of ‘I’m sorry’, he was too stubborn for that and you wished not to have a bold statement spoken in false tones if he did say those words. But you both understood what one was trying to convey and knew that such words have returned you both to even playing fields. He smirked as midnight blue eyes sparked with mischief as the golden-orange glow of the braziers danced across his pale face. “Oh? And I suppose you will inflict this scolding yourself? And just what might such an action entail… Lady (f/n).”

You prayed to every Astral there was Somnus did not see the rose shade of blush that suddenly crept up your face at his less-than innocent innuendo. Though judging by the growth of the smirk on his lips, you were not so fortunate. “Perhaps that will be a story for another time, your Majesty.”

“I look forward to it.” He spoke as he settled upon the plush pillows and soft rug within the sitting area, the small table already laden with refreshments and the dim glow of candlelight. “Now… I trust you will continue your unfinished tale.”

“Yes sire, I shall continue.” You answered, settling across from him against the lush furnishings.

============================================================

‘As the crowd was leaving the courtroom, the most famous magician in Galahd, Glauca, passed by on his way to Tenebrae. He was a rather intimidating yet charismatic man with piercing blue eyes and a gravelly voice that could command anyone into performing his bidding. When he came into a room, the Sabertusks jumped on chairs…. But he is not the hero of this story.

‘And who is that?’ Somnus asked.

‘Um… Erebus- no.’ You muttered, trying to think of a name as images of your character flashed through your mind. Young, old, tall, short, male, female, blonde, redhead, and brunette all swirled about within your head until the image began to emerge and become clear.

‘Nyx… Nyx Ulric.’

  “NO!” a brunette man with dark-blue eyes and unshaven face cried out in despair as the chocobo’s raced down the track, with a particularly vibrant orange one claiming victory and with it, his money. Cheers or shouts of outrage that echoed all across the pavilion of the races from what seemed to be every gambler within the vicinity. It was clear to see by the worn and dirty tunic he wore that his social status was not one of wealth, though not uncommon in the sprawling coastal city of Pagla; Tenebrae’s famed trading hub. The young man groaned as he jumped off the pile of crates, he had claimed to watch the outcome of his bet, only for another man- this one a bit more rotund than Nyx, to heave a heavy sigh as well.

“Ugh, that race was fixed Libertus!” Nyx exclaimed in outrage, while a few of those in the crowd they tried to move through agreed whole-heartedly.

Libertus laughed, “that’s no question; anyone could have seen that Nyx. It just goes to show that honesty doesn’t pay.”

“They could have been a bit more subtle about it. Tch, who picks orange anyway?” Nyx sighed before tossing a grin to his friend. “Guess it looks like we’ll have to get back to work, huh?”

“Looks that way, let’s go.”

Swiftly moving through the crowd, Nyx glanced about the sea of faces until he finally found the perfect target. A middle-aged man dressed in fine, silk with expensive accessories draped upon his hands and neck; strutting like a proud peacock amid the poverty of Pagla. Ensuring there were no royal guards patrolling the streets as one really didn’t want to be a guest within the dungeons, Nyx took action. He quickly bumped into the man, who stumbled and glared at him while haughtily turning away, not even noticing as Nyx quickly slipped his purse away from his belt with skill and ease. “Sorry, excuse me…” he muttered half-heartedly before claiming his prize and racing away.

“What? My purse- I’ve been robbed!”

“Hey, are you alright sir? Someone robbed you?” Libertus asked, immediately drawing the noble’s attention away from Nyx.

“Th-That rogue who bumped into me, he stole my money!”

“Umm, I think I saw where he went- this way, quickly!”

Unknown to both parties, a pair of cold blue eyes- like twin pieces of ice, watched the scene before him with intrigue. As the thief quickly raced away with his prize, the man couldn’t help but smirk, believing himself quite fortunate to have found just the person he needed….

When Nyx and Libertus met once more, after having found a safe place away from guards or their mark, they began to split their earnings. Both were far more pleased to find that the man carried a decent amount of money that would tide them over for a time. As the last gil was finally split, a loud shout of angry voices and squabbling of chocobos began to fill the air as people stampeded away from a small battalion of guards escorting what looked to be an elegant carriage; a rare sight in the less-refined region of the city and likely the result of poor directions.

“Who’s in a coach that needs that large of an escort?” Libertus scoffed, unimpressed by the obvious display of wealth.

Nyx shrugged but curiosity got the better of him as he grinned to his friend, “no idea; but let’s find out.”

“And deal with all those guards? Hell no.”

“Come on, we’ll take the rooftops to leave. Besides, you love messing with guards.”

Libertus groaned, knowing there was no use arguing with Nyx once his mind was made up. “Fine, let’s do this before they leave. And if we end up spending a week in the dungeon, I’m blaming you.”

Together the two men hurried closer to the carriage, careful to avoid the eyes of the guards until they were crouching behind an abandoned wagon filled with Cartanica Melons. Keeping an eye on the carriage and waiting till it was closer, Nyx and Libertus heaved the wagon upward, causing the fruit within to sprawl across the dirt street and startle the chocobos while halting the carriage. The guard escort soon realized their charge was now stranded while the two thieves quickly moved to leave the scene. Yet as Nyx was moving to climb onto the rooftop, the small window of the carriage slowly opened and he felt himself freeze as his eyes met the those of the passenger.

Inside the carriage was a young woman, her skin pale and fair while her lips were a pale pink and a bit wide; but it only complimented her heart-shaped face. Though she appeared to be wearing a small headdress; Nyx could see dark blue flowers and shinning pearls twisted into her blonde hair- which only showcased that whoever she was she was certainly wealthy. But what caused Nyx to pause as the rest of the world faded away from his mind was her eyes- a shade of bright blue that caused the color of the sky to appear dull and lifeless by comparison; eyes that were currently locked upon his own showing only curiosity and kindness dancing in their depths.

“Who is that?” He asked softly, lost as if in a trance.

Libertus frowned, looking briefly at the person who had stolen Nyx’s attention, “oh, it’s Princess Lunafreya; she’s Queen Sylva’s daughter. I heard she’s quite kind-hearted, but apparently it’s nothing compared to her beauty- guess the rumors were true there.”

Nyx could barely hear Libertus talking as he continued to hold the princess’ gaze, who offered him a small smile that caused Nyx to only grin. She’s beautiful….

“Nyx… Nyx… Nyx! We’ve got to go!” Libertus called, pulling his love-struck friend up toward the roof as the guards began to give chase.

After being harshly returned to the reality of their situation, Nyx reluctantly turned away from the divine beauty of the young woman and quickly followed Libertus away from the guards as they raced across the rooftops. Within the carriage, Lunafreya watched the scene in awe and with a small laugh as the guards attempted to give chase. “My Lady, are you alright?” her attendant asked.

“Yes, I am fine. I was just… saying hello to a friend.” She smiled, wondering if she’d ever meet the young man again as the carriage continued onward.

Nyx quickly vaulted over a stone railing onto an abandoned rooftop, having split from Libertus to avoid tails before meeting again, only to see he was not alone. Standing across from him with his arms crossed and a smug, knowing look upon his face was a man a fair bit older than himself clad in well-worn traveling clothes. “What the- where the hell did you come from?” He asked guardedly, surprised that the man had seemed to appear from out of nowhere; an action that placed Nyx on high-alert.

“From the other side of the world: Galahd.” The man replied dryly, moving his hand in an half-hearted movement to mockingly convey wonder into his words. “and stay calm Nyx Ulric, do I look like one of the royal guards?”

“I am calm, and how do you know my name.”

“I was a friend of your late father, my name is Glauca.”

Nyx raised a skeptic eyebrow at the proclamation, “I didn’t know he had any…”

“Very few: just me.” Glauca laughed, “your father, he was so crooked he could hide in the shadow of a corked screw.”

The two remained silent, as if sizing each other up before Nyx grinned widely; “you did know him. So, why are you here looking for me and not him?”

“I wish to discuss business with you that requires your unique skillset in the art of thievery.”

“I assume this business you’re offering of the shady variety?”

Glauca nodded, “shady, shifty, and shadowy business. But… very profitable.”

Though he wished it took him longer to ask to show his trepidation with the offer; the word ‘profitable’ had immediately caught Nyx’s attention as he spoke. “What do I have to do then?”

“Meet me tomorrow outside the city gates at dawn. And here, consider it a token of my faith in you, do not keep me waiting.” Glauca then retrieved a small, but heavy purse from within his robe and tossed it to Nyx; who caught it deftly and opened to revel in the plentiful amount of gil within. He then looked up to thank Glauca, only to find the man gone.

============================================================

Despite his unsavory career choice as a thief, Nyx was never one to be obscenely greedy. He grew up with practically nothing, only to gradually lose everything as his parents and sister died one by one; which is why he strived to share his ill-gotten loot with those in similar circumstances. That often caused many to call him the rogue with ‘a heart of gold’ but Nyx preferred to see it as just simple kindness; after all, he could take care of himself and get by fine- not everyone had that luxury.

Making his way toward the humble and decaying building that was his home, he waved hello to Crowe. Unlike Libertus and Nyx, Crowe was not necessary a thief but a fence for their ill-gotten goods and friend who roomed with them. The brown-haired and brown-eyed girl held such a simple appearance that it often caused no one to glance her way, if Libertus’ overprotective nature didn’t stop them first. Indeed, Crowe’s true skill laid in being unseen and the connections she carried; a true gift for a thief. “Looks like the Hero Thief has returned. So, how’d work go today Nyx? Libertus just got back.”

“See for yourself; and make sure to spend it all and give the food to the others, okay.”

Crowe gasped when she saw the amount of money inside, “By Ramuh’s balls Nyx, where the hell did you get this?! There’s got to be at least 1000 gil in here.”

“1200, actually. It’s a down-payment for a job I’m doing tomorrow.”

“1200 gil to start?” Libertus spluttered, biting one of the coins to ensure its authenticity and causing Nyx to roll his eyes. “That’s the first thing I did, you idiots.”

Libertus snorted, “hey, it doesn’t hurt to get a second opinion. So, who is the man that hired you for the job; 1200 gil is a ridiculous amount to pay? Hell, he could have had 3 men killed for that kind of money.”

“His name’s Glauca and he said he knew my dad. As for the job, I don’t know what it is yet but I doubt it’s anything like murder. And if it is, I’ll just back out.”

“And did you believe him about knowing your old man?” Crowe asked.

“No, but I did believe his money.”

“If he’s willing to pay the same amount or even more, I’d do whatever he says- the man is clearly loaded with coin.”

Crowe frowned, “just be careful alright? This job seems shady at best and I don’t think this Glauca man is the most trust-worthy of employers.”

“Trust me, everything will be fine- and profitable.”

Those words only caused Libertus and Crowe to laugh, “famous last words.”

 ‘And so, the following morning, Nyx and Glauca left the City of Pagla behind. He didn’t trust Glauca in the slightest, but when there was money involved… Nyx was prepared to take a few risks.’ You explained to your captive audience while Somnus only smirked as you continued.

 Leaving the still sleeping city of Pagla, the two men traveled upon Glauca’s chocobo south-east and further inland toward the mountains before allowing the bird to rest. As they continued on foot, Glauca finally began to explain the actual task of what the job entailed. “I don’t want to boast, but I’ve not met another who can match me in combat; magic to magic.”

Nyx had to withhold a snort of derision at the magician’s arrogant tone, “so why ask for my help if you’re so powerful.”

“All power has its limits, Nyx Ulric, which is why you are here. What I want is for you to retrieve a certain object that I cannot collect myself for reasons… too complicated to explain. It is due to the rules of magic; they are often tiresome, but must be obeyed without question.”

“So why did you choose me?”

Glauca laughed as he turned to face Nyx, “you did not believe I was a friend of your father?”

“Not for a moment, and stop avoiding the question.” Nyx shot back with a smirk.

“I choose you because you have larceny in your soul. Now, the task I wish you to undertake is this: I want you to go into a tomb, retrieve an old amulet, and bring it back to me.”

“A tomb? What tomb?”

“Right here,” Glauca spoke, waving his hand at the site before them.

Nyx watched in as they came to a halt beside the base of river where a magnificent waterfall cascaded down the mountain side. Crystal, clear water danced across the rocky shoreline while on the other side of the river a herd of wild chocobos were drinking or resting in the shade of the sparse trees that dotted the area. The small batch of wilderness looked far too picturesque to hold something as morbid as a tomb. However, when Glauca waved his hands the shoreline soon began to split as earth and stone rumbled and groaned to reveal a dark enclosure beneath their feet. “How much are you paying me to do this?” Nyx asked, suddenly very weary of whatever was down in that dark abyss.

“2000 gil,” Glauca replied a bit smugly.

“Please, don’t insult me! And don’t ask me to trust you, thieves trust no one… 5000 gil or no deal.” Nyx countered.

Glauca frowned at the rogue’s attempt to haggle, but shrugged and relented nonetheless. “Done, here’s half.”

Nyx stared a gapped at amount of money Glauca easily parted with as he hurried after him. “Wait! You gave me this too easily, no one would ever do something like that- you’re not telling me everything!”

“I gave you the money, now do your job rogue. And here, take this with you.” Glauca added, taking Nyx’s hand and slamming looked to be a small, wooden charm bearing the shape a fox, which was painted in a pale blue that beheld a soft glow in the sunlight. The simplistic design nearly made Nyx believe a child had made crafted the charm were it not for the small horn on the fox’s forehead that appeared to be an actual ruby. “Consider this a small precaution, simply rub the charm if any trouble or complications should arise.”

“Trouble? What sort of trouble, 5000 gil is not enough if there is going to be problems!”

“A deal is a deal, so off you go. And do not try to betray me or I swear by Garuda’s feathers, you will never see your wedding day.” Glauca snapped, gesturing to the chocobo they had ridden here on.

Nyx frowned and looked at the bag of money and fox charm in his hand before tying the charm about his wrist and pocketing the money as he moved to the edge of the cavern entrance. He took a deep breath and soon jumped, landing skillfully upon the start of a stone staircase descending further down into the tomb. Looking back up to see Glauca nodding for him to continue with less than encouraging words of, “go on now,” Nyx slowly began to climb further and further into the cavern.

 ‘Nyx didn’t know the extent of trouble he was getting himself into, if he had he wouldn’t have taken the 5000…’ You spoke before you gave a soft laugh, “On the other hand, he probably would have.’

 The deeper Nyx climbed into the cavern, the colder the air became. It was not long after his descent that he was able to see his breath appear as heavy, white clouds before his face while his flesh soon began to shudder from the frigid cold. As he moved to take another step, his foot soon slipped which caused a foul curse to slip through his lips as he slid down the last three rungs of the ancient stairwell until he fell into a heap upon the cavern floor. “Damn it, what the hell was that- wait… is that ice?” Nyx spoke aloud, staring in bewilderment at the sight that lay before him.

The cavern certainly was large, expanding at least fifteen feet above his head before continuing on into naught but darkness. Before the young thief laid an elaborate and elegant stone antechamber, leading up a small carved staircase surrounded by empty braziers and statues of monstrous beasts’ Nyx had never seen before all frozen in mid strike as if they were to descend upon him at any moment. Against the far wall that lay before him was an expansive corridor that continued further into the cavern; yet the strangest aspect of all was the fact that the entire tomb seemed to be encased in ice. The clear, blue crystal seemed to wrap around every surface like twisted claws trying to consume everything it touched in the cold bite of winter.

“What in the hell is this place?” He muttered, shivering slightly as he slowly approached the entrance as he observed the ice that was currently wrapped about a particularly life-like statue of what bore similar resemblance to a Skarnbulette. “The sooner I find that amulet, the sooner I can leave. Looks like I’ll have to head further inside.”

Rifling through the brazier, which was comprised of nearly fossilized wood, Nyx quickly took a stone and drew one of his daggers and moved the rock across the blade’s edge. When the sparks finally caught and smoke began to emerge, he quickly cultivated the embers until at long last a flame emerged providing much welcomed warmth and light. Taking hold of the torch, Nyx continued onward through the antechamber and down into the open corridor; the unease he felt causing his grip upon his dagger to tighten until his knuckles turned white. More statues stood as silent guardians in their prisons of ice as he walked further before the corridor expanded into a large, circular room with a timeworn sarcophagus resting on a raised dais in the center of the room; surround by four empty braziers. However, Nyx was more than surprised to see that the ice seemed to only begin where the dais ended; leaving the sarcophagus completely untouched.

“5000 was definitely not enough,” he sighed heavily as he quickly moved toward the coffin, moving around a looked to be a frozen coeurl. “There it is, thank Bahamut.”

Atop the lid of the sarcophagus looked to be a damaged and worn carving of a feminine figure, though clasped within the statue’s outstretched hands laid a small ebony amulet with a dull, golden interior and small, dull glass snowflake set within the center hanging from a thin leather strap. Nyx frowned upon the obviously mediocre piece of jewelry and immediately moved to claim his objective for his bout of tomb-robbing.

“This is it? You’d at least think there’d be a real diamond with a tomb this size. Alright, time to get the hell out of here and get the rest of the money-“

CRACK!

Nyx halted in his examination of the simplistic amulet, blood draining from his face as he slowly turned to the source of the sound that still echoed gently throughout the still chamber. The coeurl statue he had walked past previously had remained still as before… but the ice encompassing the figure held a large and vicious crack within the crystalline surface. With torch in hand and his dagger within the other, the skilled rogue expertly approached the disturbed statue as tense as a bow string. Raising the torch higher to observe the statue, Nyx could see firelight illuminating the smaller cracks appearing within the icy surface surrounding the beasts head until they suddenly stopped.

“What is going on? Alright Nyx, you’re just being paranoid- it’s best time to leave.” He chuckled softly to himself, though he refused to loosen his grip upon his weapon.

And then the statue’s eye opened, reveling a slit pupil amid a green iris.

“Fuck!” Nyx shouted, quickly jumping back as the sound of ice cracking filled the entire chamber. A loud roar could be heard from the now animated coeurl statue as the ice binding it in place began to shatter and crumble.

Scrambling to his feet in panic Nyx quickly raced out of the chamber and down the corridor as glacial stalactites dropped from the darkness above. All around him the statues within the chamber began to shudder and quake, more than desiring to chase the thief in their midst. Heavy footsteps soon approached as Nyx quickly glanced back to see the stone coeurl giving chase after its escaping prey. Swiftly Nyx evaded a swipe of rock claws from his adversary, the beast managing to tear part of his tunic but leave him unscathed. He blocked another strike with his dagger and slammed the torch into the beast’s face before racing away- the fire doing little to damage the monster.

“Come on, quickly!” Nyx berated himself as he managed to step back upon the staircase toward the entrance, only to feel the stone sliding beneath his feet as it began to pull back into cavern’s wall. “What- oh come on!”

Doubling his speed and climbing the steps as quickly as he could, Nyx rushed up toward the exit and with it- safety. His fingers hurriedly grabbed onto the last step that remained intact, causing him to haul himself up on the platform as he panted heavily from exertion. He was safe… for the moment.

“Nyx! Do you have it? Do you have the amulet?” Glauca called from above, elation coloring his tone.

The brunette thief sighed heavily before reaching into his pocket and showcasing the amulet from its leather tie held tightly within his fist. Glauca grinned in triumph as he reached down with his hand extended, “hand it up to me; it will make it easier for you to get out.”

“It’s no trouble, I can get out myself.” Nyx snapped, jamming the jewelry back into his pocket.

Glauca smiled, “pass it up to me, there’s a good lad.”

“Ha! I’m not a good lad.” Nyx called back angrily, “Do you truly believe I’m stupid enough fall for that old trick? You running off with your prize without paying me what I’m owed!”

“Give it to me now, or you’ll feel my wrath!” Glauca snarled.

“I’m angry already! After the monsters you sent me to deal with, you think I’d give you anything? If you want this necklace, you’ll get it AFTER you’ve held up your end of the deal.”

“You really think I’d ride off?

Nyx glared at the older man, “yes! You have shifty eyes!”

If Glauca was not angry before, he certainly was now- his face turning a vivid shade of plum as he growled angrily at his hired help. “You cheap, street FILTH!”

“I am not cheap!” Nyx protested irritably.

“I was going to raise you up and reward you; now you shall suffer for your transgressions! You wish for the amulet? Then keep it!” Waving his hands across the stone, the entrance soon began to diminish as the opening started to close, sealing Nyx within the cavern.

It only took a few moments afterward for Glauca to realize the foolishness of his actions as he groaned and slammed a fist against river’s rocky shore, startling his chocobo companion. “Damn it! Glauca, why must you always lose your temper? Why?!” He sighed heavily, his rage having left and leaving the sorcerer deflated. “At least that thief will suffer for his betrayal. Come Garuda, it’s time to go.”

Now sealed within the cavern with no means of escape, Nyx’s alarm at his current situation had increased ten-fold. Below him he could hear the roars of the tomb’s now animated statues, each one desiring to tear his flesh to shreds as they clawed at the bottom of the platform. Yet luck seemed not to favor the thief as a loud boom echoed throughout the chamber, causing the staircase to shake and begin to sink and lower slowly to the demanding beasts below. Nyx attempted to think of some method out of the danger he had thrown himself into when he unconsciously began to rub the small fox charm wrapped around his wrist.

 ‘This was a crisis, a true catastrophe for Nyx Ulric,’ you related calmly, eyes glowing with barely concealed mirth as Somnus seemed to be on the edge of his seat as you continued your story.

‘So, what happened? How could a thief escape such machinations?’ He demanded; his curiosity dancing in the depths of his eyes despite his expression of disinterest.

You gave the Lucian King a knowing smile, ‘it is during such a crisis where all seems lost that powers beyond our own are required. In such despair… there is nothing more effective than magic, your Majesty.’

‘Magic…’ Somnus echoed quietly as his brow furrowed in confusion.

‘Yes, magic.’

 The small charm soon began to admit a bright light that illuminated the cave, blinding Nyx as he moved to shield his eyes before it vanished, allowing him see once more. Sitting before him on the stone platform was a small fox- though it resembled none that Nyx had ever seen in the wilderness or in the streets of Pagla. For one, this beast’s fur was a vibrant pale-blue shade that seemed to literally glow in the darkness of the cavern. Its fur was quite lush and silky in appearance, making the already large ears upon its head far greater in size while a small horn that seemed to be luminescent, crimson ruby protruded like a horn from the beast’s forehead. Nyx stared at the animal that yawned widely as he kneeled down to observe the creature in greater detail, though keeping his blade aloft incase it attacked. “W-Where did you come from?”

“You were the one to summon me, I thought you would already know that,” the fox replied in a high-pitched voice as its tail swished back and forth in a similar fashion to a temperamental cat. “Or perhaps you’re not that bright of a summoner.”

Nyx could only stare with shock at the fox that had replied to his question, mouth opening and closing in a manner rather similar to that of a fish. “I… You- You just talked.”

“Well, I am educated, so of course I talk.” The fox chortled, as if his verbal response was the most natural occurrence in the world. “Don’t tell me you summoned me from my sleep without intending to actually do anything. If so then I’ll be leaving now-“

“W-Wait! Don’t leave, please. I don’t even know who, or what the hell you are.”

“There is no need for your cursing. And as to who I am; I am the summon of that charm you have coiled about your wrist. Carbuncle, at your service; purveyor of my summoner’s desires. Now what do you wish for?” Its head tilted upward as the fox proudly puffed its small, furry chest out.

Before Nyx could even reply with another question as to what a Carbuncle even was, a loud roar and the crack of stone as the pillar they were standing upon began to slowly descend. Beneath them upon the frozen ground, the previously crystalized beast statues were clawing at the stone pillar eager to devour their trapped prey. Nyx released a torrent of curses while Carbuncle squeaked in alarm, it’s tail doubling in size as its fur stood on end.

“Sweet Bahamut, we’re going to die!” the fox squealed in distress as the bestial roars below grew louder at their gradual approach. Quickly, the fox Carbuncle scurried up Nyx’s leg and nestled atop his shoulders as the thief tried to balance his new passenger.

“Get off of me! And what do you mean purveyor, what are you- a genie or something?”

“Please, don’t insult me. I am far more powerful than some meager djinn.” Carbuncle grumbled, still attempting to hide from the monsters within the cavern as he moved from Nyx’s shoulders to his head. “Now, what is it you want. Hurry up human; I cannot do anything until you ask for it now what do you want!”

“What do you think I want?! I want to get the hell out of here!” Nyx exclaimed. And while he doubted the fox’s words about its supposed ‘wish-granting’, he was willing to try anything if he could escape alive and intact.

The fox bit his ear in warning, causing Nyx to yelp in surprise before jumping back onto the stone platform. “I, I, I, I, I! And what of me?! You cannot just summon me here and abandon me, you humans are ridiculous. ‘Get me out of here.’ ‘Take me home.’ ‘Please put me out, I’m on fire!’,” Carbuncle snapped back with its mocking words and turned away in a huff. “Just because you are my summoner doesn’t mean you can be rude and treat me as some slave. Have some curtesy.”

Nyx took one deep breath in an attempt to prevent himself from doing something rash to the fox before replying. “Fine, I’m sorry. Now will you PLEASE get us the hell out of here!”

By now, the platform had already reached the cavern floor and a pair of stone coeurls that had nearly claimed Nyx early snarled and raised their claws to swipe at their now vulnerable prey. Nyx immediately raised his dagger aloft in a vain attempt to block the attack while Carbuncle merely shook its fur out before the ruby on its forehead began to glow and bathe the pair in a bright glow. Within the next second the icy tomb was replaced by the beautiful waterfall that resided outside the tomb- with Nyx and Carbuncle both standing safely above the sealed entrance. The rogue stared about in a daze, adrenaline still racing in his veins while the blue-furred creature beside him yawned and tipped its head to him.

“And there you have it- safe at last and out of that dreadful tomb. Now if you’ll excuse me, I will take my leave. Farewell, Nyx Ulric.” And in another flash of bright light, the fox was gone within its wooden charm. Nyx stared down at the charm in his hand and breathed a sigh of relief before pocketing both it and the stolen amulet back into his tunic.

“Now how am I to get back to Pagla?”

 ==========================================================

“I don’t get it though,” Libertus spoke, looking at the amulet resting on the table between the three friends. “Why would Glauca ask you to get that piece of junk? It’s a little insulting for the best rogue in Tenebrae.”

After Nyx managed to beg for a ride back to the city by a passing shepherd, Libertus and Crowe were pleased to see he was safe until the rogue told his tale. After a lecture from Crowe about the dangers of taking random jobs from shifty strangers and Libertus ranting about pummeling Glauca if he ever saw him again, they all wondered why he would pay so much for something so plain. There were no jewels, embellishments, or anything of value decorating the simple trinket; if fact if Libertus and Crowe didn’t trust Nyx they’d have believed he nicked it from some 2-gil market stand.

Crowe frowned, “well it has to have some value or he wouldn’t go through the trouble. Plus, all that magic in the tomb that was protecting it makes me a little nervous. Spells like that aren’t exactly easy to perform and usually are only in place to guard against something dangerous.”

“He was rather angry when I didn’t give it to him,” Nyx replied, picking up the amulet to observe any details that would give the trio a clue to its purpose. “I think something written here but I can’t read it, hang on a moment….”

Wiping the smidge of dirt away the amulet began to give off a faint glow and an immediate chill filled the air that reminded Nyx horribly of the frozen tomb. Immediately he tossed the amulet away to the corner of their small hovel as fog and ice began appear around the discarded piece of jewelry. Libertus and Crowed quickly scrambled behind Nyx who had drew his dagger in defense as the temperature dropped and frost encompassed parts of their home. Through the growing fog a figure began to take shape, though it was much taller than the Carbuncle that Nyx had summoned in the cavern- in fact it looked to be taking on a far more humanoid shape. And as immediately as it had appeared, the fog and ice vanished to reveal what was perhaps one of the most beautiful women Nyx had ever seen. Her long ebony hair was darker than the night sky and clashed sharply yet beautifully with her pale skin and vivid crimson lips. Clad in black, gold, and ivory fabric woven into a robe-like dress Nyx had once seen from travelers of distant country in the marketplace, she had rather regal appearance. Her feet were bare of any shoes, but an elaborate anklet with bells gave soft chimes that sent an uneasy chill down Nyx’s back. The woman’s eyes remained closed but she turned to face them as if she and sent a piercing gaze toward the three with her sightless eyes.

‘Were you the one to bring me here, summoner.’ The woman spoke, her soft tone oddly gentle but hiding a rather sinister undertone. It reminded Nyx of a winter’s snowfall- lovely yet wrought with danger.

“Nyx… s-say something.” Libertus muttered, shoving his friend forward a little.

The younger rogue spluttered, “what? Why me?”

“You’re the one that stole that stupid amulet, so talk to her!” Crowe hissed, though staring fearfully at the other woman.

Giving a polite bow, as his experiences with Carbuncle taught Nyx to at least be respectful to any magic-wielding entity, he cleared his throat and spoke. “Good evening… ma’am.”

‘Fear not Nyx Ulric, I shall not harm you and your companions while you hold the title as my summoner. You may be at ease.’ The woman replied, settling onto a chair that seemed to conjure itself out of thin air.

Nyx blinked in surprise at the woman’s reassuring words. “I see… um, may I ask who you are?”

The woman raised a curious eyebrow at his question, ‘you summoned me yet know not who I am? They call me the Glacian, the Frostbearer, and Empress of Ice. But you… you may call me Gentiana, summoner. Now, what is it thou desire’s?’

“Desire? Are you going to grant his wishes or something?” Libertus asked, both he and Crowe a bit more relaxed now that the woman would cause them no harm.

‘Yes, I am.’

“Are you like that other summon Nyx mentioned? The Carbuncle?” Crowed added.

At the mention of the fox’s name, Gentiana’s smile dipped ever so slightly. ‘I see thou art acquainted with that… fox. While his powers are strong, they are nothing compared to my own.’ As she spoke, frost seemed to spread from where her foot tapped against the floor of the thieves’ home- as if the mention of the smaller summon irritated her.

“….Are you two related?”

‘No!... perhaps, I am not sure the tests were inconclusive,’ Gentiana sighed heavily.

“You mentioned you wanted to know my desires. What can you do?

It was here that Gentiana opened her eyes and let them fall upon Nyx. They were a dark shade of olive green but looked far colder than even the iced waters of the Ghorovas Rift. A small smile fell upon her lips as she settled her hands delicately in her lap and meet the trio with a knowing gaze and answered with one simple word.

‘Anything.’

===========================================================

“And that, was where it all began,” you spoke, giving a small yet sleepy smile. “Nyx Ulric, a rogue, son of a rogue, from a family of rogues found he could have anything his heart desired. All he had to do… was ask.”

Somnus remained silent as he let your words wash over him before shifting his gaze to you, eyes sparkling with excitement. “So? So! So, what did he ask for?” He asked, eagerly wishing to know more.

You had to resist the urge to chuckle at his oddly childish behavior and it caused a brief feeling of sorrow in your heart knowing you would have to cease your story lest you fell asleep mid-sentence. “We can safe that for tomorrow night, your Majesty.”

Delight quickly vanished as brief flash of anger took its place though disappeared as quickly as it appeared. Somnus immediately rose from his place among the various cushions and paced about the large bed chamber, rubbing a hand down his exhausted face. “But I wish to know now, not tomorrow night! You make your stories sound so wonderous with your wit, and charm, and beauty-“

“What does my beauty have to do with storytelling?” You asked, surprised by the sovereign’s choice of words.

It appeared not even Somnus himself realized he had said that, for he quickly halted his movements and turned to face you. “It is because if I lose interest for even a mere moment I must face those accursed nightmares yet when I turn to see your face, Lady (f/n)… and I find myself at ease from them.” His intense gaze causing a slight dust of blush to appear upon your cheeks. “Please, continue your tale.”

“Lord Somnus… I shall continue it tomorrow night.”

“I order you!” He snapped, frustrated with your refusal.

You frowned, “it would not be the same story if I was ordered to tell it.”

It seemed even the king noticed your growing anger, knowing he had pushed you too far. Somnus stared miserably at you and realized that despite his earlier apology, he had repeated his mistake that earned your ire; and that caused him more pain than the blasted nightmares ever did. “(f/n)… please continue your story. Please.”

You sighed, gently taking hold of his hand much to his shock, and guiding him toward his bed. Silently he complied with your wishes and eased into the soft blankets as sleep soon began to cloud his mind. “I am sorry (f/n), I truly am.”

“I know, sire.” You replied kindly, your earlier anger at his outburst gone.

“No, I meant… for everything.”

You remained silent for a brief moment as Somnus’ body relaxed and his breathing evened out- signifying his escape from the waking world. “I know what you meant, your Majesty.” You whispered softly, pushing back blue-black bangs from his eyes before rising from the edge of the bed. “Just wait till tomorrow night. Sweet dreams, Lord Somnus.” Blowing out the remaining candles you exited the room and found yourself being escorted once again by Gilgamesh toward Lady Selene’s chambers to rest.

[noctislunafreya]

Similarities between Noctluna and Endymion & Selene

Selene was the Goddess of the Moon, and it's personification in Classical Mythology. In many ways, she and her brother Helios took the places of Nyx and Hemera. Helios, Selene, and Eos, were the three siblings who effectively ruled the changing of the hours.

While Selene was driving her milky horses across the sky one evening, her soft gaze fell on Endymion, a beautiful sleeping man. Selene fell in love with him. Endymion’s parentage varies among the different ancient references and stories, but several traditions say that he was originally the king of Elis.

Endymion was also in love with the Moon, as he spent a lot of time admiring it from afar and under her care. 

That night Selene went to Zeus and asked if Endymion could be granted eternal youth and eternal life. She remembered her sister Eos' bad luck with mortal's and eternal life.

Zeus granted Selene's wish, and Endymion slept on for eternity, smiling in his sleep, remaining deathless and ageless. He dreamed that he held the moon in his arms, but it was more than a dream, because Selene really did visit him and bore fifty daughters to Endymion - all beautiful, pale, and sleepy. Endymion and Selene can only be together in their sleep.

In popular media, Endymion is the Prince of Earth who falls in love with Princess Serenity of the Moon Kingdom on the Silver Millennium, from Sailor Moon. 

"A Dream of Latmos" depicting Selene (the Moon) and Endymion, by Sir Joseph Noel Paton, really does resemble the logo of the game.

Final Fantasy XV has seemingly a lot inspired from the Greek Mythology, as pointed out by @anheiressofasoldier and Final Fantasy Peasant. I bolded the things I thought were explicitly used as inspiration for the game. 

In other versions with Diana instead of Selene, the moon goddess is even accompanied by two (hunting) dogs, much like Lunafreya and her loyal dogs Umbra and Pryna.

Diana And Endymion, by Walter Crane

[oc-musings]

Nathalia can get along with just about everyone. But she is exceptionally close to Crowe Altius and Lianna Lucis Caelum (@singlebecauseofthechocobros OC). It comes out much later that Lianna and Nathalia are actually cousins but that's a story for a different time.

You can frequently find Nathalia perusing the halls of the Citadel with either Crowe or Lianna, or all three together, talking and laughing. They have their own code names for particular people they're talking about to avoid the risk of that person stumbling across the group of girls mid-gossip about them. When all three of them are together, they typically go out for lunch or dinner or go shopping. There are also frequent nights that they all alternate whose house/apartment they meet up at.

When it is just Crowe and Nathalia, you can find them out with Nyx and Libs at the local bar they often go to, eventually being joined by more glaives and having a good time. If they decide to be alone, you can find them at Nat's high rise with some wine and food, having deep conversations about their life while doing their nails or seeking advice from the other. Depending on the OC universe, Nathalia will vent out her frustrations and anxieties at starting a relationship with Nyx or maneuvering through her feelings and anxieties over Cor and the both of them agreeing to give their relationship a second chance.

With Nathalia and Lianna, you will find them in the Citadel halls, the gardens, at Nat's place or Lianna's apartment in the Citadel. They frequently talk about their relationships and what's been going on within them. If Nat has been dating Cor, Lianna will ask about the early parts of their relationship the first time they got together. Cor is an absolute legend to both the Crownsguard and the Kingsglaive, so the fact that he and Nat initially dated for three years and then got back together 2 years after a breakup throws everyone for a loop when they start to find out. Lianna and Crowe just have the privilege of knowing the finer details and the inner workings of Cor "The Immortal" Leonis. Lianna and Nat also have a set lunch date every day and every Friday they see a movie and go to the mall. If she's not out on a mission or training that is.

So tell us! Who is your OC’s best friend? How do they spend time together?

[studio-star-quality]

≪ Previous

Preparing for the final scene has begun already when Eve returns. Selene is browsing a catalogue with obvious disgust and fury, the pages nearly tearing apart as she turns them. She keeps glaring daggers at her co-star, who is having a discussion with the director.

“I’m back,” Eve informs her mistress with a delighted exhale. Selene responds with a curt nod, but doesn’t look into her direction. Nor does she bother to question the sudden excitement in Eve’s undertone.

“Hopefully my brother wasn’t too much pain in the ass like he usually is,” Selene grunts. “I don’t know why he has to come here every goddamn day just to show off.”

“It was no big deal,” Eve says, her cheeks gaining a shade of rose and she’s lucky that Selene is more interested in murdering her enemy with the power of her intense stare. “I think he is doing a good job.”

Selene freezes, and Ravus notices her eyes drilling into his perfect marble skin. She quickly decides that the catalogue is quite interesting. Her heart starts racing anxiously and she feels like a piece got stuck in her throat.

“Good job?” she mutters and turns her back towards the icy pair of eyes. “You should probably take something from the catering table while it actually has something edible. We’ll start shooting again in five.”

“Alright. I’ll be in the back.”

She hopes for the time to stop, but five minutes are gone almost in an instant, and Selene has to find her role in the act again. Ravus stands in front of her, closer than before, looking stoic and emotionless as always. He glows of determination, but the rest remains a mystery.

For a moment she can feel how the air around them slows down as the camera begins rolling. There is just the two of them in that room.

It’s just her and the man she has always loved. How happy they are to be reunited once again.

Ravus wraps his arm around her waist and pulls her even closer, like it is an act from an old, cliche movie with no audio. He is so close that she can feel his warmth; not ice as she had thought. His lips draw closer and her mind is trying to focus on the character, but the fire that drives her is weakened and electrified.

Her gaze falls on his lips, perfect and beautiful, and hypnotizing. She feels drawn to him, or maybe it’s just the character she is? Selene is lost as their lips gently graze against each other, before they mold into one, sweet creation of desire. Butterflies flutter in her chest and her body prickles.

His lips taste of tea, and his clothes smell of sylleblossoms that grow almost on the other side of Eos.

“Aaanndd…. cut!”

The magic word is spoken from the distance. It’s like a brutal poke from far, far away, or like a cold shower raining from above. It causes Selene to jump back from Ravus’ hold. Her heart is still ramming against her ribcage.

His eyes are just as empty as always, but Selene notices that funny look he had before during the previous shoot. It passes through his stone cold expression like a shooting star. It may be brief, but it’s enough for the fires to roar again across her body.

The director is discussing with the assistant, but Selene isn’t able to understand their conversation. Her brain is jammed and all she can do is stare at her co-star. Only the words she dreads more than anything in her current state cause her to wake up from the bewitchment.

“Let’s re-shoot!”

Next ≫

[rsasai]

Ignoct Masterpost

Heaven of Cut Stars Series

Defy the Stars Rating: Explicit Status: In-Progress Summary: Ignis is given an Omen of the Stars. 

Now, armed with the knowledge of living through a world of unending night, there are choices to be made. Given the chance to change fate, Ignis will go to war with even the Gods to keep Noctis safe.

Melinoë Rating: Teen Warning: Not actually Ignoct, but world-building Summary: "His name was Regulus, the little king.

Ardyn had loved him, cherished him, worshipped him as any man would. Devotion in its highest form, in the form of the love a father could only have for his firstborn son. Even his Selene, his sweet Selene, was no comparison. She, whose face held the dawn in the dimple of her cheeks, held no sway to the little king."

In which a moral and good man is made into a monster.

A King's Wizard Rating: Teen Summary: Ignis deals with the Crown Prince's plans for a Halloween party, all the while dealing with his impending nuptials to the Countess Marilynn. Emotions bite more than gravel to the skin. If you listen closely enough, deep inside the little box where Ignis hides his feelings away from prying eyes, you can hear him screaming. 

A story of love and dreams, but also of the frailty of hope.

Sacramentum Rating: Teen Summary: "No, Ignis. You must promise this to me as a man to another, a man who is the father of the one you hold so dear." 

Ignis makes a promise to King Regis after the arrival of a foe in the room where the walls smell of death and the marble reminds him of childhoods long gone.

Chapter Fics

The Blood of Kings Rating: Mature Summary: Regis had a short affair with a married Lady Scientia, and while he cares for Ignis it was vital that no one ever suspect that Ignis is a royal bastard. If it came out it would muddy the line of succession and that would be disasterous with the crystal needing to be bound to his heir and the war with Nifheim heating up. 

So instead he ties Ignis to Noctis as an advisor, ensuring Ignis gets some of the deference he's due. Nobody expected Ignis and Noctis to fall in love.

"This was his sin, and this was his punishment."

Roads Rating: Gen Summary: Perhaps it was the magic of the Crystal inside it, but the Regalia… The Regalia was always more than a car. Regalia!POV fic (slight mentions of romance.)

There's a Noctis in My Pocket Rating: Teen Status: In-Progress Summary: Noctis has a very, very nasty run-in with an Imp in the Balouve Mines... and wakes to find either everything has gotten so much bigger... or is it that he's a whole lot smaller? 

FFXV Kink Meme fill for Noctis getting hit with a Mini Spell. Oh, sweet Etro, help him.

To the Moon and Stars Rating: Gen Status: In-Progress Summary: A series of drabbles focusing on the relationship between Ignis and Noctis as small children. Tooth-rotting fluff.

A Wayward Son Rating: Explicit Status: In-Progress Summary: "I would burn down all of Insomnia for you."

Noctis Lucis Caelum, the heir of the Lucis Crime Family, is running away from a past that left Insomnia's Abyss and its people with a noose around their necks. Given a choice between family and morality, he has never known which side to choose. 

Ignis Scientia, the hitman whose name is whispered from only dead men's lips, is running after Noctis. Given a choice between duty and Noctis, he has always known which side to choose. (Yakuza!inspired Ignoct)

Memory Lane Cafe Rating: Mature Status: In-Progress Summary: Ignis Scientia, owner of Memory Lane Cafe, has been content to watch the world pass him by with his one good eye. When a strangely familiar young man wanders into his cafe while looking for his missing cat, Ignis realizes that everything he's wanted, everything he's needed, is just a memory away. 

Reincarnation!Coffee Shop AU

A String of Pearls Rating: Teen  Status: In-Progress Summary: At the age of four, Noctis Lucis Caelum disappeared into the sea for seven days. When he returned, the only word he repeated was one he never forgot: Iggy.

A story of a love that traverses time, destinies, Walls, and oceans.(Siren!Ignis/Noctis)

Oneshots

Seeing is Believing  Rating: Gen Summary: Noctis gives one last gift to Ignis—his eyes.

Royalty Ride Rating: Explicit Summary: (Kink Meme Fill) Noctis somehow finds out that Ignis will occasionally hire prostitutes that look like him. He even has a routine for them: they arrive at the hotel first, hands and knees (because the face is never right) and ready for him, they can moan but not speak (because the voice is never right). So long as they look enough like Noctis from the back it's ok.

He trades places with the next one so he can finally have Ignis fuck him.

The First Rating: Gen Summary: Noctis and Ignis. A throne. A ring. A promise that will last an eternity.

Aquarius Rating: Teen Summary: "Ignis, tell me about the stars."

Ignis tells Noctis the story about Aquarius, the cupbearer of the Gods.

Flagrantiae Rating: Explicit Summary: Sequel to "Urere Sanguis"

Ignis woke with Noctis's mouth wrapped around his cock.

It took a moment for Ignis to realize the warm, wet feeling around his dick wasn't his own hand, caught between his boxer-briefs and searing hot skin. It had happened more than once in the years since Ignis hit puberty; masturbation was part of life, and Ignis had no issues with indulging in it early in the morning when dreams still clung to his senses.

Ever since he was a young man, it had always been one dream. One face, one mouth, one pair of blue eyes gazing up at him through thick black lashes.

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy Rating: Explicit Summary: This wasn't a dream. This was real, and the three men were there and their hands were warm and their tongues were blindingly hot, and this was a comfort that Noctis never once dared to expect from the Crystal.

The Crystal gives Noctis one night with the Ignis of his past, his present, and his future. 

Brotherhood!Ignis/FFXV!Ignis/Timeskip!Ignis/Noctis

Like Home Rating: Gen Summary: This place, the little hill that looked to the West toward a place that haunted Noctis's dreams, was a place of solace and comfort to Ignis... 

And of course he would be there. Especially today. 

Noctis takes care of Ignis when Ignis needs him the most.

Mr. Scientia Rating: Mature Summary: My will is steel. I shall not bend nor snap. Especially not for this bloody minx. Professor Ignis Scientia receives a rather sordid short story from one Prince Noctis Lucis Caelum.

Garden Green Glow Rating: Explicit Summary: "Noct, this is hardly appropriate." "Nothing I do is appropriate, Specs."

During a ball that never seems to end, Noctis and Ignis sneak off to the gardens where positively indecent things occur.

Midnight Moon Rating: Explicit Warning: Noctis is a female in this. Don't bother bitching. Summary: The wedding between the Princess of Lucis and the King of Tenebrae is set in stone, and yet... Noctis deserves one night, a real wedding night, before she bows her neck at Niflheim's feet. And Ignis is more than willing to give that to her.

Taste of Metal Rating: Explicit Summary: Noctis took as much pleasure as Ignis could give in the twisted desire of metal upon flesh, of the sweet dragging of hard blade against the sensitive skin at Noctis's back. The red lines were like paint strokes against a pale, perfect canvas. Noctis could not see himself, could not truly understand how beautiful he was laid out against the black silk bedsheets. 

But Ignis wanted to let him know in other ways, even if Noctis could not see. No, it was Ignis's job to allow Noctis to feel it in every stroke of his blade.

"How does this feel, Noct?" 

Ignis is the master of daggers, and he knows exactly how to use them.

Fraxinea: Of Ash Rating: Mature Warning: Ignis/Aranea as well as Ignoct Summary: Ladies of Accordo are given three offerings in their birthing baths, and Lady Aranea is of no exception. It was too bad she was promised fire and had received only the charred ashes of an ember that had burned too hot for another before being snuffed out in the darkness.

Like Lambs Rating; Explicit Warning: Horror; evil!Noctis Summary: With the dawn rising, Ignis offers something to the crystal... An exchange. (and things are perfect until they aren't, and the blood red moon begins to sing its sweet promises.)

Urere Sanguis Rating: Explicit Summary: Ignis sees the most beautiful woman he has ever seen, a woman who steals his breath away--which is surprising because he has faithfully been in love with his charge since he was a child. He decides to take the jump and approach her, because her silky black hair and red dress that glitters under the lights. She looks so much like his prince....

"You are utterly ravishing, my dear."

Halo of Lace Rating: Explicit Summary: They were such a tiny thing, really--the soft black lace, the nip of fabric, the sweet curve of where it was meant to caress skin like a lover. Petite and delicate, feminine in a way that made Ignis bite the inside of his cheek when he reached down and picked the pair of women's knickers off Noctis's floor. 

He could tell they were lightly used, and it hurt more than he wanted to dare admit. They had never made a promise to one another, and the crown prince was eighteen and still learning about his own body and the touch of another.

(As of 10/31/2017)

[singlebecauseofthechocobros]

Merry late Christmas to the wonderful @bleucommelhiver I love you so much girl! Your writing is phenomenal and as a person you are amazing! Thank you for being such a great friend and such a character in chat. You crack me up lmao. I hope 2019 treats you well and I apologize if this isn’t what you expected but I hope you enjoy it! Love you girl! [tweaked the prompt a bit for sentence flow but its there i promise lol]

Chrisu: #20 noct x ria- “So, I didn’t actually get you anything.”

“I honestly have no idea why he asked to speak to me,” Aeria confessed, while patrolling the halls with Selene on her right, “He’s your twin. Don’t you have some sort of telepathic communication between the two of you? Maybe you know what Noctis wants.”

Selene glided across the marble floor, her eyebrows furrowed in deep concentration, “Noctis’s thoughts are as foreign to me as my own husbands,” she admitted, “When are you supposed to meet with him?”

Aeria fiddled with the buttons on her glaive jacket, shrugging her shoulders,  “All the text said was, ‘Meet me in the gardens tonight at 7’ and even saying it out loud makes it sound even more forbidding than when I read the text hours ago.”

“Well I’m sure it’s nothing,” Selene waived it off; “Have you tried texting him back and asking what he wants?”

“Of course. That’s the first thing I did and he hasn’t replied.”

“Well then,” Selene sighed, turning to her friend, “Guess you’re just in for a surprise then.”

**

Not knowing what to expect from Noctis, Aeria dressed casually for the occasion; jeans, boots, a grey long sleeved turtleneck and of course her black leather jacket. Her hair was pinned back up into a sleek ponytail and she walked through the green house, following the trail to the main space. When she rounded the corner of the path she was surprised to see Noctis sitting at a table, right on time with twinkling lights dangling from the ceiling.

“Hey Noct,” she spoke casually, a hit of suspicion in her tone.

The prince looked up and grinned at her, “Hey Ria.” He stood up, helped her as she shrugged her jacket off and then pulled out her seat from the table. The entire time, Aeria’s mind was running a thousand miles a minute. What was he doing?

Taking his own seat across from her, she noticed the two covered dishes placed before both of them. Each of them had a glass next to their plates, filled with some sort of red wine and a basket of bread was in the middle of the tabletop. Obviously he had invited her to some sort of dinner, but why and what for.

“You look confused,” the prince laughed.

“You could say that,” she nodded, giving him a half assed laugh, “I just don’t know what is going on.”

“So Selene didn’t tell you,” he questioned, “I really thought she wouldn’t be able to keep a secret.”

“Of course she knew,” Aeria muttered, leaning back in her seat, “Well guess the only one clueless is me. Care to explain what this is?”

“Yeah,” Noctis coughed clearing his throat, “This would be your Christmas gift.”

Aeria cocked her head to the side and gave the prince a sidelong glace. In all the years she had known him, he had never been one to ever just say what he meant or get straight to the point. Most days it irked her, since most days he did it on purpose. But today she was intrigued and picked up on how his knee bounced up and down under the table and how he kept rubbing the back of his neck, indicating nerves.

“A surprise dinner is my gift,” she questioned, with a smirk.

“Not just any dinner,” the prince said a bit more confidently, “A traditional Galahdian cuisine.”

Leaning forward out of his chair he lifted the lids covering their dishes and Aeria felt a wave of emotion rush through her at the sight of the dinner before her. The plate was pile high in a green stew with meat kabobs placed atop. The smell of the spices and meat took her back to her home, took her back to a time when she sat around a dinner table with her family. A time she thought she long forgot about.

“I know it doesn’t look super appetizing,” Noctis began, “But I got the recipe from, what’s his name? Yamachang? He’s from Galahd too so it should be authentic.”

Noctis kept talking while Aeria just beheld the plate and let his voice fade out from her mind. Slowly grabbing for her fork and robotically prying off a piece of meat from the skewer, she brought it to her mouth. The flavor sent her taste buds soaring and her heart shattering into pieces. Dropping the utensil she brought her hand up to cover her mouth.

“Oh my gods are you going to be sick,” Noctis blurted out, “Did I mess up that bad? I’m so sorry Ria I-” His words suddenly halted when he noticed the teardrops falling from the glive’s eyes. “Ria,” he whispered, concern coating his call.

Shaking her head she removed her hand to reveal a sad smile, as she wiped away the tears, “This is delicious Noctis. You didn’t do anything wrong this is perfect.”

“Are you sure,” he asked again, “I can call Ignis and have him bring us some burgers instead or-“

“This is great Noctis,” she interrupted, reaching across the table and putting her hand over his, “Thank you so much.”

He nodded and the two began to eat in silence. However, it was not an uncomfortable type of quiet, rather Ria was glad to have the company while she delighted in her memories and the delicious dish. She couldn’t remember the last time she had tasted something so similar to home. It pained her a bit to realize there was a lot about home she was slowly forgetting but in that moment she felt a little whole again.

She also felt a deep gratitude course through her. She couldn’t believe that Noctis, of all people would do this for her. They didn’t hate each other by any means but it was all so unexpected coming from someone she squabbled with on a daily basis. Someone she badgered and poked fun at while he dished everything right back in return on the daily.

“What is this for Noctis,” she finally spoke up, her glossy eyes meeting his.

“I told you,” he began, “It’s your Christmas gift.”

She raised an eyebrow, knowing he wasn’t telling her everything and he could read it on her face.

“It’s also in part an apology for always arguing, bickering, and teasing you,” he quickly noted, “I just began thinking about how often we fight and I wanted you to know I don’t mean half the things I say.”

“Only half,” she laughed.

“You know what I mean,” he chuckled, “It’s all in good fun. At least I hope it is.”

“I think it is,” Ria confirmed, “But this was too much Noctis you didn’t have to. Heck I didn’t even know you were doing gifts so I didn’t get you anything and now I feel bad.”

“You shouldn’t,” he replied shaking his head, “I wanted to do this for you. Let’s just say in the spirit of the season I wanted to surprise you. Nothing is expected out of this expect the hope that you enjoyed it.”

“More than you probably know,” she whispered.

“Then that is enough,” he smiled softly, “Now if you want, although it isn’t Galahdian, I have a dessert prepared too but it’s still in the kitchen if you want to head that way.”

“That sounds great,” Ria nodded with a grin. Standing up from the table she linked her arm through Noct’s, not getting any push back from him, as they left the garden. Just as they were about to leave the room the mage halted and turned to Noctis, looking him directly in the eyes, “Not to ruin the moment, but if you tell anyone I was crying, I’ll end you.”

“Your secret is safe with me.”

The Crew: @creative-frequency​ @promptoastandbutter @sherniwrites​ @owldearest​ @lucianhuntress​

[lucianhuntress]

Hey giiiiirl. So I was wondering and there's no rush, but could I request Ravus angst? Maybe him and Lianna? He is engaged/married to her sister after all and I just would love to see either closure or all out rage lmao. You don't have to say yes! I just was wondering 💁🏼‍♀️

Ravus x OC: Fragments of Past

Warnings: Angst.Notes: I hope it’s angsty enough. I tried. 

Thegrand ballroom of the Citadel was once again filled with applauds.The band, wearing all white, bowed down politely — not once, buttwice. The air was almost instantly filled with excited murmurs; wasthe King going to speak for his guests?

Itwas an evening of celebration; the youngest princess of the LucisCaelum bloodline was engaged to the prince of the Nox Fleuret family!It was an union the whole Eos gossiped about. Some had expected tosee a different pairing to be wed eventually, but after theannouncement− it all made sense. In some way.

Therewas no way the King would let his first-born to be wed away. Sheplayed an important role as an ambassador, some even said that shewas the beacon of the new dawn.

Liannastood still with an empty plate in her hands. The cakes were supposedto taste heavenly, yet she felt like she had just poured ash into hermouth.

“Ishould be happy for her,” she muttered to herself. As much as itpained for her to be there at the engagement party, she had to bethere for her sister and to represent the Lucis Caelums. She had tosmile as if she was thrilled to see her younger sister to be engaged.

Ifthere was one thing she was good at− it was the fake smile she hadplastered across her face. It became a ghost in the instant she wasleft alone, as she was then. She stared at her father from theshadows of the ballroom. The king was cheerfully chatting withTenebraen representatives and completely unaware of his daughter’sglare.

Therewas no sign of Ravus.

Allnight she had been stealing glances at the silver haired man, feelingthe pain churning inside her shattered heart. The words still ranginside her head whenever she thought about the past.

Wasshe a fool? Did he just toy with her back then?

Herhand clasped the fabrics over her chest. She still remembered hisscent, his touch and his warmth against her body. Was it all just alie?

“YourHighness!”

Liannasnapped from her thoughts and almost dropped the plate in her hand.The smile that had left her lips returned instantly as she turnedaround to see a waiter addressing to her.

“ShallI take your plate, Your Highness?”

Theprincess nodded meekly and noticed how the silver haired princeslipped to the balcony not far from her. She didn’t have to excuseherself as she walked past the waiter.

Thiswas her chance. She needed to know thetruth.

Theair was cool outside and it calmed down Lianna’s glowing cheeks.

Ravuswas leaning against the railing, moonlight reflecting from his whitehair. He was a somewhat sad sight; his pale eyes searched longinglyfor something that wasn’t there.

“Ravus,”Lianna spoke, holding her breath back. She knew she was about to diveinto something that couldn’t be easily escaped from. Her heartraced from grief and anger.

Theprince of Tenebrae didn’t turn around; he sighed into the distance.

“Lianna.”

Theway he said her name−  it still made her skin crawl. His voice waslike a drug she wanted to get rid of, but was always entranced tohear more. She felt breathless, just as she had thought.

Finally,he turned around, looking irritated to be interrupted. Lianna couldonly guess that this wasn’t the first interruption during theevening. It surely wouldn’t be the last one either. She opened andclosed her mouth, unable to form a proper sentence.

Whyis it so hard?

“Whatdo you want?” Ravus spoke coldly, he had to. It was the only way.Even after all this time, a stinging pain poked his chestunexpectedly. He thought it would be easy, but it wasn’t.

“Justtell me,” Lianna managed to say in hushed tone, “tell me why?”

Hisface was like a book written in ancient, unreadable language. Therewas no way to know what went behind that cold mask he conjured up.The pair of blue eyes probed every inch of Lianna’s face, as iftrying to find a weakness.

“Ithought you were more clever than that,” he answered bluntly.

Itmade fury boil inside the princess and she narrowed her eyes. Thecheerful smile she wore as her own mask was long gone. “Did youknow… about this?” she gasped.

Thehurt in her undertone was evident. It cut the scarred wounds inRavus’ heart. He wasn’t going to give in; this was his life now.It was the life his mother and Regis had long ago planned. He had tolet go before it would be too hard.

“It’snot my problem if your father didn’t brief you.”

“Whyare you like this?” Lianna asked. She wanted to scream, to summonher weapon and attack. She needed to know if Ravus had played gameswith her feelings and the thought tore the remnants of her heartapart.

Ravusnever had the chance to answer. Selene ran through the balcony door,only to find her future husband and her sister in the middle of aquarrel.

“Sis,I was looking for you.” Selene huffed and glanced at Ravus quickly,but it was far from friendly. “You better stay away from Lianna,you’ve done enough.”

Ravuscursed the day he was engaged to her. Selene didn’t even know allthe details− but she knew enough to build even more hatred towardshim.

Liannanodded curtly towards Ravus and walked over to her little sister. Shedidn’t look back, she didn’t want to see the pieces of her brokenheart all over the balcony.

Maybeone day, she could look at him without feeling like her heart wasbeing ripped out of her chest. Maybe one day, she would find someonewho truly cared about her and would heal the fragments of her heart.