#shakes iggy I HATE YOU I HATE YOU SUFFER MORE

[zours025]

Zombie au stuff i think its funny that this is a zombie au off of feelings only becuz i havent drawn a single zombie for it yet LOL.

arthur amputation wound under the cut blabla whatever

[secret-engima]

How would it go if certain people (who is up to you) found out that Ardyn and Nox are from a future that went so completely to shit that there are no words to describe it, that Nox is actually Noctis, who's so happy and bubbly that they can't quite imagine what happened to make him like that. A few of Nox's traits and quirks would definitely make more sense though, as would some of Ardyn's.

Hmmmm hmmm ohhhhh this is- hmmmmm. Okay heads up NONE of this is considered canon atm for Nox but if anyone found out it would be Cid, Weskham, and like- Prompto (this may change, depending on how much I feel like making Nox suffer, but for now these are non-canon).

-For Cid- he’d find out that Nox was from the future when he accidentally walked in on Nox sharpening his Ultima Blade. Now- Cid might not be THE most observant person, but he knows his own handiwork like its a part of his soul and THAT SWORD, that sword that looks like its been dragged through the depths of the abyss and back, that sword that Nox cradles like its his child as he polishes and sharpens the blade-

-That is his handiwork. His blade. His tweaks and mods and balances and bits of flare to the point he could already tell you every step he went through to make it.

-He’s never seen that sword before in his life.

-Or ... not this life.

-Nox looks up at him with too-old eyes and a weary, frightened face, “I ... I can explain.”

-Cid stares, stares at the face of Reggie’s eldest and can hear the unspoken I really, really don’t want to and knows that what he is going to hear is going to break him even more than losing Mid and Melba.

-He’s right.

-Nox doesn’t tell him much, tries so HARD to keep the final pieces from clicking, but Cid is no fool and he can hear the gaps.

-The gaps that Nox is NOCTIS. Reggie’s little bright eyed boy. That Nox was the Chosen King and that everything went to the pyre when he was just a newly turned adult. That whatever happened between him and the Accursed (the way Nox uses the title only and no names makes Cid think of Ardyn’s own bitter declaration of past abuse toward his nephew and feel cold) ... broke him.

-Then Nox tells him, honest and quiet, that he died. Nox, this boy, this child Cid has helped raise and helped put back together (yet not a child at all, if what Nox is saying is true, and it is) went and died so that the world would be saved, even though there was so little left TO save at that point and then ... woke up. Younger and different and here.

-And he doesn’t want to believe it, except despite the inherent insanity of the story it MAKES SENSE. All of Nox’s odd “similarities” with Noctis, the secrets and the way Nox stares at Reggie like Reggie is a ghost come back to life.

-The blade that started this entire confrontation.

-Cid has no words to explain what he feels in that moment, looking at the fragile, sharp-edged remains of what could have been (hopefully will never again be) Noctis’s future. He just pulls the boy close and doesn’t let go for a long time.

...

-For Weskham, he puts the pieces together because he is both smart, openminded and ... something of an outside observer. He meets Noctis and Nox at the same time, with fewer preconceptions, and notices the oddities. The similarities that go deeper than “oh just like their father” or “what a coincidence” and instead go screaming off the edge into creepy.

-They like the same foods and hate the same foods, though Nox is better at being mature and eating it anyway. They have many of the same tells in the way they blink, or look away, or rub the backs of their necks. He hears of the marilith attack and through various accidental circumstances happens to see their scars.

-Nox and Noctis have identical scars on their backs, though Noctis’s far more faded and small, and Weskham has this- moment where he thinks of the identical scars and the story of how Nox heard “rumors” and rushed headlong to defend family he supposedly didn’t even know, from an attack that “just happened” to be identical to one he had suffered around Noctis’s age and something inside him goes OH.

-He watches for a long time and tells no one, and while he can’t fathom why he’s indulging the theory it ... makes sense. The tells, the similarities, the face shapes. He imagines Nox with short hair and almost creeps himself out with how identical Noctis and Nox would look if the elder did not have his long hair and earrings and was a few years younger.

-He already knows magic can do many impossible things. Both good and bad. So he keeps the impossible theory to himself, nursing it and compiling more and more little bits of evidence in his head, never intending to SAY anything until he stumbles across Nox during a Quiet Day, watching the world with too-old eyes and blurts, “How did it end?”

-Nox looks at him slowly, like Weskham’s only a dream, “What?”

-Weskham doesn’t like the dead look in Nox’s eyes, not when he mentally compares it to little, cheerful, bright-eyed Noctis and wonders what could have possibly destroyed him and remade him into Nox in just a few short years, “Whatever sent you back. How did it end?”

-Nox stares at him with knowledge old and terrible, then laughs, rusty and slightly unhinged, “Father died. Clarus died. Luna -the Oracle- died. Insomnia burned and the world soon followed. The night devoured the day and the daemons roamed unchecked, people died in droves while I SLEPT in Crystal and when I woke up all I could do was say goodbye to my brothers one last time and then let the Old Kings kill me so that whoever was left would at least have a dawn by which to rebuild the civilization of the world. And then I woke up.” Nox faltered, swallowed hard, “I woke up, and I’ve been wondering why ever since.”

-Weskham breathes past the knife-sharp feeling in his throat, the horrible memories of WAR he can see reflected in Nox’s eyes.

-He manages to walk away without stumbling by sheer dint of will. Collapses in his suite to shake in a chair and wish he had never noticed, never asked. Never known.

...

-For Prompto, the biggest clue was their first meeting. When he was crying over his camera and Nox was desperate to cheer him and babbled and called him “Prom” as warm and loving and familiar as if they were family and not a little crying boy and a nice stranger on the street.

-He never forgot that meeting. Never really believed Nox’s excuse of memorizing who Noctis’s classmates where.

-Nox is weird. Nox is ... really weird. Always has been. But that’s okay, because he’s Nox, he’s Noctis’s big brother and kinda Prompto’s big brother after Cor adopted him so ... so it’s okay.

-Except for the time it isn’t.

-Except for the time Prompto makes the mistake of binging way too many sci-fi shows in one sitting and then spots Nox and Noctis together and notices how similar their voices were now that Noctis wasn’t a little kid, how they wrinkle their nose in the same way when they���re baffled and- and-

-It’s a really dumb idea okay? He gets that, he KNOWS that. Except ... it makes a lot of sense too. The more he thinks about it, the harder he shoves the preconception of “of COURSE they’re two different people” in a little box, the more he realizes it MAKES TOO MUCH SENSE.

-Nox’s habits, his ticks, the way he KNOWS Noctis and Ignis and Gladio and Prompto. The way he looks at them sometimes like they’re fragile glass pictures that are going to shatter. The way Axis has said once that he wasn’t Nox’s FIRST Shield, but that Nox’s original Shield was gone-.

-Prompto maybe spends the next week hyperventilating in his room when no one is looking and trying very hard to NOT blurt out the question “are you a time traveller” whenever he sees Nox.

-Eventually he can’t resist, eventually he tests. Runs up and slaps Nox on the shoulder with a friendly, “Yo, Noctis!” when they’re both alone in a hallway of the Citadel and something in his stomach drops out when Nox doesn’t go “huh?” but instead just chuckles and goes, “Hi Prom,” before Nox FREEZES.

-Its the freeze that really sells it in Prompto’s mind, the look of confusion and devastation on Nox (NOCTIS’S) face that makes him instantly regret trying anything. Prompto babbles something about tongue slip and meaning Nox, OBVIOUSLY, because OBVIOUSLY they were two different people, being brothers and all and seven years apart and-

-And there is something so very sad in Nox’s eyes as he murmurs, “You always were a bad liar, Prom.”

-Oh. Oh dear. Prompto swallows and hunches in on himself without thinking, “So ... I was right then.”

-Nox nods slowly and the silence is ... awkward. Tense. Filled with something Prompto can’t name or describe and suddenly he’s apologizing. He’s apologizing and almost in tears and when Nox, baffled and alarmed, asks why-

-“I don’t remember you. You look at us and you remember, and we’re your brothers and we PROMISED ‘ever at your side’ but I don’t REMEMBER you and Iggy and Gladio don’t even know-.” He stops, he sniffles and another horrible thought comes to him and since today is the day for turning off his brain to mouth filter apparently he whispers, “Did we die? Is- is that why we didn’t come with you to the past?”

-Nox takes a shaky breath and runs it through his hair, “No-, no you all- you all lived. As far as I know. Up until the point I ... came back, you were all alive and ... well. Just a little banged up, but okay.” Nox (Noctis, a broken Noctis, a Noctis from a future that had to have been horrible because Prompto’s SEEN some of the scars and he doesn’t want to think about that-) blinks wet eyes and suddenly blurts, “Don’t tell anyone. Please? Especially not- especially not the others.”

-Prompto nods, because of course, he’s not an idiot and he doesn’t think they’d believe him anyway. Nox coughs awkwardly in his throat and starts to walk away with hunched shoulders and Prompto will never know why he opened his big mouth again or why, of all things, he chooses to say, “Yo, Nox?”

-Nox (not Noctis, because they ARE two different people now and Prompto prays it stays that way) blinks over his shoulder and Prompto musters up his biggest grin as he blurts, “Thanks, you know? For ... everything. You’ve really Walked Tall.” He doesn’t know what those words mean, or why he chose “walked tall” of all things but he knows in a second his words MEAN something more than he can ever comprehend because Nox’s eyes go wide-

-And suddenly Nox is hugging Prompto. Clinging to him like he’s an anchor in a storm and all Prompto can do is hug back as fiercely as he can while tears drip onto his shirt, and Nox shakes like he’s about to fall apart and somewhere in the harsh breathing of the time-traveler-brother-friend in his arms, Prompto could swear he hears Nox whisper, “I miss you so much, Prom- I can’t-,” but then Nox goes silent, and astrals Prompto’s crying too, because he always was a crybaby and something inside him hurts in a way that makes it hard to breathe (is this what Nox was feeling? Is this what he felt those days he looked at them with too-old eyes? No wonder he always left the room, Prompto wants to scream already and Nox has felt this for years-).

-Nox pulls away, rests his forehead on Prompto’s for just a second and it feels like a thank you.

-It feels like a goodbye. But not to him. It’s a goodbye to the weight falling off Prompto’s shoulders, like hands letting go as a shadow fades away.

-Nox retreats, disappears around the corner without a word and with a too-bright-too-old look that means Prompto’s set off a Quiet Day and Prompto-

-Prompto goes back to his room and hugs his old chocobo plush tight. He’s not in the mood to go play video games with the others right now.

-Days later Nox finds him again and wordlessly, gently, passes him a leather-bound book. A memento, Nox calls it sadly, I’ll want it back when you’re done, he murmurs before slinking away.

-Prompto hides it where even Cor wouldn’t think to look because he doesn’t dare put it in armiger (the armiger Noctis gave him, the armiger Noctis might find it in accidentally). He hides himself under his covers like he’s a little kid again, holds his flashlight tight in one hand and his chocobo plush under his other arm as he flips it open and sees-

-Photos. His photos. His style, with all of them (Ignis, Noctis, Gladio, himself) in them. He doesn’t know the context for them but- it’s a journey. It’s a roadtrip in film and Prompto spends hours carefully flipping through each page, staring at snapshots of battles not fought and fishing holes not visited and silly moments not laughed at anymore. It’s Nox’s life in a nutshell, Prompto thinks as he looks through photos taken in dark dungeons and sunlit deserts. Injuries and health, insomnia and energetic smiles. The last photo is of them, on a campground he recognizes. It’s the one just outside Insomnia, where you can see the bridge leading to the island and the lighting is usually amazing. This one is at night, and they all look older, thirty or more whereas in the others they are only twenty or so. Noctis- Nox, is in the center, smiling with the soft, sad eyes that Prompto remembers from that first meeting, Gladio looming behind him and Ignis at his side with a visor that doesn’t hide the scars on his face. In the middle, one arm slung over Ignis’s shoulders and the other over Nox’s like he can KEEP them there, forever safe and happy if he just holds on tight enough, is himself.

-There are no other photos.

-Prompto doesn’t need to be told why.

-He returns the book to Nox the next day, and refuses to acknowledge Noctis’s puzzled look when he hugs Nox tight and doesn’t mind when Nox hugs him back. Then Prompto smiles, because that’s his job in the group, to be the one who smiles when things are dark, and he drags Nox over to play Kings Knight with the four of them. And maybe things aren’t perfect, because now Prompto KNOWS and he can never un-know, but things are better. Because Nox is here, and Nox fixed things, and Nox is never going to let Noctis become him, so Prompto doesn’t have to worry about that and can instead focus on keeping both of his kings smiling and laughing and happy.

-He can hold on, and this time, no blood or road trip or daemon-infested future will be able to make him let go.

(hgfdhg congrats I just made myself cry. Everyone suffer with me. @wolfsrainrules @hamelin-born @ean-sovukau @rayearthdudette @sparklecryptid COME SUFFER WITH ME.)

[caseofthestolenspecs]

Poor Prompto’s suffering a nasty case of hypothermia and it's up to Ignis to warm him up!

(Thanks for this one, kind anon! I had a lot of fun!!)((Send me a prompt!))

Ignis wasn’t sure whose bright idea it was for everyone to go on a weekend vacation, but somewhere along the way, he’d ended up getting roped into being the driver. Not that he minded, of course - he was used to driving long distances - but while he was confident in his abilities, he was a little nervous about driving along icy highways. He also wasn’t sure whose idea it was to go skiing, far up north where there was at least three feet of snow on the ground at all times, and yet, here they were, suitcases packed to the brim with winter wear in the trunk of the Regalia. He’d personally never been skiing before, but apparently Gladiolus had - and so had Prompto, claiming he’d gone skiing once during a class trip in high school.

Therefore, this little excursion had ‘disaster’ written all over it, but Ignis promised himself he would swallow his reservations about it all and just… relax. To try his very best to have a good time with his friends, regardless of what shenanigans could potentially be on the table.

They’d rented two small cabins at the resort, situated right at the lakeside and in walking distance of the nearest ski hill. Ignis, under the assumption that Noctis and Prompto would be sharing one cabin together, had prepared himself well in advance for the thunderous snoring that was sure to erupt from his larger companion’s airways all weekend. But to his surprise, Gladiolus and Noctis claimed one of the cabins for themselves the second they got there. Peculiar, Ignis had thought. Prompto must have thought the same, because after a brief moment of stuttering and gesturing absently in Noctis’ direction, he announced cheerfully, “Last one there’s a rotten egg!”

Ignis was the rotten egg.

Thankfully, his inexperience with skiing didn’t spoil his weekend.

While Gladiolus and Noctis went off on their own, Prompto opted to stay behind and help Ignis learn the basics. Ignis felt embarrassed from being fussed over in such a manner, but Prompto didn’t seem to mind - he was all smiles, his enthusiasm never waning even when Ignis got frustrated in the beginning.

“You can do it, Iggy!” Prompto had crowed, as Ignis attempted to walk with skiis on for the first time.

“Once more and I just know you’ll be a pro in no time,” encouraged Prompto, after Ignis slipped and fell square on his ass.

“Hells yeah, my man! Look at you, workin’ it!” Prompto later cheered, a one-man applauding audience to Ignis as the man successfully skied down the beginners’ slope.

Ignis hoped he could blame the blush that had spread across his cheeks purely on all of the exertion he’d been doing, and not on the odd feelings that had begun to bubble in his chest the longer he spent one-on-one time with Prompto.

Day two went swimmingly. In the evening, the four of them dined at the resident fancy restaurant for dinner, stopping by the nearby corner store to pick up some booze for the evening afterward. As expected, Prompto and Noctis went off on their own, leaving Ignis and Gladiolus to their own vices for the time being. Ignis stayed over at his friend’s cabin, the pair sharing a bottle of wine between them while they chatted the night away.

“So,” Gladiolus mused, “Havin’ fun with Prom?”

“As a matter of fact, I am,” replied Ignis, leaning against the armrest of the couch. “He’s quite pleasant to be around.”

“Oh yeah?” Gladiolus’ tone was like a challenge, with his stance to match.

“Yes.” Ignis looked over at him suspiciously as he took a slow sip from his glass. “And just what, pray tell, are you implying with this line of questioning?”

“Dunno what you’re talking about,” Gladiolus dismissed with a wave of his hand. “Just makin’ friendly conversation.”

“Hm,” hummed Ignis.

While they continued to chat and sip wine, Ignis thought about Prompto a lot for the remainder of the evening. The way his fair hair and blue-violet eyes made him look right at home among the glittering snow, the soft titter of his laugh, the way he’d chew on his lip when he appeared nervous.

How had he never noticed such things before?

Soon, the evening turned to night, and the night turned to… late. Noctis and Prompto still hadn’t returned from wherever it was they had gone off to. Ignis pulled out his phone to check the time. 1:00A.M. Just when he was about to question Gladiolus, the man piped up on his own.

“Just got a text from Noct. They’re fine. Just wandered off for a bit,” Gladiolus said with a yawn. “Think I’m gonna hit the hay. I’m smashed after today.”

“Agreed,” Ignis replied, slowly getting to his feet. “Thank you for the wonderful evening, Gladio.” With a wave he was off, leaving Gladiolus’ cabin to make for his own.

When he arrived, it was empty, the popping embers of the fireplace the only sign of life. He went over to stoke the flames, reigniting them in preparation for the remainder of the night’s cold flare. He then cleaned up the cabin a bit, making Prompto’s bed for him before he got himself dressed and ready to call it a night.

When he finished, there was still no sign of Prompto.

Odd, he thought. Was he not on his way back not that long ago?

He shouldn’t worry; Prompto was an adult, after all. Surely he was fine, just gotten distracted on his way back home with Noctis, most likely.

Then why did Ignis feel it necessary to wait up for him?

Grabbing one of the cabin’s complementary books from the side table, he decided to give it a read in bed while he waited.

The book, as he expected, was terrible.

He sighed.

2:06A.M.

Where was he?

Right when Ignis considered getting dressed and setting out to look for his wayward companion, he heard the creak of a door hinge, followed by heavy wood dragging across the floor and weighted boot steps in its wake.

“Oh shit, Iggy, you’re still up, hey,” Prompto greeted. “Guess I don’t need to worry about waking you, huh?”

“Prompto,” Ignis heaved his name in a sigh. “I was worried you’d perished under an avalanche.”

“Heh… yeah, wouldn’t that be something,” Prompto laughed weakly, stooping by the door so he could remove his boots.

Something seemed… off about his companion. He was moving rather sluggishly, his voice seeming to quake with stilted words. It was as if he were trying his best to prevent…

….his teeth from chattering.

“Prompto?” Ignis asked again. “Is everything all right?”

Nerves flared as Prompto’s speech flowed freely.

“Oh yeah! S-sure,” Prompto insisted. “Totally, v-v-very… f-f-f-f-fine, it’s… it’s all p-p-peachy here!”

Ignis watched with a stern eye as Prompto shuffled his way over to the fireplace, setting up the drying rack before he peeled off his jacket and toque.

In the glow of the fire, it wasn’t difficult to notice Prompto’s dripping wet hair, his paler-than-normal freckled skin, and his lips looking a tad bit blue.

“Just what were you out doing with Noctis this late?” Ignis asked, trying his best not to sound as accusatory as he was, but failing in his concern.

“Oh, you know. We f-found this awesome place and may have g-g-gotten a bit out of hand,” Prompto mused. “We, also, uh, kinda l-l-l-lost track of t-t-ime, so, that’s why I took s-so long, heh.”

“Prompto?” Ignis continued suspiciously. “Are you all right?”

“I’m totally hunky-dory, dude, i-i-it’s all goo–” Just as Prompto attempted to step out of his ski pants, he tripped, falling to the side. Ignis was right there in record time to catch him, hands clasping his arms as he pulled him back upright. Ignis nearly recoiled when his bare hands made contact with Prompto’s skin.

“Prompto, you’re like ice,” Ignis hissed. “What happened?”

“I’m fine!” Prompto reiterated. “Like I said, we just—”

Ignis gave him a look.

Prompto sighed. “We, uh,” he began, then paused as he glanced away sheepishly.

“Yes?” Ignis urged.

Prompto groaned, shaking off Ignis’ hands. “We m-m-may have gotten a little bit c-c-carried away is all. I’m just gonna curl up in f-f-front of the f-f-f-fireplace for a bit, and—”

“Prompto.”

Prompto curled his arms around himself defensively, shoulders drooping. “Okay, okay. So there’s a high chance that Noct may or may n-n-not have d-dared me to skinny dip in the lake, and I may or may not have totally done it. O-k-kay?”

Ignis just stared at him. “You what?”

Prompto threw his hands up defensively. “I know, I know. Not the b-best idea in the world, but y’know, it’s a pretty g-good one when you’re tipsy. Anyway, I’m tired and cold, I’m gonna go and just—”

“You’re beyond cold, Prompto,” Ignis said sternly. “I’m at grounds to call up the resort’s medical team. This is serious.”

“Oh, gods, please don’t,” Prompto moaned.

“You would rather risk dying instead?”

“Dude!”

“Well?”

“I… hate doctors.”

“I doubt there is anyone in the world who is fond of them, but—”

“So what, are you trying to suggest that we sh-should just… strip down and cuddle in one sleeping b-b-bag like in the movies instead?” Prompto blurted out.

Silenced passed between them.

Pop pop crackle went the fireplace.

Prompto shivered, his voice wavering as he tried to follow up that statement. “Oh, no,” he wailed.

“If you insist on not calling a doctor, then I’m afraid that may be the only other option you have on the table,” Ignis explained cooly. “Therefore, it is entirely up to you to choose the lesser of two evils, and I implore you to make your decision quick before your condition worsens.”

A strained whine came from Prompto. “What if they’re both equally evil?”

“If the thought of me in the nude is that deplorable to you, then Gladiolus, the living furnace, is just next door and he is but a simple ring away,” Ignis muttered. He pulled out his cell phone, preparing to make said phone call, but then–

“No!’” Prompto yelped. “No, it’s fine! Gods, no. It’s just…”

“Yes?” Ignis asked.

“…you’re not ‘deplorable’ at all. It’s just that….” Prompto tried again.

Ignis stared at him.

“…dammit,” Prompto grumbled.

“Shall I call the doctor, then?” asked Ignis, his hands on his hips.

Prompto chewed on his lip, running his fingers through his damp hair. “No.”

“Gladio?”

“Noooooo.”

“Then?”

“…just… turn off the lights, would you?” Prompto said in defeat.

Ignis heaved a sigh. He did as he was asked, flicking off all the lights before he went over to the bed to gather up the blankets. “Come along, now. Clothing off. I’ll set up the makeshift bed, and will even turn around while you get in.”

“…okay,” Prompto agreed.

Ignis did so while Prompto retreated to the other side of the room, taking care to layer up the fireside ‘bed’ with all of their available blankets. Setting the pillows down on the floor to signify he was finished, he then turned away before announcing, “Go ahead, Prompto.”

He heard the soft padding of Prompto’s bare feet across the wooden floor, the light brush of fabric, and then the settling of weight. “Okay, uh… ready,” Prompto’s voice came. He sounded nervous. Uncertain.

Ignis shed his clothing, letting it fall to the floor without a care and a push of his socked foot to the side. “Very well,” he replied, stepping over to the bundle of blankets. Prompto’s head seemed to disappear into them, much like a turtle in its shell, and Ignis couldn’t help but find the sight both amusing and endearing.

As he began to lower himself to the floor, he paused, feeling nerves bubble up inside of him again.

Why?

This was but a simple medical procedure, was it not?

He puffed a breath, then lifted the blankets so he could enter the shared cocoon. Upon settling in, Prompto appeared to be on the opposite side of their magnetic pole, having moved as far away from Ignis as possible.

“Prompto,” Ignis mused, his tone light, “I’m afraid you’re going to have to come a little bit closer for this to work.”

“Oh, uh. Right. Right.” Prompto remained where he was for a moment longer before he began to awkwardly shift his body toward Ignis, bunching up the blankets in the process. Soon, his back was touching Ignis’ front, just barely, then he stopped.

Ignis waited.

And waited.

He didn’t move another inch.

“Prompto?” asked Ignis.

“Uh huh?” Prompto squeaked.

“You’ll have to come closer still. And turn around, would you? The most important part of you needs to be warmed up first.”

“What?!” Prompto yelped.

Ignis sighed. “Your core, Prompto.”

“…oh.”

Prompto laughed nervously, then slowly rolled over onto his opposite side, facing Ignis at last. When he didn’t scoot closer, Ignis took it upon himself to correct the issue of his own accord. He reached toward him, then gently coaxed Prompto into his arms, wrapping them around him as he drew him close against his body.

He felt Prompto’s muscles tense all at once beneath his hands. His body, as cold as ice, caused goosebumps to rise along Ignis’ skin immediately, but he tried his best to hide his discomfort for Prompto’s sake. After all, he wasn’t the one who had just taken a plunge into a below freezing lake; he could handle a bit of cold for awhile.

“Are you all right?” Ignis whispered.

“…yeah,” Prompto eventually replied.

Ignis could feel the racing of a heart in a chest; but whose heart, he wasn’t certain.

“…you’re really warm,” Prompto murmured.

“Amazing how remaining inside a heated cabin instead of skinny dipping in zero below weather does wonders for body temperature,” Ignis teased.

“Hilarious, really, Iggy,” mumbled Prompto. “But seriously… you’re like… really warm. Guess there’s a reason why they call you ‘Ignis’, huh?”

Ignis chuckled. “Certainly never heard that one before. Feeling better already?”

“…yeah. Thanks… I…really appreciate this. This must be like, really awkward for you, so—”

“I assure you, Prompto, it’s no trouble at all.”

Ignis felt Prompto tuck his head against his chest. The gentle tickle of his warm breath against his skin, combined with the brush of his damp hair and the closeness of his body as a whole served as a reminder of their current predicament.

Ignis had never been close to another person like this before.

He wondered if this happened to be Prompto’s first time as well.

“…y’know, Iggy…” Prompto began after a moment of silence had passed between them.

“Yes, Prompto?”

Prompto took a deep, slow breath before continuing. “…I had a really great time this weekend.”

Ignis smiled. “Me as well. It was nice to get away from it all, was it not? And with friends, too. New experiences, and lifelong memories as a result.”

A pause. “…uh huh,” Prompto replied.

“…is there something wrong, Prompto?” Ignis inquired.

“…no,” Prompto assured, “Nothing’s wrong. It’s just…” Prompto lifted his head. It was then that their eyes met, seafoam green and violet-blue, and when his lips parted, no further words came.

Ignis, too, was speechless. His mind drawing blanks, the only phrase echoing in the chambers of his thoughts being ‘What exactly is happening?’

Prompto’s pale skin became flushed, all at once.

“I had a great time… with you. Especially,” Prompto admitted.

Ignis felt his breath hitch in his throat.

“As did I, Prompto,” Ignis whispered.

Just as Ignis hadn’t been sure whose heart was racing earlier, he was also unsure of who it was that initiated their first kiss, either. Like ice greeting the morning sunlight, chilled lips thawed in no time, bodies melting in a warm embrace.

[15219is2ip]

Frozen Final Fantasy XV Teen -*DISCLAIMER*- I do not own any of the characters, places or otherwise in this story. I’m not profiting from this. “Reminder to all Insomnia Residents please stay inside a winter storm warning is in effect until Monday at 8 am.” Prompto shut off the TV well there may have gone his Saturday and Sunday with Noct the weather was supposed to get really bad with hazardless road conditions. He shot Iggy a text hey saw the weather don’t want you to risk coming get me if it’s bad stay safe. Noct and I will just have to play Kings Knight over our phones.” He hit send. Went to the kitchen to heat up some soup then settled on the couch and opened the Kings Knight app. He played until his phone literally died on him. Standing up he went to plug it into the charger when the power died.  Prompto sighed he made his way to his bedroom by feel and got under the covers to go to sleep. He awoke with the room still dark his fingers and toes felt like blocks of ice he reached over to turn on the lamp and was dismayed when nothing happened he got out of bed and felt around his sock drawer until he found his heaviest pair of socks he put them on his feet. Wondered if he could locate his gloves in the hall closet and decided he’d just tuck them under his pillow and went back to bed.  Next, he awoke he was hungry and thirsty and the sun was up kind of it was brighter even though most of what he saw was millions of snowflakes. It was beautiful or would be if he wasn’t cold and still without power. He went to the bathroom his foot hit a puddle of water on the floor sending him hurtling into the bathroom he hit the side of the tub with enough force that he heard a dismaying crack from his ankle. All before he collided with the faucet knocking the poor kid out.  He awoke freezing heart racing and breathing hard and fast. The pain in his leg was unbearable and his head felt like it was going to explode. This hadn’t been how he expected to die and let’s get real broken ankle head injury and probably hyperthermia the chances of him making it were slim. His friends probably wouldn’t be able to surpass the roads until Sunday or Monday. He hoped they were warm and safe and that Noct wouldn’t let grief consume him. He also thought of Luna and the promise he had made her to be ever at Noct’s side. “Hey six if you can hear me please help Noct he needs someone he can be himself with not just the prince.”  With that Prom let himself fall back into darkness. Noct was dreaming Luna and he were laying in a field of flowers when suddenly it turned really cold Gentiana approached him. “I’m sorry for interrupting your time with the oracle but your best friend needs you wake up Prince Noctis” she said pressing a flower made of ice into his hand. Noct awoke his hand was freezing he glanced down to see an ice rose in the palm of his hand. Shit it was a message Prom was in trouble. He jumped out of bed and ran to the guest bedroom. Ignus had stayed at his apartment insisting some one should stay with him in case of an emergency during the storm. Now he was glad. “Iggy wake up” He yelled shaking Ignus awake. “Noct..What’s the matter” Ignus sat up wiping the drool from his lips Six he hated that he drooled in his sleep but apparently his sleeping body was less than perfect. Noct said it was cute the on the extremely rare occasions he had awoken Iggy. “Iggy Gentiana spoke to me in a dream Prom’s in trouble she left me an ice flower and it was in my hand when I woke up. Please Iggy..” Noct whined Ignus got up and reached for his phone. “I will call Gladio he’s training with emergency services this weekend. You try to text Prompto.” Ignus commanded. Prom was dreaming again a beautiful blonde woman was sitting in a field of vivid blue flowers. “Hi Prompto, I’m Luna please be strong and don’t give up. Your friends are coming you just need to make it until they get there.  Can you do that for me and more importantly for Noct. You are one of a kind he needs you by his side.” She smiled warmly at him. “I won’t give up. I will never intentionally leave his side.” He swore. He woke up shivering and needing to pee bad but instead of lying still he forced himself to grab the side of the tub. He managed to pull himself up onto the side sitting there a moment. His bladder let lose which was very embarrassing but not his first concern. He pulled the shower curtain around him and rested a moment. His ankle was a dull throb, but it should have been much worse meaning he was losing feeling in his extremities, He needed to get warm. He pulled himself over the side and started pulling himself towards the bedroom and his blankets. He only made it a quarter of the way before he passed out again. “Iggy he’s not answering I called his house too, but no one is picking up.” Noct said. Noct had never been so worried it was unusual for them to not hear from one another and for the astrals or at least their messenger to intervene. “Gladio is close he’s going to pick us up in a Sno-Cat half the city is out of power including Prompto’s neighborhood maybe he just couldn’t charge his phone. We’ll pick him up and bring him back here.” He said laying his hand on the prince’s shoulder. “Dress warm I will pack a few potions and such just in case. They ran downstairs and got into the Sno-Cat. Noct noted that the power was out on this block too only his building had power. “The palace made sure the building had a backup generator.” Ignus answered the unasked question. “It’s not fair because I’m the prince I get warmth and light while everyone else has to suffer.” Noctis whined. “Your security and safety are in everyone interest. If you die, there is no one to maintain the wall when your father dies. By protecting you we protect everyone.” Gladio responded. He pulled away driving as fast as he dared towards Prompto’s place. He prayed the blondie was okay. Prompto became conscience again he took a moment and then started pulling himself towards his bedroom again. It was so hard his muscles didn’t want to cooperate, but he had to keep going for Noct plus he didn’t want to die.  Why was he so cold he couldn’t remember forgetting to turn the heat up but as soon as he got to his bedroom he could cover up. Why was he heading there again? For Noct he wasn’t sure what his bedroom and Noct had to do with each other. He pulled himself along his breathing and heart slowing. He stopped to watch the chocobo in the Hallway when had he gotten a chocobo he was so cute Black fluffy feathers that reminded him of Noct. They were 3 blocks from Prompto’s when they ran into an accident the car had slide into a closed arcade. They hopped out checking the scene they found the driver had a concussion broken arm the passenger seemed fine other then she was minutes from having a baby. Gladio got on the radio calling it in while Ignis got both driver and soon to be mother in the Sno-Cat. There was a brief argument which ended in Noct getting his way they filled bag with a few medical supplies and he left on foot.  He only had rudimentary medical training from Gladio and health class in school and childbirth wasn’t part of it. So, he wouldn’t be much help with the accident victims. He hoped Prom wasn’t too bad off because they would be on there own until someone could get to them. He wanted to run but Ignis had reminded him that if he got hurt on the way he would be putting both him and Prompto in danger. So, he cautiously made his way hoping Prom would be okay until he got there. Prompto was very hot he struggled until he got his clothes off He turned seeing the rare black feathered chocobo had gained a friend a blond feathered one. He giggled now you just need a red and blue one and the gangs all here. The chocobo’s surrounded him laying down next to him. He felt very warm and happy he drifted back to sleep just as he went under he thought he heard Noct call to him. Noct got to Prompto’s and let himself in after arriving late one night before Prom got off work Prompto had made him a key. He insisted he didn’t want something happening to Noct when he could just wait inside. “Prom you okay it’s Noct.” He didn’t get an answer. The house was freezing not much warmer then outside. “Come on Prom where are you Ignus and Gladio are going to take us back to my place.” He called out not finding him downstairs he headed upstairs. It turned into a run when he saw his friend laying naked in the hallway he was very pale his fingers and toes had a blueish cast to them. His ankle was very bruised swollen and there was blood on his forehead and into his scalp. He ran to Prom’s room grabbing his comforter while dialing Iggy putting him on moggletooth. He laid the comforter over Prom knowing that the cold was their biggest enemy. “Iggy it’s bad he’s unconscious barely breathing slow pulse. There is a head injury and his ankle really swelled like the time he skateboarded down that steep hill. The heat and power are out. “He informed Iggy waited for instructions. “Okay first don’t move him and no potions His ankle may be broken, and head injuries are also tricky. The potion my do more harm if not properly administered. Gently check and see if he is still bleeding. If he is, you will need to apply pressure. The other even more important thing is to try to keep him warm layer blankets whatever you can find. Body heat works well too so after you do that climb next to him on his uninjured side and spoon with him. If he wakes up keep him conscience. I will stay on with you, but you need to be prepared in case you lose me.” Iggy informed the teen. Gladio was already on the radio “There is another team a block away Peter is it okay if we transfer you Jessie and baby Gladnis to them they have medical supplies and are more equipped to get you to the hospital. Our friend is in trouble he needs us.” Peter looked at him. “It’s fine we’ll be okay now thanks to you. We’ll send a prayer to the Six for you.” They drove the block meeting up with the other rescue group. They transferred the family to the other team and Gladio took off as fast as the cat would allow. Ignis prepared the back to receive Prompto. The minute the Sno-Cat arrived he sprang out running into the house. “Noct where are you guys.” Ignus called. “Upstairs right out side his room.” He shouted. Noct Gave Prom’s hand a small squeeze. “It’s going to be okay Prom. Ignus and Gladio are here we’ll get you fixed up in no time.” Prompto responded with a small groan. “That’s right Prom come back to us. It’s okay we got you.” He encouraged his friend. Ignus had reached them and was examining his head. Prompto let out a pained groan. “It’s not deep a few stitches and he should be okay. Let’s see that ankle now. This will need splinted before we move him then we can get him some where warm. Ignus immediately got to splinting the ankle by the time he finished Gladio had arrived. “Gladdy look at the Chocobos’.” The Blond slurred has Gladio gently picked him up being careful not to jostle his ankle. “Tell you what blondie when you get better I will personally sneak you into the citadel stables. Just stop taking 10 years off my life every other week okay.” They got him in the back of the Sno-Cat Ignus put Noct in charge of getting him to drink some heated broth out of a thermos while he irrigated and started stitching his head wound. Gladio set up a heated saline solution iv and wrapped him in space blankets. As soon as Ignus finished hi stitches Gladio started heading to the citadel medical wing. The one area of the citadel Prompto visited frequently. The Prince always stayed close when hi friend was sick or hurt so it was determined that it was more secure to just bring Prompto there.  Prom suddenly jerked up screaming tears streaming down his face has his gradually warming skin sent sharp pins and needle pains all through his body. “Prom what’s wrong” Noct cried. “Hurtsss..everywwhere..make it ssstop…Pleassse” Prom begged shivering. Ignis started massaging his limbs “Noct help me massage him he’s regaining feeling in his extremities. It can be quite painful, but we can’t administer pain killers until the doctors access him. This will help get the blood flowing. Prom I’m sorry I know it hurts but you’re going to be okay now.” Ignus assured the two. “Were almost there Prom the Doctor will get you fixed up and ease that pain.” Gladio added stepping a bit harder on the gas. Several weeks latter Gladio, Noctis and Ignus wheeled Prompto into the palace stables. His leg was healing but he still was still tiring easily. His eyes lit up as Noct opened on of the stable doors bringing a beautiful yellow feathered chocobo over. The chocobo kneeled placing its head in the blondes’ lap. “You’re such a pretty baby yes you are.” He cooed to the bird. The chocobo left out contented sighs at the boys’ ministrations. “When you get better you are going to learn to ride Sweetie here. That way you and Noct can go riding this year.” Gladio told him watching him beam. “Thank You I don’t know how you found me, but I couldn’t ask for better friends.” Prom Gushed.

[randomfandomimagine]

Love Triangle (Final Fantasy XV Scenario)

Requested by @xionroxas:

The s/o confesses their feelings for a chocobro, he rejectes them, and then other chocobro developes, confesses or whatever, his feelings for them. Maybe even a little fight or argument due to how the first chocobro could reject them

S/O CONFESSING TO GLADIO & PROMPTO CONFESSING TO S/O

You didn’t even know what you were feeling anymore. Or more likely, why you felt it.

You had the biggest crush on Gladio. Maybe because, even though he was big and strong, he was a sweetheart towards you and was always being protective and charming.

But you knew yourself, you fell for people so easily, hard and quick. And even though you were tempted to go and confess your feelings to him, you were worried about the repercussions. Scared of being rejected, of messing up your current relationship, of ruining the group’s dynamic. After all, Noctis and Prompto and Ignis were there too, you weren’t on your own.

Besides, you knew Gladio didn’t feel the same way. He surely saw you as a younger sibling, which explained why he was so protective of you, especially since you were a couple of years younger than him.

But even though you knew it, you needed to get it off your chest. You felt the urge to confess just to be able to sleep at night and stop thinking about him, smiling to yourself when thinking about something nice he told you or did for you that day.

“Earth to Y/N” Noctis teased, watching your thoughtful mood.

“You okay, buddy?” Prompto stared at you restlessly, even with that bright grin on his lips.

“Yeah” You stood up from your sitting spot in the ground where you had set camp and looked up at the other two, taking your eyes away from the fire that was keeping you warm during the night.

Buying the relaxed smile you gave them next, they got back to playing King’s Knight in their phones. Gladio and Ignis were chatting behind the prince and his best friend, so you took a deep breath to gather some courage and made the move.

It felt like every step you took towards them took an hour.

“G-Gladio” As soon as you started speaking, any traces of confidence disappeared. “Can I talk to you for a moment?”

The four men glanced at you, surprised. Ignis eyeing you suspiciously, wondering what could be going through your head. Noctis and Prompto shrugged it off soon after, though.

“Sure” The large man patted Ignis’ back before he turned around to face you. “Everything okay, Y/N?”

You both silently walked away from the group to have a private chat. Once far enough, you sighed and answered his question.

“Yeah, everything is fine! I just…” You suddenly found it impossible to hold his glance. “I, uh…”

Gladio laughed a little, amused by the sudden shyness. Especially since you were always teasing each other.

“What’s wrong, kitty got your tongue?” He smugly crossed his strong arms over his bare chest. “Spit it out already”

“I… Well, I…” It was now or never, so you forced yourself to stop fearing it to just say it already. “I have feelings for you”

You had thought of how to confess many times. Because Gladio –unknowingly –could be kind of patronizing. So you didn’t want to say ‘I like you’ or ‘I love you’ in case he playfully rubbed your hair and said he liked you too, as a friend that was.

And you didn’t want to give it too much importance because you knew Gladio, and he would make light of the subject whatever the case.

“Um…” It was the first time ever that you were seeing him flustered, out of his element. “You do?”

You just nodded because a lump had formed in your throat and were afraid to speak up.

“Sorry, Y/N” Those were the exact words you thought and feared he would say. “But I don’t see you that way”

He placed one big hand on your upper arm, and his touch almost made everything worse. Even keeping in mind the possibility of rejection, you had thought it would hurts less. It didn’t.

At least Gladio seemed to notice this because, as you figured, he tried to shrug it off.

“You should pick someone your own size” The big guy joked, gently punching you in the arm.

“Are you calling me short?” You went along, forcing a smile that was definitely see-through. “I might be short: compared to you, giant man!”

“What are you gonna do about it, shorty?” Gladio chuckled.

“Stomp away” You told him, turning around, only to then lower your voice so he wouldn’t hear what you were going to say next. “And suffer in silence…”

You heard him sigh as well while you started to walk away. You were suddenly feeling exhausted, but it was probably because the interaction left you apathetic.

So when you felt like you were far enough from them three, you plopped down in the floor and cuddled over yourself. You felt so hurt and helpless that you needed to isolate yourself from everything for a moment.

You wondered if you would start crying, but the tears wouldn’t really arrive to your eyes. You felt confused, not knowing if you were sad or disappointed or angry.

“Whatcha doing here alone?” An upbeat voice said behind you, followed by the sound of a pair of boots getting closer.

“Not now, Prompto” You knew that he only meant to help, but the last thing you needed at the moment was to put up with his jokes, even if they usually made you smile. You just weren’t in the mood for them and his rambling.

“Uh…” Hesitantly, he approached and crouched down next to you, not really daring to sit down. “Do you wanna talk? You sound really upset”

“You’d just think it’s stupid and laugh at me”

“No!” He uttered in a whisper. “I would never laugh at you! Especially about something that’s bothering you!”

You looked at him, hoping that your eyes didn’t look watery, and observed his expression. His eyebrows were knitted together in concern, but his eyes were warm and welcoming. Friendly, tender and inviting.

“I don’t want to pressure you, and if you really want to be alone I’ll leave right away” Prompto absently rested a hand on the ground to support himself in his squatting position. “But maybe you’ll feel better if you talk about it”

You stared at him, hesitating. Prompto was not the type of person to laugh at other’s misfortunes, but you just felt so utterly embarrassed and insecure, heartbroken.

Truth was, you needed to get it off your chest because everything started to feel overwhelming. The fears and questions from before were starting to swamp your head again, wondering if you had messed up and if it would be weird between you and Gladio now. If it would be with the guys too, even.

Besides, Prompto was your friend. And he was a sweetheart, not to mention that he always managed to make you crack a smile. It felt comfortable enough to tell him.

You guessed you could always ask him to leave you on your if it felt like too much, figured he’d give you some space if you asked him. Hoped he would.

“I messed up big time” You piped up after a moment of silence in which Prompto observed your features, worried but without wanting to urgue you. “And I made a fool out of myself, I feel so childish and stupid”

It truly felt like you had confessed an immature crush to a grown up man. Even if the age gap wasn’t too huge. But Gladio was more mature, and you were more like Noctis or Prompto. It kind of felt like you were in a different level to Iggy and Gladio anyway.

“Did something happen with Gladio?” Prompto sounded lost as he cautiously asked. “What… what happened? You always get along with him so well!”

You knew he didn’t mean it that way, but his comment just made you feel even worse about it all. You were so sensitive and emotional all of a sudden!

You had been crushing on Gladio for a while, daydreaming and getting excited whenever you interacted. Now all that was gone, and there was only embarrassment and awkwardness left now. His rejection broke your heart, even knowing it might be coming. You thought you shouldn’t have said anything.

“I know!” You whined, feeling tears arriving to your eyes.

“Huh?” Alarmed by your reaction, Prompto urgently plopped down on the ground –so heavily that he definitely hurt his butt –and placed an arm over your shoulders, shaking you a little to earn a reaction. “What’s wrong, Y/N?!”

“I confessed my crush to him and I made everything awkward!” You hid your face on your friend’s chest, seeking his comfort. “He obviously doesn’t feel the same way, I’m stupid!”

“You’re not stupid” Prompto gently rubbed your back, wrapping his free arm around your frame too in an attempt to make it better. “You were brave enough to tell him that, not everyone would have the guts to do it”

“But I shouldn’t have!” By that point you were sobbing, dwelling on your insecurities and misery. And feeling childish because of it too, just because you were denied of your stupid fantasy. “Of course he said no, what did I expect?”

“Hey” Your friend’s voice lowered into a whisper as he squeezed your arm to gather your attention. “Just because he doesn’t like you that doesn’t mean no one will”

“Why would someone like me? I’m immature enough to fall for a guy who’s just being nice to me, Prompto” You covered your face with your hands, hating to think that he was seeing your ugly sobbing. “And I’m clingy and…”

“You’re amazing” He cut you abruptly, sounding annoyed yet sad at the same time. “Y/N, you’re so much fun! You’re kind-hearted and loving and you have no idea how much you mean to me”

You shook your head and began to actually cry helplessly. You just needed to vent a little, you felt like you were overreacting but needed to let it out anyway.

“Oh, no!” Prompto begged, squeezing you desperately against him. “No no no! Please don’t cry, Y/N!”

“You just don’t understand” You were being capricious too, always being a hopeless romantic that had wanted to be in a relationship for so long. “I need someone to love me in that way, to see me as more than a friend. And when Gladio didn’t, it felt like I wasn’t worth being loved that way”

“You are worth that and more!” Prompto sounded absolutely outraged to be hearing such things. “You deserve the world!!”

“Well, no one has ever seen me that way!”

“Well, ma-maybe I… maybe I do!”

You stopped crying and pushed yourself away from Prompto, taken aback by his confession. Tears frozen in your eyes, you stared at him in shock.

Even under the dim moonlight, his freckles stood out visibly in his face as he had turned a deep pink color of blush. He bit his lip, nervous, and analyzed your response upon his outburst.

“I, uh…” The blond gawked, not really knowing how to react. “You… I… I m-mean it, Y/N!”

That was enough for you to believe him. And you couldn’t stop yourself, even before your brain subconsciously told your body to move. Even before you realized you wanted to actually do it.

Your hand moved on its own as you held him by the collar of the shirt and pulled him towards you so your lips met. The feeling of his sweet mouth against yours felt extremely reassuring, and it spread a warmth within you that you didn’t realize you urgently needed.

Even though it was a pleasant sensation, you immediately pulled away once you saw what was happening. You had just kissed Prompto!

When you looked at him, you met with his deep blue eyes. You two remained silent for a moment until something clicked in your heads that made you react.

“I’m sorry!” You both exclaimed at the same time, wide-eyed.

You didn’t really understand why he said it, but you felt bad for kissing him. It had been an impulse, almost an instinct. But you didn’t want to give him false hopes, lead him on when you didn’t even know how you felt about him.

You’ve always seen Prompto as that cute friend, as a very fun and loving guy that you adored to be with. Thinking about him as more than that was new for you, but it didn’t seem like a farfetched idea either.

Prompto was, in the end, more like yourself. More ‘your size’, like Gladio had said. You were in the same page, had the same sense of humor and similar personalities.

Surely, you belonged more with Prompto than with Gladio.

Prompto let out an awkward but adorable chuckle and averted his eyes from you. You found yourself smiling too, even if you also felt the urge to look away.

You needed to figure things out between you two.

EDIT: I wrote sequels, go read them! Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4

[faierius]

Have Your Cake and Eat It Too (IgNoct)

So the beautiful @eternallydaydreaming2015 sent me the request of “Compromises” with IgNoct as the pairing. I’ve never written them as a pair before, so this was fun to do. It kinda turned into something a little ridiculous. You can see where my train of thought started, and where it took an abrupt turn. But it was fun! I hope you enjoy it!! <3

Ignis let out a long-suffering sigh as he watched Noctis push aside each and every trace of plant matter on his dinner plate. It didn't seem to matter what he did, or how he cooked them, Noctis refused to eat his vegetables.

“Glaring at him probably won't change his mind,” teased Prompto, happily stuffing stewed Lucian tomatoes, caramelized onion, and pasta into his mouth.

“Unfortunately nothing else does, either,” sighed Ignis, adjusting his glasses.

“Maybe you should make a deal with him. Hold something he likes back until he eats them?” Gladio suggested, cleaning his plate.

“Yeah, I'm right here, guys. Just because I'm ignoring you, doesn't mean I'm deaf,” Noctis grumbled, slurping a long noodle into his mouth.

“I've tried that as well, Gladio. Noctis didn't even last a week before he came begging. Still never ate his veggies.”

Noctis' entire face flushed redder than the shunned tomatoes on his plate.

Prompto perked up, curious for any stories about his best friend. “What did you take away from him?”

The corner of Ignis' mouth quirked. “His favorite dessert.”

Noctis choked on his food.

“But he still didn't eat any vegetables?” Prompto asked as Gladio snorted.

“No, he didn't. But that was partially my fault; I couldn't say no to those sad puppy eyes.”

Prompto threw his head back and groaned. “Ugh! I know, right? Even the King couldn't say no to that expression.”

Ignis swallowed the sudden flood of saliva in his mouth. It had been too long since he last had those expressive midnight eyes peering up at him through tear-rimed lashes.

Clearing his throat, he shook his head and pulled his attention away from Noctis.

“It didn't work the first time, so don't even think about doing it again,” Noctis grumbled, finishing off his own meal.

“Wouldn't dream of it, Highness,” Ignis chuckled. “Now, shall we tidy up and get to bed? We've a long day ahead of us tomorrow.”

Noctis eyed Ignis suspiciously as Gladio vibrated with restrained laughter and Prompto happily ate his dinner. Ignis rose from his chair and crossed to Noctis to take his plate. His fingers grazed over Noctis' and he smirked at the man, his eyes obscured by a glare on the lenses of his glasses. The prince flushed red.

Taking away his dish, Ignis moved to Gladio.

“Want me and Prompto to clear out?” Gladio whispered, handing over his plate.

“Not necessary, but thank you.”

“Really? Even after that look you gave him?” snorted the big man.

“I prefer to be indoors where I won't be eaten alive by insects. I plan on spending my evening devising a plan.”

“For what?”

“To make Noctis eat his vegetables,” Ignis grumbled, eyeing the leftovers on the plate/

“You're still on that? I'd have given up by now. The kid's stubborn.”

“Ah, but so am I.”

***

Ignis' plan wasn't the most elegant, but it would serve his purpose. He was ashamed to admit it had taken him the better part of a day to come up with it and more ashamed by his method to carry it to fruition. His was a plan that required cunning, a touch of privacy, and hope he could distract Noctis well enough his taste buds wouldn't pick up on his trickery.

Earlier in the day, he had spoken with Gladio and set up the first half of his plan. Ignis would stay behind in the hotel under the guise of meal preparation for the group. Though that wasn't entirely incorrect, as he was going to be cooking up something special for Noctis. While he was busy with this, Gladio would spend the day entertaining the prince and Prompto. He never asked with what, and frankly, he didn't care all that much. Around dinner time, Gladio would make some excuse to Noctis, dropping him back at the hotel while he took Prompto out for a private evening. Gladio was more than willing to go along with the plan, as it gave him an excuse to spend time with his little chocobo.

Putting the finishing touches on his dish, Ignis set it out on the table in the main space of the room. He turned the plate so it was centered perfectly before standing up and resting his hands on his hips. With that complete, he now had to prepare himself. Noctis would be back in twenty minutes, but that was more than enough time. After all, it didn't take long to remove one's clothes.

Ignis just finished tying the sash of his apron when the door to the room opened and Noctis trudged inside, head down.

“Have a pleasant day, Highness?”

“If you call third-wheeling ple—holy crap.”

Ignis lifted a brow as Noctis' eyes roamed over him. He felt ridiculous standing here in nothing but his plain gray apron, underwear, and socks. Noctis preferred him nude beneath the apron, but he refused.

“W-wh-w-w-what's the occasion?” Noctis stuttered, swallowing hard.

“Do I need one?”

Shaking his head, Noctis shed his jacket and shoes. “But you baking and presenting it like this is a little...uh, suspicious?”

“Nonsense.” Ignis dismissed the man's concern with a wave of his hand as he bent down to slice into his immaculate dessert.

Easing himself into one of the armchairs, Noctis licked his lips. “What's so special about this cake that you decided to serve it up doing the apron thing?”

“It's merely a variation of my spice cake. The apron thing is simply for your viewing pleasure. However, if you continue to question my motives, I can always put my clothing back on,” Ignis told the prince as he handed over a large slice of cake.

Noctis took the dessert, eyes widening in a panic. “No! No, please don't. It's been a while, I just—thank you.”

The shy glimmer of excitement in Noctis' eyes made a little knot of guilt form in Ignis' gut. Everything he was doing was with the sheer intention of getting some vegetation into Noctis.

“What do you think, Highness?”

“It's good. Really good. Why don't you make this more often?” Noctis asked, licking frosting off his lips.

“It's very rich with the cream cheese frosting, but I suppose I can work it into the usual repertoire.” Perching on the arm of Noctis' chair, Ignis ran his fingers through thick black locks affectionately. He watched as the younger man practically inhaled the slice of cake, then turned to look up at him.

“That was amazing, Iggy. I think I need to work up an appetite and have another piece.”

“And how do you plan to do that?” chuckled Ignis.

Noctis twisted in his seat and tugged at the sash of Ignis' apron. “You know exactly how. But first, I'm gonna start with a palate cleanser.” Sliding his hand up Ignis' thigh, Noctis slipped his fingers into the leg of the man's Heather-gray boxer briefs.

“Impatient, aren't we?”

“C'mon, Ignis. It's been weeks!” whined Noctis, his fingers finding their prize.

Chuckling to himself, Ignis stooped over, tilting Noctis' chin up as he did. He pressed his lips against the man's, savoring the way the lingering sweetness of the cake mixed with a taste that was solely Noctis. “Shall we take this to the bed? I'll gladly let you have your fill.”

Gently dragging his teeth over his bottom lip, Noctis nodded and let Ignis pull him toward the bed.

***

Midnight was fast approaching when Gladio and Prompto showed their faces at long last. Gladio wore a satisfied smirk on his face, and Prompto sported a deep blush to match the hickeys on his jaw line.

“Ah, welcome back,” Ignis greeted as he set out plates and divided up portions of cake. “Have an enjoyable evening?”

“I did. How 'bout you?” Gladio glanced over his shoulder at Prompto, who nodded enthusiastically. “You guys?”

“I believe it was successful,” replied Ignis, glancing at Noctis. The prince sat up on the bed when Prompto joined him. Both the younger men had a pleased pink glow in their cheeks and moved like their limbs were filled with lead.

“So your carrot cake turned out well? And he actually ate it?”

Looking more alert than he had in two hours, Noctis turned his attention toward Ignis. “Carrot...cake?”

“Oh, you never told him, did you?” Gladio handed a slice over to Prompto, then dug into his own. “How did you not notice? There's orange flecks through the whole thing.”

“You are not helping, Gladiolus.”

“You made me eat carrots?”

“To be fair, buddy, you can't even taste 'em past the sweetness,” Prompto said around a mouthful.

“Ignis, you know how much I hate carrots! Is that why you did the apron thing?” Blue eyes narrowed dangerously. Prompto and Gladio raised curious eyebrows. Ignis lowered his head to hide his shame.

“It was the only compromise I could think of. You enjoyed the cake, did you not?” Crossing his arms, Ignis shifted his weight to one leg.

Noctis glared up at Ignis.

Prompto's eyes darted between his friends. “What's the apron thing?”

“I'm sharing the bed with Prompto tonight,” Noctis huffed.

Gladio roared with laughter while Ignis sighed heavily.

“Seriously...what's the apron thing?”

[arachnexdragoon]

LITTLE MUSE THINGS

MUSE: Aranea Highwind.

WHAT DOES YOUR MUSE SMELL LIKE?

If you manage to catch her after a shower, then she’ll smell like someone clean - soap, shampoo, nothing too strong or terribly remarkable since she doesn’t worry about brands. But more often than not, she’s been travelling for too long or just left a battlefield, when she’ll be smelling like gunpowder from armed Niflheim troopers, sweat and blood. Hopefully no inner daemon fluids... 

HOW OFTEN DOES YOUR MUSE BATHE/SHOWER? ANY HABITS?

Whenever she has the chance to. Usually, Aranea would shower regularly, every day (it’s something that didn’t happen during her childhood and she loves how water can soothe her sore muscles). She’ll go for quick, colder showers when on the run for a job, but if there’s ample time she’ll pick a long, hot bath until she almost falls asleep in the tub.

ANY BODY MOVEMENT QUIRKS? (E.G. KNEE SHAKES?)

Aranea fidgets - she’s usually twirling her hair or playing with the hem of her uniform. Her hands are usually never idle unless she needs to concentrate.

WHAT DO THEY SLEEP IN?

Anything more comfortable than regular battle gear. She doesn’t own a collection of proper pajamas, just old yoga pants and oversized, faded shirts that can’t be used for training anymore. If she feels cold, then she’ll add more blankets.

WHAT’S THEIR FAVORITE PIECE OF CLOTHING?

Flannel shirts. Aranea has lots of them in different colors, frequently larger than necessary. She’ll throw them over tanktops and match them with shorts and combat boots. She’s all about comfort and couldn’t care less about style, although she does give off an alternative/sports vibe. A good leather jacket would rank second.

WHAT DO THEY DO WHEN THEY WAKE UP?

Aranea hates mornings - she's a night owl and she functions much better during nighttime. She’ll wake up if necessary, but ideally she wouldn’t wake up until noon. Alarm clocks will be needed (at least two), as well as a lot of coffee (she won’t be a nice person until she’s had coffee). 

HOW DO THEY SLEEP? POSITION?

She has learned to adapt - her time as a mercenary taught her to basically command her body to rest anywhere; but if she’s in her own bed, Aranea will sprawl all over it, limbs going everywhere and frequently rolling over to the other side of the mattress if she’s with someone. She might steal the covers and the pillows...

WHAT DO THEIR HANDS FEEL LIKE?

Hands of a warrior - rough, sometimes bandaged from small cuts and with a few noticeable calluses. Now she’s with Niflheim and using gloves, the condition of her skin has improved, but it still shows the signs of the abuse they suffered in the past.

IF YOU KISSED THEM, WHAT WOULD THEY USUALLY TASTE LIKE? 

Strong and spicy - Aranea flavors anything remarkable when it comes to eating and drinking, so it can retain the flavor of hard liquor, of morning coffee, of good curry or even some pepper from a meal. Maybe peppermint if she’s been chewing gum.

Tagged by: @culinarystrategist (this was fun and I laughed while writing my answers because Iggy is the opposite of Aranea 99% of the time haha) Tagging: @triggerxhappy @pridevowed @kingsarma @forxthexfuture21 @sagefiredaggers and anyone else~

[ladyoftheglaive-blog]

Request writing readerxNoctis

Finally! Here's some writing! Say what!? About time I know. This was a request from a good friend here on Tumblr, and I know it took me forever to write, but it's done and I'm so sorry I took so long! I really do hope you enjoy it! Here you are @cho-cho-chocobros I really do hope it's all you were hoping for and I did your vision justice. ----------------------------------------------------- You were sitting on the edge of the couch laughing as you watched Prompto flail around trying to play a video game on the large tv. "Gaaahhh!" Prompto yelled as he scooted closer to the tv "they keep killing me!" "Well if you maybe would stop just standing in the open" Noctis said with a laugh "you're a sniper dude, go hide and snipe" You watched as Prompto failed as the character he was playing and switched to a new character "This ones gotta be better" Prompto mumbled as he focused intently on the game You smiled and stood up from the couch grabbing some plates with left over pieces of cake and taking them to the kitchen where Ignis and Gladio where standing and talking with a few drinks. "Did you enjoy your birthday?" You asked Ignis with a smile "Very much so" His face lit up and he nodded "it was very unexpected" You smiled as you rinsed off the dishes and put them away "I am looking forward to using my new coffee machine in the morning" "Great I'm glad!" You gave Ignis a hug and he gave you one back You walked back to the living room where Prompto was grinning from ear to ear playing the game and sitting way to close to the tv You sat down next to Noctis and cuddled up into his side as he wrapped his arm around you. You'd been dating the prince for a while now and he meant everything to you, and you to him. Ignis and Gladio joined everyone in the living room and immediately started giving Prompto hell trying to throw of his momentum. "Stop it!" Prompto yelled "I'm finally getting the hang of it" "But you're in the spawn room, you just died" Ignis said matter of a fact "Here, then you do better!" Prompto pouted as he shoved the controller into Iggys hand Ignis was rather good at the game, he flicked the buttons quickly and got kill after kill. Everyone sat in silence watching Ignis skillfully play the game, some sipping a drink here and there. Ignis won a few matches and then passed the controller over to Gladio with a smirk "It's not that hard, rather simple" he said pushing up his glasses Gladio just shook his head and leaned forward on the edge of his seat ready to kick some ass. Gladio is actually fairly decent at the game, he wins most of the matches and loses a couple, but always has an explanation as to why it wasn't his fault he lost. "Hey" Noctis looks at you with a smirk "your turn" You tense up, you hate being put on the spot. Also you've never played the game and wouldn't even know how and don't want to be embarrassed. "No I'm good" you shake your head "id rather watch you guys play" you sink even deeper into the couch cushions "Common do it" Prompto teasingly smacks your leg "No" you say shaking your head "No means no" Ignis jumps in "let her watch and maybe she'll want to play later" he finishes giving you a side look You appreciated Ignis jumping to your rescue and getting the boys off your back, you let out a sigh of relief The controller got handed off to Noctis and he played with such focused determination, he kept giving you looks to see if he was impressing you and you just "ooooed" and "awed" at your needy boyfriend with a happy smile The boys were super into the game, Gladio and Prompto were having a few drinks and starting to get tipsy and loud. Ignis sat in his chair his arms crossed and watched almost with a judgmental look at the tv, he was probably analyzing the gameplay and how they could play better and win. "You gotta play" Noctis put the controller in your hand, and you froze feeling your palms yet sweaty "I'm good" you mumbled trying to hand it back but Noctis threw his hands in the air with a smile "No! Common I bet you'll be better then all of us!" Prompto smiled at you with big begging eyes "I mean..." you started to say but Noctis pushed the start button on your controller and threw you into a match "Shit" you said as you panicked and started button mashing and running off the cliff and dying "Well oops... see I'm no good" you tried to laugh "Did you not read the tip on the loading page?" Noctis inquired raising an eyebrow "I totally was spacing out" you lied What no one knew was that you suffered severally from dyslexia. Reading was definitely not your thing and incredibly hard for you. You would rather fight a horde of daemons then try and read in front of everyone. "Again!" Prompto cheered with his drink "I suck" you snapped "Nah," Noctis said and put his hand on your leg "you've got this, just read the instructions on how to play the character" You shifted uncomfortably and tucked your leg under yourself Ignis was watching you intently now, he had his suspicions about you and your dyslexia. He was worried but intrigued to see the outcome. The game started again and you button mashed harder this time, gritting your teeth together "Read the instructions" Prompto said with a laugh "You're not even trying" Noctis teased you "let me show you" Noctis took the controller and opened the menu to the instructions and gave you the controller back "There you go" Noctis said with a smile You just stared at the screen, nothing made sense to you. You really did try and read it but you just couldn't and especially with the pressure you were panicking. "Good?" Gladio was watching you and seeing your chest rise and fall faster and faster, seeing you start to panic. "Fine" you mumble looking down at the controller "Uh?" Prompto started "is the text to small or something?" "Just nervous" you tried to smile "Why babe?" Noctis said poking your side "it's just us, we've done weirder things together" he smirked "Reading probably wasn't your best class was it?" Prompto teased "And I thought I was a slow reader" Noctis said with a laugh You were feeling your face get red and hot, you felt the tears beginning to brim on your waterline. You started getting flashbacks of school and all the harsh criticism and bullying you received for being dyslexic. Ignis noticed and gestured to Gladio then he gestured to you "You guys need to stop!" Gladio bursted out and stood up grabbing you and pulling you up from the couch You lost it, you started sobbing and wrapped your arms around Gladio and he walked out of the room and out onto the patio. Noctis bolted up and was going to run after you but Ignis stood in his way "Let me past" Noctis said through bared teeth "Leave her be" Ignis sighed and motioned Noctis back to the couch "What happened!?" Noctis yelled out feeling angry beyond belief. He never wanted to see you hurting or upset let alone let it be his fault. "Have you ever noticed anything with her and a possible disability before?" Ignis inquired pushing up his glasses and then crossing his arms "Uh what?" Noctis was taken aback "She struggles to read" Ignis said matter a fact Prompto was just sitting there with his mouth wide open, he felt so bad. "You're telling me she had issues reading? Like what dyslexia?" Noctis was starting to catch on and thinking back seeing the signs all along. "That's been my assumption" Ignis went on "the signs have been subtle but there" Promptos face got red and he put his head in his hands Noctis fisted his hands and looked around trying to think of how to fix his mistake Gladio was holding you out on the patio. The cold night air was helping you calm down and to cool you off. You pulled away from Gladio and angrily wiped the tears from your face. "I'm sorry" you said with a sniffle "Don't" he said sternly "I'll kick their teeth in" he started to say and you shot him a dirty look "What!?" He looked taken aback "I never want anyone to hurt you, you're like my little sister" he said Gladio and his family had been incredibly close to your family your whole life and more or less became each other's families, he honestly felt like your big brother. He was the whole reason you ever met Noctis and fell in love with him. "I should have told them" you said looking at the ground "It's not an easy thing to do" Gladio said resting his hand on your shoulder "I know..." you sighed You heard the patio door open and light footsteps come out, you recognized them. "Go away" Gladio grumbled You turned and saw Noctis standing there with the saddest face "It's fine Gladdy," you said with a smile wrapping your arms around yourself "I wanna be alone with him for a minute" Gladio gave you and unsure look and walked past Noctis making sure to shoulder him as he walked inside, almost knocking him over. Noctis brushed off Gladio and walked over to you "I am so sorry" he said in his most sincere voice "I am too" you said with a faint smile "I had no idea but I should haven't done that either way" he grabbed your hands "I should have told you" your eyes were starting to get glossy again "I understand" he said and pulled you into a hug and held your head against his chest "I never want to hurt you" he breathed into your hair his lips against your forehead "I want to be the one who protects you always and makes you happy" he kissed your head "I know" you smiled "I love you my princess" he whispered You smiled and looked up at him and kissed his lips "I love you too my prince" and you pecked his lips again "Do you forgive me?" He said "I mean I don't deserve it but I really do feel awful" "Of course I forgive you" "Promise me something" he put his hand under your chin and made you look into his eyes "Yes?" His look was intoxicating "Tell me everything, never hide anything from me and know that no matter what, I will always accept every part of you" he said seriously "I promise" You smiled and nodded your head and he smiled back at your going in for another kiss You heard the patio door slam open and footsteps running towards you You felt the air rush out of your lungs as a blonde blur slammed into you, grabbing you around the middle. "I'm so sorry!" Prompto yelled out sniffling, his eyes bright red "I had no idea! I'm such an ass" You wrapped your arms around him and gave him a huge hug "It's ok I promise I'm sorry too" you patted his back "No don't you dare say you're sorry!" He sobbed "Prompto everything's ok I promise" you said with a smile and a small laugh "I really appreciate how much you care and I know you wouldn't ever want to hurt me" "No never!" He let go of you and wiped his eyes and nose across his arm "Is everything alright out here?" Ignis asked peering out the door "Yeah" you smiled and grabbed both their hands "we are great" you laughed "Good, now come inside, I think it's time for a movie" Ignis smiled and walked away "That sounds good, lets go" you started walking back inside "I'm cuddling you both, just so you know" Prompto said his face still puffy and red You and Noctis looked at each other and bursted out laughing as you stepped back inside, grasping each other's hands and never wanting to let go.

[loonriderx]

51 c:

51: “Killed him? Wait, what, literally?”

(Doing these as I get inspiration for them, so they’ll be scattered over the next few days, probably.)

Prompto loved it when they made camp early. It mean he could wander away from the haven after dinner and take some good landscape shots at sunset without worrying about getting jumped by a naga or something.

He was snapping pictures of a distant garula herd when noise reached him, coming from the direction of camp. He turned, cupped one hand to his ear… sounded like someone yelling, but he couldn’t make out words, and the sound cut off as quickly as it had started.

He frowned. What the heck was that about? Nothing could’ve happened back at camp…

Could it?

He broke into a run, only careful of his camera as he didn’t bother putting it away. In less than two minutes, he was climbing the stone ramp to reach the haven, and he blinked. Ignis was standing with his face covered by one gloved hand. Gladiolus was sitting in his chair, hand over his mouth doing a poor job of concealing his snickers. Noctis was nowhere to be seen.

“Uh… what happened?” was all Prompto could think to ask.

Ignis let out a long-suffering sigh. “Noct claims I’ve killed him.”

More blinking. Prompto looked around for his best friend again. “Killed him?” he echoed, some worry slipping into his voice. “Wait, what… literally?”

Gladiolus burst into a full-blown laugh for several seconds before once more restraining himself to weird little half-giggles. Ignis’ eyebrow was twitching. “No,”he growled, pushing his glasses up to pinch the bridge of his nose.

Then Noctis’ voice came from inside the tent. “You poisoned me, Ignis!”

Prompto was no less confused than he’d been at the start. “Poisoned?”

The prince’s head poked out of the tent’s door, glaring daggers at his advisor. “He put… that… in my dinner!”

Prompto studied his friend’s face. Really, he looked fine to him. His eyes went back to Ignis, who’d dropped his hand in order to turn to Noctis. “Yes, Noct, the stew had carrots in it. And it’s had carrots in it every time I’ve made it.”

Noctis’ eyes went wide. He pulled back into the tent with the most exaggerated retching sound Prompto had ever heard. “How could you do that to me?!”

“You never even noticed before!” Ignis threw up his hands, though then his eyes turned to Gladiolus in a glare. “And if it weren’t for someone, you never would have.”

Gladiolus grinned. “What? I just asked him if he’d gotten over hating them, since he’d had them so many times.”

Prompto was absolutely flabbergasted. He moved to the tent, leaning over to look in. Noctis was lying on top of the sleeping bags, curled into himself as if his stomach was in terrible pain. “Uh… Noct…? They’re just carrots…”

The prince sat up as if on a spring. “Just carrots? Prompto, they’re the grossest thing in Eos! And he fed them to me!” He curled back into himself with a groan. “Gods, I’m gonna die at 20… I thought we were friends, Iggy…”

Ignis rubbed his temples, shaking his head. “Yes, I’m afraid you’ve caught me. I wormed myself into the good graces of the royal family all for the nefarious purpose of killing you by feeding you vegetables.”

Gladiolus started laughing again, and even Prompto had to snicker. Neither was deterred when Noctis leaned out of the tent to chuck pillows at both their heads.

[chocobroobsession]

The Red String - Chapter 10

Author’s Note: The next chapter in my soulmate AU fic about Ignis x fem!OC. This chapter heavily features Prompto. I am super excited about Episode Prompto coming out! I can’t wait to find out more about his time in Niflheim (I wrote this before all the trailers came out). I didn’t really take any liberties with that aspect of his story here, but his background is mentioned. Trigger Warning: mention of self-harm, talk of depression and suicide. Side note: If you find yourself struggling with depression/suicide/etc, and you need someone to talk to, I’m always here to listen. As someone who has struggled with depression and suicide, I try to be a good listener. I won’t know exactly what you’re going through, but I probably have an idea at least. *hugs* Word count: 2118

Chapter Masterlist

Chandra figured Ignis had gone back to the guys’ room to hang out. Either that or he went out for Ebony. She noticed he drank it all the time. It explained the scent she picked up on his jacket before. She contemplated the future laid out before her. The guys knew where to find another boat to head towards Lestallum. Prompto had invited her to continue to tag along, but she was unsure.

When they first arrived in Altissia, she had a strong sense of déjà vu. Though it was dark and the city had been torn apart by Leviathan, she could see the beautiful buildings and stand in awe at its grandeur. “My dream definitely took place here,” she had mumbled to herself. She had guessed that she had glimpsed the Hydraean and based on the guys’ stories, she knew they had been in Altissia before they came to Gralea. They had been traveling with that Prince Noctis guy until he was absorbed into that crystal that the Empire had stolen from Lucis. They had explained their journey to her, though they left out specific details, refusing to elaborate on certain events, such as their run-ins with the Empire and Chancellor Ardyn Izunia. “Yep, they definitely took part in the battle here. Did I really witness what happened to Ignis during the fight? And did I somehow intervene?” she wondered.

She rose from the bed and checked the bandages on her wrist. If she had roomed with the others, she would have had to sleep in a long-sleeved shirt, which was always too hot and uncomfortable to her. The only good thing about Ignis’s handicap was that he wouldn’t see the bandage and ask about what was there or what happened like the others ultimately would have.

She pulled the bandages off to survey the damage. Crusted blood covered the barcode, but the red lines made it less legible. She’d have to cut it some more to make a lasting impression, however. She went to the sink and scrubbed off the caked on blood. Just as she turned around to grab a towel, a knock came at the door and Prompto immediately burst in.

“Good morning, Chandra! Iggy’s back at the room so I thought I’d just see how you—holy shit what’s on your wrist?!” He noticed her barcode midsentence and couldn’t tear his eyes away. He had caught her off guard and she hadn’t had the time to react.

“It’s nothing! Nothing! You didn’t even give me the chance to respond! You just came bursting through the door! Shit, just forget it, okay!” She blushed and hid her wrist behind her back as she glared into the floor.

Prompto shut the door and made his way over to her. She backed into the sink, refusing to look at him. His voice came out soft, filled with understanding. “Chandra. It’s alright. You don’t have to hide it. I know what it is. I have one too.”

Her head shot up, and her eyes widened. “What?”

He pulled off the black band that encased his right wrist and he held it up to her face. She recognized the barcode and grimaced. For a second, she thought maybe he had been a scientist too who managed to escape, but his past was much worse than hers. She’d been caught red-handed, so she figured she may as well fess up. Prompto seemed to be the most understanding of the group, and now she knew why.

“Prom…it’s not exactly the same. Here, take a look.” She lifted her wrist and he gasped, taking in all of the cuts which crisscrossed over the thick black lines.

“Wow. I mean, I just cover mine, but you’re trying to mutilate yours.”

“No, that’s not what I meant. Look at the lettering.”

Prompto grasped her hand and studied the tattoo. “See how the barcode starts with ‘SCI’? That’s short for ‘scientist’,” she explained.

Prompto dropped her hand as though it was on fire and suddenly glared into her eyes. “Scientist!? But…but you said you were a doctor! You lied to us? Even after I stuck up for you? How could you? I trusted you, and all this time you were one of the people who…who would have turned me into a mindless killing machine if given the chance?!” Prompto’s freckled face reddened as he turned to exit the room. Chandra lunged after him, grabbing onto his wrist. He tried to shake her off, but her grip tightened.

“Wait, Prompto! Please let me explain! I swear I’ll tell you the truth! Just please believe me!” Tears started streaking down her pale cheeks as she held onto the blonde.

Prompto sighed and turned towards her. He always tried to see the best in people, and he couldn’t help but want to give her another chance despite the feeling of betrayal. “Fine, but seriously, don’t lie to me again.”

“Okay,” Chandra whispered. “Truth is, I’m not actually from Niflheim. I’m from Tenebrae. I was essentially kidnapped and brought to Niflheim to be part of their science program. I didn’t want any of that, but I had no choice. I don’t exactly want to go into detail, but let’s just say they made good on their threats, and so I was forced to work in those labs. I really did want to become a doctor, but I guess my fate lied elsewhere. It was either work in the lab or suffer the consequences.” The tears were forming rivers down her red cheeks as she confessed to the man.

“You really had no other choice?”

All of her fears and insecurities were rearing their ugly heads. If someone like Prompto, who was sweet and friendly, couldn’t see past what she had done, then how could anyone else? She couldn’t help but allow herself to be swallowed in all of her depressing thoughts as she answered. “I didn’t. Plus I had nowhere else to go. I had no one left in Tenebrae. I mean, I guess I could have just killed myself, but I was selfish enough to not really want to die. I did at first, but I couldn’t bring myself to go through with it. Maybe I would have been better off dead.”

Prompto felt guilty. “Don’t say that!” He turned to her and wrapped her up in a hug. She stiffened initially, but allowed herself to hold him back and cry into his shoulder.

“I know what it’s like to be depressed and suicidal. Believe me, I know better than you’d think. No matter what though, it’s never worth it to kill yourself,” he assured her, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m glad you didn’t kill yourself, actually. I don’t know what your purpose is in life, but there must be a reason you’re still here. I mean, you didn’t take pleasure in what you did there in Zegnautus Keep, did you?”

“It was the absolute worst,” Chandra sobbed. “I can’t even describe the things I saw there. I still have nightmares to this day. You don’t understand just how horrid Niflheim can be.”

“I believe you. I don’t know exactly how I managed to escape my fate, but I was supposed to become an MT,” Prompto quietly admitted.

Chandra pulled out of the embrace and held onto Prompto’s tattooed wrist. “I recognize your barcode. You’re right; you were born to be an MT. I’m glad you got out. Maybe there were more of you who didn’t have to go through that.” She smiled slightly, though the sentiment didn’t reach her eyes. “I’m sorry I lied to all of you. I was afraid of you hating me. I really like you all, even Gladio, and if this doesn’t change anything, I would like to continue on with you, if that’s okay.”

Prompto smiled. “Of course it’s okay. We’d love for you to stick with us. I’m sorry I lost my cool with you. I’m still coming to terms with what I am. I literally just escaped torture at Zegnautus Keep, so you can see why the subject is a little painful for me.”

Chandra hurt for him, but didn’t want to press him into talking about it. “I’m so sorry, Prompto. Believe me, I never wanted any of this to happen to anybody. I’ve done monstrous things that I’m not proud of, but I want to spend the rest of my life making it up to the rest of humanity. Niflheim does not own me anymore. I don’t want to be the reason for other’s nightmares.”

Prompto patted Chandra’s back and started to bid her goodbye so she could clean up and pack, but he couldn’t help himself from asking what had been on his mind the whole trip. “Changing the subject, can I ask you something?”

“What?” she sniffled.

“Why are you so drawn to Ignis? I can’t help but notice that you stare at him a lot and you gravitate towards him. Do you have a crush on him or something?”

That was not what she had expected him to ask. She briefly considered lying by omission, but she decided that Prompto deserved nothing but the truth from her from then on.

“Can you keep a secret?” she whispered.

He chuckled. “I’ve keep secrets from even my best friends my whole life up until now. Pretty sure I can take yours to the grave if I have to.”

Chandra grinned. “I just had to make sure.”

“So, what, you like him?”

“Well, it’s more complicated than that…” She went on to explain the dream to him. He stood wide-eyed, staring off beside her as she spoke. When she got to the part about the blast, his gaze shifted over to her eyes.

“So that’s how Iggy lost his sight!”

“Well, I’m not sure, entirely. I didn’t actually see him after I turned to run away too. We’re making assumptions here. Besides, I wasn’t actually there, was I? I mean, he said he didn’t recognize my voice. It couldn’t have been real.” She tried to reason.

“I dunno. It seems like you were there. How else would you have known him? Gladio did find him in the area you described. Maybe you weren’t physically there. Maybe it was just your…spirit or something? Yeah, you were able to like, project yourself to him.” Prompto suggested.

“And here I thought I sounded crazy,” Chandra grinned. “You’re trying to justify this! It’s absurd! I don’t know how or why I am involved with him, but I am. I’m drawn to him like a moth to flame and I can’t explain it. I guess you could say I am developing a crush on him, I suppose.”

Prompto debated on whether or not to tell her about finding her. He decided it could do no harm at this point. “Wanna know how we really found you in the snow?”

“How?” she raised an eyebrow at him.

He went on to explain how Ignis suddenly made them stop and how he miraculously navigated through the storm to find her and have them dig her out and drag her back to the train. She sat there in awe.

“So he feels drawn to me too?” she timidly asked.

“Yeah, I guess so. Now I don’t know if he has a crush on you exactly. I hadn’t asked. But I can if you want me to?” Prompto smirked.

“No! Don’t! Besides, didn’t you say he doesn’t remember Altissia? Maybe I really did just coincidentally dream about the event. It would be one thing if he recalled seeing me, but he doesn’t remember anything about his accident. How about we just not tell him about any of this, hmm? It can be our secret. We can just go on and act like nothing happened.”

“Well, we don’t have to tell him anything yet, but I still feel like there’s something big going on between the two of you. I feel like if you want to get close to him, you will have to tell him these things. You can’t keep secrets like that from someone you love.” Prompto explained.

“I never said I loved him!” Chandra blushed. “I just…I don’t know. I’m still trying to figure out what’s going on here, okay?”

“Fine. I just wonder what the Astrals have in store for the two of you next,” Prompto mused. “Now hurry up and get ready. We have quite the trip ahead of us!” With that, Prompto marched out the door.

The Astrals? What? Chandra was lost in thought when the story of the red string of fate hit her.  Was Prompto hinting that maybe Ignis was tied to her like a soulmate?

[faierius]

Pyrexia Chapter Nine

Gladio glared at Noctis and Prompto, who slept peacefully on the other bed. They cuddled together under the comforter, content and happy in each other's company. Gladio felt a little jealous. That was supposed to be him and Ignis.

Staying awake all night, worrying, fussing, trying to keep the man comfortable, wasn't exactly how he pictured the first full day of his relationship with Ignis going. He wasn't complaining about it, though. He had no problem taking care of the other man. Ignis didn't let people worry about him if he could help it. Gladio would never admit it out loud, but it was kind of nice for a change.

He sighed heavily and squeezed Ignis, only to receive an annoyed grunt in response. Eyes shooting wide, he leaned back and looked at Ignis' scowl.

“You seem intent on crushing me to death,” the man mumbled sleepily, his voice hoarse.

“Ignis!” A surprised laugh hissed from his throat and he kissed the man's forehead. “Oh, thank the Gods you're awake! I was freaking out all damn day because of you.”

Ignis tried to laugh, but it came out as a dry, raspy cough.

“Hey, take it easy, babe.”

Ignis' muscles screamed in protest as he maneuvered his elbows under him to sit up. “I've been confined to bed all day, how much easier do you expect me to take it?” he complained, but didn't protest Gladio's assistance.

“What? How do you know that? You were unconscious all day.”

Reaching for a glass of water on the bedside table, Ignis raised a brow. “You aren't as observant as I gave you credit for, in that case.”

“Well, if you were awake, why didn't you say anything?”

“And interrupt your speeches?”

Gladio's cheeks took on a pink tinge and he flared his nostrils. “I'm being serious, Iggy.”

Ignis stifled another cough. “The handful of times I did wake, I barely had my faculties about me. It was easier just to go back to sleep. My body needed it, obviously.”

“So then it was just a regular fever?” Gladio asked, putting the back of his hand to Ignis' forehead. He felt much cooler.

“As much as I hate to admit it, it would seem I caught a cold. A rather nasty one, at that.” He put the water back and faced Gladio. The man wore an odd expression, only partially identifiable as confusion. “Gladio?”

“I feel like an idiot,” he grumbled, leaning forward and putting his head against Ignis' shoulder. “Noct made me think you had some magic, stress induced fever. Because of that, I didn't do any of the things I shoulda done. You probably suffered a lot longer than you needed to because I believed him.”

Putting his hand on Gladio's head, Ignis turned his face to kiss his hair. “Don't blame him for thinking that. Though I never spoke to him directly about what happened, I was told he was so scared he refused to leave my side during that time. You know how hard it is for him to properly express his emotions.”

“So that actually happened? He wasn't just making shit up to make me feel guilty?”

“If it hadn't, I may not have my magic today.”

Sitting up, Gladio huffed out a sigh. “Wait, I'm a little lost here.”

“Oh?” coughed Ignis.

“This afternoon, I kissed you and my lips tingled. Then my hand did when I touched your face. It was a lot like what Noct said happened to him. If that wasn't magic, what was it?”

Ignis smiled softly. “I once read a fairy tale as a child that described such a phenomenon. When two people are fated to one another, their energy forms a connection. It would seem we are meant to be together.”

Gladio's heart raced, each beat hard against his ribs. “I never took you for a romantic, Iggy.”

Any snappy come back the man may have had was cut off by another round of dry coughing. On the other side of the room, Prompto groaned and rolled onto his back.

“We can finish talking about this in the morning,” Gladio said, rubbing his hand over Ignis' back.

Ignis shook his head. “If it's all the same to you, I'd like to talk more now. I've had enough sleep and fever nightmares,” he grumbled.

“You're still sick. You should rest.”

“Having a conversation will hardly kill me, Gladio. But first, if you could assist me in getting to the toilet, I'd greatly appreciate it. I'm still a bit dizzy.”

“Uh, yeah. Sure.” Getting off the bed, Gladio went to the other side and took Ignis;' hands. He pulled him to his feet, catching him when he stumbled.

“It would seem my legs don't feel like cooperating.”

“That's what happens when you don't use them for more than a day,” replied Gladio, waiting for Ignis to adjust. He moved to stand beside him, hooking an arm around his waist. They slowly crossed the room to the bathroom, Ignis leaning heavily on Gladio.

“Need any help?” Gladio asked when he pushed open the door.

“I may be unsteady on my feet, but I can still urinate on my own.”

Smirking, Gladio shook his head. “I'll wait here, then.” Leaning against the wall, he scrubbed a hand through his hair. A cold, eh? That made way more sense. He was stupid to think magic had anything to do with this. But he was still curious about the tingling. Fate seemed even less likely than an exchange of energy. Shaking his head, he sighed and continued to wait.

***

Flushing the toilet, Ignis moved to the sink and turned the water on. Leaning heavily on the porcelain, he stared at his reflection in the mirror and scowled. Even without his glasses, he could see how horrid he looked. His hair was flat and lifeless, save where dried sweat made it curl at his temples. His skin had an oily sheen, and the clothes he wore were rumpled. The fullness in his head made him woozy, he felt shaky and unbalanced, and his throat was hot and scratchy.

Ignis washed his hands and splashed water on his face. It certainly wouldn't replace a much-needed bath, but it would work for now. Returning his gaze to his dripping reflection, Ignis sighed, bringing his fingers up to his lips. He wondered if Gladio's experience had anything to do with his nightmare. Just recalling the dream set his heart hammering in his chest. He didn't know many times he relived the same scenario in his mind, but it destroyed him each time. It had taken so much willpower not to latch onto Gladio as soon as he woke up.

Each time in his dream, he found himself at the center of an unwinnable battle. He was the only thing standing between his companions and death, and every time he failed to save them. First, Prompto. Then Noctis. The Gladio. The pattern repeated, and he always tried to pour every particle of his curative magic into them. Sometimes he had an endless source of energy, other times he would deplete his magic quickly. It was never enough, and they would always die. Each time, more and more of his soul would be eaten away. He felt like his will to live was being stripped.

Ignis swiped his hand across his eyes and took a deep breath. He felt weak, not at all like himself. He didn't care for it, and hoped it was just his illness messing with his mind. The boys were safe. Gladio was safe. His heart was a traitor for letting these emotions hit him so hard and fast.

A quiet knock sounded on the door and Ignis quickly dried his face. He opened the door to a concerned Gladio.

“Everything okay?”

A pleasant flutter in Ignis' stomach stopped him from answering. Instead, he nodded. He let Gladio help him back to bed, though he hated having to accept help to complete a task as simple as walking. Sick or no, he was more self-sufficient than this.

“Stop being stubborn and let me take care of you,” Gladio grumbled, leaning across Ignis to retrieve the empty water glass from the table.

Ignis huffed. “I can refill my own glass,” he replied, trying to swat his hand away.

“You're weak as a kitten right now. You'd just drop the jug,” Gladio replied.

Sighing indignantly, Ignis leaned back against his pillow and waited for his water. He couldn't be mad long, however. Not with that expression on Gladio's face. Sighing again, he accepted the glass and glanced at their still-sleeping companions.

“I'm...uh, sorry.”

Ignis quirked a brow. “For?”

“I dunno...everything? Forcing my feelings on you when you weren't 100%, mostly.”

Closing his eyes, Ignis took a sip from his glass and set it on the bedside table. “I'm hardly cognizant enough to lecture you on how idiotic you sound.”

“Ouch.”

“Honestly, you needn't worry about such trivial things.”

“How can I not?”

Ignis pinned the man with a stare. “You're also intent on making me embarrass myself, it would seem.”

Gladio's brow twitched.

Keeping his voice low, Ignis told Gladio of his dreams. When he finished barring his soul, he glanced up at Gladio. The big, stoic man had one hand over his mouth, a dark blush coloring his cheeks.

“Shit,” he breathed, flopping onto his back and covering his face with his arm. “Godsdammit, Iggy. There's no way I'll ever be able to let you go.”

“Pardon?”

“Before I kissed you, I felt chilled and exhausted. When our lips touched, warmth washed over me. My exhaustion disappeared. Maybe you couldn't do anything for me in your dream, but you did something for me in real life,” Gladio mumbled.

“So it was magic energy, after all,” Ignis replied matter-of-factly. He swallowed against a tickle in his throat and twisted to lean across Gladio. “We must have quite a connection, then.”

A chuckle rumbled Gladio's throat. “Must be.” Reaching up, he cupped Ignis' cheeks. He stared into the man's tired green eyes for a heartbeat before closing the distance and kissing him gently.

“Don't blame me should you catch my cold,” Ignis told him, pecking Gladio's lips again after they parted. He relaxed his weight against the man's body and stroked the hair on his chin.

“Wouldn't dream of it. But honestly, it'd be worth it.” He ghosted his lips across Ignis' again.

Settling down, Ignis tucked his head under Gladio's chin and closed his eyes. “Now that my fever is gone, it'll be a fast recovery.”

“Just don't push it because you think you feel okay.”

Ignis scoffed against Gladio's chest. “Now who's the mother hen?”

“Yeah, yeah.”

Despite himself, Ignis yawned. As much as he wanted to stay awake and spend time with Gladio, he was still feeling drained. As he struggled to keep his eyes open, soft snoring filled his ears. The sound caught him off guard and made him chuckle.

“You stayed awake to fuss over me, didn't you?” Smirking, he gently patted the man's chest. “Suppose I'll sleep too, then.” With his fever gone and Gladio beneath him, he was sure his dreams would be nothing but pleasant this time.