#someone said it’s time to let noctis rest in peace

[oreana-galena]

I’m fucking screaming. FFXV is one of those crappy mobile game ads on Instagram.

I’M LOSING IT WATCHING NOCTIS AND LUNA MOVE AROUND LIKE BOTS!! 😂😂

[queen-yalo]

FFXV | Headcanons | S/O getting hurt during a battle

Request: Okay then 😌 May I request HCs of the chocobros (separated) with a S/O that gets really hurt in battle? Like, almost dead xD Ohhhh and for extra angsty points, they argued before the battle 👀🔥 Pfff I forgot, with a fluffy ending in the end, like you wanted 😅💕 [by @kirahhhh​​​]

A/N: This is the stuff I need!! ♥ Hope you enjoy!

Pairing(s): Gladiolus Amicitia x reader; Ignis Scientia x reader; Noctis Lucis Caelum x reader; Prompto Argentum x reader

+++

• Gladio could be an ass sometimes, no doubt about that. You always knew he was protective and slightly on the jealous side... but sometimes it just got ridiculous and constricting. You couldn’t take this anymore. While you didn’t want to break up with him, something needed to change. So, you tried talking to him about it. Of course he would dodge all your attempts to talk this out with him. He would never admit that he was jealous. Or that this jealousy was just so intense because he was SO afraid to lose you. He felt so stupid for being insecure like that. But he couldn’t help it.  

• So naturally, you two ended up fighting. And fighting with Gladio was never pretty. You two would yell and scream at each other, throwing around insults and finally going over to ignoring each other. It was always a hell of a mess until you two would sit down and actually talk it out, which would usually happen the next day. In the end you could never go long without each other. 

• Until that one day where stuff went down before you two could make up. What was supposed to be a normal hunt, nothing extraordinary, ended up being a fight for life and death. Who could have known that a damn Behemoth would lurk in the forests? Gladio could punch himself for not checking beforehand. At least all of you got out of the fight alive. More or less as he had to admit when he saw the huge gash along your side where the Behemoth got you with his horns. 

• Gladio hated himself. Why did he say all those awful things to you? How could he ever let that happen? Why didn’t he protect you? You deserved so much better than him. What if those words were the last thing he ever said to you? What if he couldn’t apologize and make things right? Could he live with that kind of guilt for the rest of his life?

• He stayed at your side until you finally woke up. He was a mess. He actually tried to break up with you. Gladio was ready to let you go - to protect you. From himself and this lifestyle. But you wouldn’t let him. It took some time but in the end you convinced him that this is what you wanted. All you were asking for was a little more reason and communication when things didn’t go well between the two of you. Gladio was more than ready to work on that. You both were. It goes without saying that you both never had a fight like that anymore. 

• Ignis spent a lot of time at the Citadel. It was frustrating sometimes. You always seemed to be on second place. Of course you knew that his jobwas important. But sometimes... just sometimes you wished you would feel equally important for him. It was almost impossible to really fight with Ignis. He could stay incredibly calm, even in the most stressful situations. Arguments or fights were no exceptions. But even Ignis had his limits. And when he felt like he was about to snap he “officially” ended the discussion and would simply ignore you if you tried to bring that topic up again. 

• But there was one time where Specs just... exploded. Not in public of course, but once you two were in the private of your own home. You went out with a friend of yours. A male friend to be precise. On a night that was usually reserved for you and Ignis - but he was working. Naturally you didn’t see a problem with spending that now free time however you wanted. If Ignis could turn you down for work, you could go out with someone else, right? It’s not like this was a date or something. Just two friends having coffee. 

• But Ignis was livid. You had never seen him like this before. He was yelling and swearing... and at one point you just walked out. You wouldn’t let him talk to you like that, nor would you get down on his level and talk back like that. How dare he? Treating you like property, pushing you away all the time only to act like he owns you when things don’t go his way? 

• When you left, Ignis finally cooled down. This wasn’t fair. It wasn’t and he knew it. He knew he was acting irrational. But he couldn’t help it. He had been botteling up his emotions for too long. He wanted to spend time with you. He hated disappointing you by cancelling yet another date. He hated it. But alas - what could he do? He had a duty to fulfill. But then again... he didn’t want to let you down. He was scared to lose you, which is why he snapped when he saw you with your friend. He couldn’t stand the thought of being without you. The thought of you finding comfort in another man’s arms. No. He needed to talk to you. Now. 

• Unfortunately... he was too late. You got involved in a fight just around the corner and were badly injured. Someone tried to rob a bank. Yes, you were able to stop the robber... but at what cost? Ignis was heartbroken when he stood next to your bed at the hospital, watching your unmoving form, being kept alive by those various tubes and machines. It was horrible. Would you ever wake up again? The doctors were unsure. Ignis knew you were strong... but... well maybe that was his punishment for being a disappointment. 

• He was so relieved when your eyes fluttered open after countless, excruciating days. He half expected that you would tell him to leave as your eyes landed on him. But to his surprise you smiled at him. Weakly... but it was there. Ignis knew as well as you did, that this was neither the time nor the place to talk about what happened between you two. For now you were both glad you had each other again. Life wasn’t finish with both your stories yet. 

• “Princes will be Princes.” Prompto once said. And when it came to this... there was no Prince like Noctis. He was a spoilt brat. And sometimes he acted like one too. And sometimes... that was driving you crazy. He could have the worst attitude if something happened that he didn’t like. It was ridiculous. Frustrating. Nerve-wrecking even. It was like he turned into a pouty 4-year-old. You couldn’t talk to him properly, let alone reason with him. All you could do was to accept his pouting and wait for it to go away... or do what he wants to make him happy again. 

• You were so sick of it. Sick of that man-child always getting his way. Sick of always having to act like you were okay with his tantrums. And one night, you had enough. You snapped. Yelled at him. Called him out on his ridiculous behavior. And what did he do? He yelled back. It wasn’t pretty. You had never seen him like that. Did you go too far? No, it was about time somebody did something about his antics. Maybe snapping at him wasn’t the right way to behave. But him telling you that he didn’t need you and that you were annoying anyway, was definitely worse. 

• You two had your occasional quarrels, but it never escalated into a fully blown fight like this. Neither of you knew how to deal with that, so you both did what you thought was best: Ignored each other until the other one would cave. Who would have thought, that a Granhorn would run you over before you two could sort things out? 

• Yes, your head wasn’t fully in the game when the five of you went hunting - understandably. And the fact, that this Grandhorn was hidden, until the very moment it came out of the bushes and trampled you, didn’t make it any better. You instinctively curled in on yourself and wrapped your arms around your head, but you still took quite a bad beating. Bones were breaking, skin was tearing, and you felt all of it. 

• Noctis panicked. This wasn’t supposed to happen. You weren’t supposed to get injured like this? How dare you? He yells at Ignis to do something, to fix you. He can’t stand the slight whimper that escapes your throat, it tears his heart apart. You shouldn’t suffer. Not mentally, not physically. And now you were suffering in both ways - just because of him and his incompetence to deal with his life. He wanted to slap himself. It was all his fault. 

• Noctis refuses to leave your side once Ignis patched you up and tucked you into your sleeping bag at the camp. Night had already fallen, so driving back to Insomnia was much too dangerous. The men just hoped that you didn’t have any internal injuries and that you would make it through the night. Noctis felt helpless as he watched your unconscious form, your chest barely rising and falling. His hand stroked your hair gently as he made the decision to never let it come to a point like this anymore. He didn’t want to fight with you. He didn’t want you to hate him. He was determined to fix things as soon as you woke up. Until then, he would just sit there next to you and read you some of your favorite stories. That was the one thing he could do for you right now. After all, you loved listening to his voice. 

• Fighting with Prompto was almost impossible. Almost. After all, he was a very soft individual and needed harmony at all costs - which is the reason he never talks back, even if he’s being pushed around. He never speaks up and he does everything to make everyone happy... without looking out for himself. Yes, it was great that he always wanted to maintain the peace and harmony within the group - but at what cost? 

• You were trying to help him with his insecurities, supporting him whenever possible, teaching him to stand up for himself and his opinions. But when it came to it, Prompto always caved and took the easy way out of a confrontation by backing down. This happened one too many times now.

• Yes, you were angry. Yes, you yelled at him. Yes, you were a tiny bit unfair to him. And yes, it was unexpected that Prompto found his voice right in that moment. Of course you were glad, that he finally stood up for himself... you just wished it wouldn’t have been like this. It was ugly. You were screaming at each other, throwing around harsh words and nasty insults - neither of you deserved that. 

• Prompto felt incredibly bad when you slammed the door shut as you left. He had such a bad conscience about lashing out at you like that. It wasn’t like him. What had gotten into him? Was it because it was a generally stressful time currently? Or was it because you were constantly trying to change him? He had to talk to you about that. He knew that you weren’t actually trying to change him, you wanted to help him. But maybe... just maybe it was a little too much. He needed to make things right with you. Now. 

• He sprinted after you - but it was too late. The only thing he found was your unconscious, bleeding form in the middle of the street. Prompto was freaking out. What was he supposed to do? Get you to safety. Get you to a doctor. Find whoever did this. Thoughts were racing through his head. He tried to sort them, tried to find the right thing to do. But... he only came around when someone was calling for help and tending to your wounds. 

• It had been the worst couple days of his life, until the doctors finally said that you would be alright. It was close. Too close. But you would make it. You would come back to him. Until then, he would sit right next to you and read your favorite stories to you and tell you about his day, how he finally managed to assert himself in a certain matter. He could have sworn that the corners of your lips twitched slightly when he told you that. Even when being in a state like this, you were still showing Prompto, that you were there for him. You truly were the best thing that ever happened to him. 

[echoes-of-the-clockwork]

Book One: Gold (Prompto x Reader) Chapter I

A/n: This series is inspired by my oneshots, "Mythological Mayhem," (Can be found on my Wattpad) which is also why it will have the same name. You won't be able to choose your eye color in this series since they'll correspond with what gem/mineral each book represents. I hope you all enjoy! Love you all!!! •••••••••••••••••••••

"You can't keep me hidden forever, Prompto."

(Y/n)'s words rang inside Prompto's head as he stared up at the dark ceiling of the caravan. It had been only two days since he, Noctis, Gladio, and Ignis left Insomnia to head to Altissia for the prince's marriage to the Oracle. They were currently resting in Hammerhead, waiting for the Regalia to be repaired so they could head to Galdin Quay.

Lifting his arm, Prompto stared at the bracelet located on his right wrist. In the center stood a lone golden fragment that resembled a gemstone. Even in the darkness, a faint light radiated from it. With his left hand, he traced his index finger over the golden fragment as he continued to listen to (Y/n)'s words on repeat.

He couldn't sleep, wishing to see the girl he had come to cherish so deeply after the many years they'd spent together. The (h/c)-haired guardian has been with him ever since he could recall his earliest memories of his life. He could feel his strong, unwavering bond with (Y/n) and couldn't help but smile.

Prompto, to (Y/n)'s dismay, had kept her a secret their entire lives. No one except for him knew of her existence, not even his adoptive family or Noctis. Although she was residing in the gemstone whenever he left to go anywhere with his friends, he was saddened because she wasn't physically with him. He couldn't bear to be apart from her, not even for a simple stroll.

These past two days have been torture since he didn't wish to reveal the guardian to his companions. It wasn't because he didn't trust them, but he didn't want to be bombarded by tons of questions he wouldn't have the answers to or for (Y/n) to feel like an outcast.

A few minutes passed and Prompto debated whether to leave the caravan for a little while to see (Y/n). Unfortunately, he didn't realize what time it was until he saw Ignis was gone. The advisor was always the first to wake, his ebony coffee being the main reason why he was able to rise at such early hours of the morning and trudge through the day with no signs of exhaustion. He truly desires to have the stamina Ignis possessed after drinking a single cup of coffee.

Prompto lowered his arm with a sigh, nestling his head back into the pillow. He closed his eyes and tried to get a few more minutes of sleep, but his bustling mind kept him from finding peace.

With a groan, he dragged his body out of bed and grabbed his camera. He left the caravan and greeted Ignis before making up an excuse so he could get some alone time with (Y/n) without him or the others seeing her. He told the tactician how he wanted to take a few pictures of the rising sun and quickly excused himself to find a secluded location.

The moment Ignis turned his back, Prompto made a mad dash toward the garage. He headed around the side and took cover behind the garage. Looking around, the blonde made sure the coast was clear before summoning (Y/n). He whispered her name, the gold gemstone located on his bracelet pulsating with a warm glow.

Once the gemstone's radiance disappeared, a girl with (h/c) locks and gold-slitted eyes appeared in front of him. She combed a few stray locks out of her face and behind her ear with a sigh. "You know this would be easier if the others knew about me, Prom. I could also help you guys fight. And that gemstone is rather uncomfortable..."

"The guys would freak out if they saw your, y'know...real form!" Prompto argued. "I mean, I haven't even seen it yet! I've only read about the possibilities..."

(Y/n) sighed, crossing her arms. "If you're afraid of them attacking me, explain to them what I am! I'm sure they know about spirits. All humans should! We're not fictional characters in a fairytale. There's actual texts that explain who and what we are. If we continue to hide this from them, our time apart will only grow until after we return to Insomnia." She turned her back to him and stared up at the vast, colorful sky. The sun was rising and the sky was being painted with an array of shades of orange, red, and yellow. "After all the years we've spent together, I guess you've finally grown tired of me. I'm not surprised, really. To be honest, I'm not the easiest person to live with and I sometimes can be really annoying. I mean, you've-"

Two arms wrapped around her body, silencing her. She tensed up slightly when feeling her back flush against his body. A small gasp slipped from her lips when she felt Prompto nuzzle his face into the crook of her neck. His warm breath grazed her skin, causing her body to shudder. His blonde locks tickled the side of her face as his arms tightened around her. In her left ear, she heard him whisper, "I'm not tired of you, (Y/n). I could never get tired of you. You've been with me since the beginning and...and I can't believe you haven't left yet. I never thought someone like you would still wanna hang around a loser like me even now..."

(Y/n) pried his arms off her and turned around to face him. Cupping his cheeks in her palms, she stared into his cerulean eyes. "Even if I wasn't your guardian, I know we were destined to find one another. If I was human, maybe we could...never mind."

"Tell me," Prompto begged, gazing into her glistening golden eyes.

She shook her head with another sigh. "Sorry, it's nothing. I'm letting my imagination run wild again."

All of a sudden, she heard footsteps and acted quickly. Her body vanished, returning to the gemstone in Prompto's bracelet. The blonde also heard the footsteps and promptly picked up his camera, acting like he was taking pictures of the surrounding area.

Ignis walked around the corner, his emerald eyes analyzing the photographer. "Is everything all right, Prompto?"

"Uh, y-yeah!" The marksman's voice cracked, afraid his friend had overheard his conversation with (Y/n). "Just takin' some pics of the scenery!"

The strategist's eyes ventured over to the camera in the younger boy's grasp. "You are mindful of the lens cap, are you not?"

Prompto looked down at his camera and chuckled nervously as he removed the lens cap. "I-I knew it was on..."

"Of course," Ignis replied. The advisor detected the blonde's strange behavior and was able to see through his lie with ease. However, he simply spun on his heels and left his companion without questioning him.

The shutterbug sighed in relief when Ignis left. "That was too close..."

"I'll say," (Y/n) said as she reappeared beside him. "You're a terrible liar. Always have been."

"H-Hey, I tried my best."

"I know, but..." The golden-eyed girl looked around at the desert-like landscape. "You realize this isn't a scenic view, right? It's nothing but dirt, rocks, and a few plants scattered about. I'm pretty sure I saw a tumbleweed earlier, too."

"As an avid photographer, it's my job to capture everything," Prompto replied. "Even the ugly parts."

(Y/n) glanced at the boy from the corner of her eye. "A photographer captures the beauty in everything. Even the ugliest parts of this world have beauty hidden somewhere. I'm sure you can turn this desolate landscape into something beautiful. Just make sure you get some breakfast before becoming lost in your photography. Your stomach's growling."

Prompto, having been distracted, finally felt and heard his stomach grumble. A rosy hue dusted across his face, embarrassed at how obnoxious his stomach sounded. "I'll grab a bite at Takka's. What about you?"

"What about me?" (Y/n) replied with her own question.

"You haven't eaten since we left the city. You should come with me! If the guys see us, we can just pretend we're strangers who decided to share a meal together."

She smiled reassuringly at him. "I'll be fine, Prom. I can go a couple more days without eating." She bumped her hip against his, nudging him forward. "Now go get something to eat."

Prompto knew how stubborn the girl was. He didn't stand a chance against her and hung his head with a sigh. "Okay..."

<-----------<<<<<

A couple days later, the royal retinue arrived at Longwythe Rest Area after the Regalia was repaired. They delivered a package as per requested by Cindy and received a visit from Umbra. Seeing as the day was turning to night, the boys headed over to the Crow's Nest Diner to enjoy a quick dinner before checking in at the motel across the street.

Around ten o'clock, Prompto realized the others were all asleep and quietly made his way out of the room. With the spare gil he received from Ignis after their successful hunt yesterday, he headed back over to the Crow's Nest and stood outside the entrance. He summoned (Y/n), who appeared in front of him in mere seconds.

Turning her head, the spirit hummed in curiosity as she peered over her shoulder at the small diner. "The Crow's Nest? What're we doing here?"

"You're hungry, right?" Prompto asked. "It's been four days since you've ate anything so I thought this would be the perfect opportunity for you to get a bite to eat. With the guys asleep, it'll also give us some alone time."

"All right, but it's getting late. As much as I would love chatting with you for hours upon end, you'll need to get some sleep. Once I'm done eating, you're heading straight to bed."

"Deal."

Prompto and (Y/n) entered the diner, taking a seat at one of the booths. The man behind the counter walked over and took their order. The blonde asked for a simple glass of water while the girl ordered the salmon with a soda. As they waited for their order, the two chatted nonstop.

A few minutes ticked by and their order arrived. (Y/n) enjoyed every bite of her salmon, listening to Prompto as he shared what she had missed during her time slumbering in the gemstone. She clung to every word even after finishing her meal.

By the time midnight rolled around, the (h/c)-haired girl's eyes widen in shock. "I lost track of time!" She scurried out of the booth after Prompto paid. "You need to get some sleep. We'll be heading to Galdin Quay tomorrow and I wouldn't want to be the reason why you lost sleep."

"I know," Prompto sighed dejectedly. "I just...really wanted to spend some time with you."

She smiled at him. "Prom, we've been by each other's side for a very long time. Besides, I'm not going anywhere. Now go back to bed so you have enough energy for tomorrow. I'm really excited for Galdin Quay! I've always wanted to visit the ocean. I'd love to relax on the beach."

"Me too!" Prompto chanted excitedly. "I can't wait to take so many pictures!"

"All the more reason you should get some rest," she remarks.

He nodded. "Yeah. 'Night, (Y/n)."

Her smile blossomed. "Goodnight, Prom." Her body vanished, returning to the golden gemstone.

Prompto rushes back to the room and crawls into bed. He closed his eyes, delving into the world of dreams.

Almost two hours later, Prompto was startled awake by a nightmare. A cold sweat consumed his body as he flew up into a sitting position. Trailing his hand across his forehead, he wiped off the small sweat droplets before climbing out of bed and slipping his boots on. Leaving the room, he headed up to the roof to clear his head.

On the rooftop, Prompto sat down and let the cool breeze dry his body, calm his racing heart, and clear his head. He stared across the street, noticing the Crow's Nest was still open. He watched as a couple of hunters pulled into Longwythe Rest Area in a truck and parked just outside the diner. Once they entered the eatery, the blonde looked away with a heavy sigh. With his attention no longer focused on anything, the images from the nightmare filled his mind.

"Bad dream?"

Prompto turned his head and saw (Y/n) standing a few feet away. "Yeah," he replied halfheartedly.

"What was it about?" She pried.

"Noct, Gladio, Iggy, and I were facing off against a horde of daemons. I kept getting in the way and then...they abandoned me." The boy stared down at his hands as he clasped them tightly together. "Am I...worthless?"

(Y/n) clutched her hands behind her back as she focused her attention on the daemons prowling the darkness just beyond the rest area. "You're not worthless, Prom. Everyone is unique in different ways. You may not possess the strength of your friends, but you have your own special abilities that make up for their weaknesses." She hopped on to the ledge of the roof, walking down the narrow strip of concrete. "A team is like a puzzle. If one piece is missing, it's incomplete."

"H-Hey, be careful," Prompto muttered nervously as he felt his anxiety skyrocket just by watching her walk along the edge of the roof.

The guardian continued walking until she reached the end of the ledge. She stared down at the asphalt below. "You may think you're worthless, but in reality you aren't. You might not see it, but the others and I do. You've convinced yourself you are worthless and that's why you dream of such horrific scenarios." Turning around, she stared into his cerulean eyes with her golden ones. "No one is perfect. We all have our flaws. They may appear perfect in your eyes, but that's because your combined strength is able to hide them."

"But you're perfect," Prompto unconsciously said.

She smirked at him. "If I'm perfect, so are you. After all, I am a fragment of your soul."

The blonde's eyes widen at her words. Even though he's known the girl all his life, not once has he heard the real story about guardians. "What do you mean, (Y/n)?"

Hopping off the ledge, the (h/c)-haired girl walked over and sat beside him. She hung her legs off the roof, swinging them back and forth. "The fairytales about guardians are false. We're not almighty beings sent from the heavens by the Astrals to watch over the people of Eos. Guardians are spiritual beings manifested from a fragment of a person's soul. Our duty as a guardian is to protect the very soul that created us. Not everyone possesses the power to forge a guardian, though. Very few humans do, and you're one of them, Prompto. When a human does shape a guardian, we take the form of their choice. My appearance is a result of your cognition."

"So, the reason you look like this is...?"

"I've taken the form of your deepest desire. I must say," (Y/n) examined her appearance and grinned. "I look pretty good. At least you didn't make me look like a chocobo. I don't know what I'd do if I was a yellow bird."

Prompto's cheeks ignited a deep crimson and he immediately looked everywhere but at her. He couldn't remember a single time when his imagination created a strong, intelligent, beautiful person. He cleared his throat, eyes still darting around to avoid her gaze. "U-Um..." The boy's mind was blank as he tried to think of a response, but not even a single word came to mind.

(Y/n) realized this and smiled. "I know this is the first time we've really talked about spirits, but I hope I was able to explain it clearly. If not, we can always search for actual text. There are many documented existences of spirits and books that have been published."

Prompto found his voice and said, "I never really asked because, well...I kinda forgot you were a guardian."

"You treat me like a normal person," she stated. "Which I'm grateful for, even though I'm not human."

"You look like a normal girl to me," he answered honestly, finally being able to look at her.

"Yeah, well, your cognition thought of a normal girl."

"Does that mean if my deepest desire was a chocobo, you really would've been one?" He asked, eyes gleaming with excitement.

"No, I was just messing with you. A guardian's human form is based on their master's deepest desire, but it has to take the form of a human. All spirits have a human form and a true form. Alas, our master doesn't determine our true form."

"Y'know, I've never seen your true form," Prompto commented. "Is it scary?"

"Um, well..." (Y/n)'s voice trailed off. She watched the two hunters from earlier depart the Crow's Nest and drive away in their truck. "I...want to say no, but it might frighten you. But trust me, Prom, I would never hurt you or the others."

"I know," he smiled gently. "Now I'm really curious what your true form is! Is it a chocobo?"

The spirit giggled, nudging her elbow into his side. "Don't get too excited. And no, it's not. Guess you'll just have to wait."

The blonde released a dramatic groan as he hung his head. "Aw, man...!"

Next Chapter || Masterlist

[lov3nerdstuff]

Voluptas Noctis Aeternae {Part 5.8}

*Severus Snape x OC*

Summary: It is the year 1983 when the ordinary life of Robin Mitchell takes a drastic turn: she is accepted into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Despite the struggles of being a muggle-born in Slytherin, she soon discovers her passion for Potions, and even manages the impossible: gaining the favor of Severus Snape. Throughout the years, Robin finds that the not quite so ordinary Potions Professor goes from being a brooding stranger to being more than she had ever deemed possible. An ally, a mentor, a friend... and eventually, the person she loves the most. Through adventure, prophecies and the little struggles of daily life in a castle full of mysteries, Robin chooses a path for herself, an unlikely friendship blossoms into something more, and two people abandoned by the world can finally find a home.

General warnings: professor x student, blood, violence, trauma, neglectful families, bullying, cursing

Words: 5.3k

Read Part 1.1 here! All Parts can be found on the Masterlist!

______________________________

They came to stand in the middle of the bridge where the wind was whipping around them in icy streams relentlessly, clawing at Robin's skin and making her eyes water as she leaned on her forearms on the railing to look down into the black ravine beneath. It was scary out here indeed, even more so when the wooden construction swayed under the wind's rapid beating.

Robin looked up from the dark for a moment, and instead let her eyes lock with his as she motioned for him to come over to the edge as well. For a second he stayed frozen to the spot right in the middle of the path, safe between the railings, but then he moved to stand next to Robin as her gaze had undoubtedly commanded him to. A mere step away, he mirrored her stance and they looked down into the blackness together.

"Have you ever considered jumping?" Robin eventually asked without a hint of reluctance. He knew how weird her mind could be, at least to a point where the question shouldn't surprise him anymore. "I mean… do you ever hear that calling? From the bottom of the abyss?"

"All the time."

"The allure of the fall, and the promise that comes with it… It's quite tempting, is it not?"

"It shouldn't be. Not to you." His words touched Robin in a way she couldn't explain, and instinctively her eyes returned to the man next to her with the soaring of her heart.

"It shouldn't be to you either. But obviously we don't have that choice." She said, and for a moment observed with a strange fascination how the wind blew his hair around his face like raging black rivers on a bed of white.

"Most people couldn't handle a choice like that."

"To me, the temptation is so much more frightening than the height or the darkness." Robin sighed. "It's ironic… the scariest things are always just a product of one's own mind."

"I agree. Sometimes what we aren't afraid of what is, but of what could be. What we could do, and sometimes even what we want to do. The human mind is the most dangerous place of all."

"Exactly." Robin said with both a smile and a huff, but the grim look on his face dwindled her excitement in an instant. Maybe it was time for a subtle change of topic. "I haven't actually answered your question from before."

"I am aware."

"Would you still like to know?"

"Obviously."

"Alright…" Robin sighed under her breath, and focused on one single star in the nightsky as she considered her words. "I can truthfully tell you that I am happy with the work we do, and I'm happiest right where I am."

"Good."

"What about you?" She turned her head to look at Snape once more, directing the inquiry at him and not the night, but she would have been met by black eyes that seemed to look straight into her soul either way. "Are you happy?"

For a long moment he didn't reply at all. He merely held her gaze in a way that made him seem impossibly close to everything Robin tried to hide, while however he was still standing at the perfectly imperfect distance of one large step away. But like a piece of music, his silence created the distance that the unspoken words behind his eyes pulled her through in a chase of an everfleeting melody. Robin's heart was racing; a sharp contrast to her easy facade that became harder to keep up by the second.

"I am closer to happiness than I have been in a long time. Longer than I care to remember." He finally replied, and the statement was both positive and heartbreaking at once. Robin wanted him to be happy, truly. Not just close to it. But she realized that there likely was nothing she could do about that.

"Well, I'm sure you're gonna be even closer to it later, when you can finally get rid of that insufferable person who keeps dragging you out into the cold every new year's eve." She tried to joke instead, actually having to smile at her own sense of humor, thus also smiling at him.

"I doubt that." He replied though, and averted his eyes to peer back out into the distance. "It will rather be a momentary setback."

Robin's small smile widened inevitably, radiantly taking over her entire face, but she just couldn't help it. Hearing that her presence at least was preferable to him than being alone was enough to make her skin tingle, and her heart boast in her own happiness. Maybe if he thought like that, they really could be friends somehow. Maybe they already were.

"Quit smiling like a fool, you make me regret saying something nice." He grumbled a short moment later, still staring out into the dark, and Robin finally cracked. With her laughter, the entire tension fled into the open night as well, and it left her feeling finally at peace.

"Well, I'm not going to stop. And you better don't regret it either, because it actually made me happy." She grinned up at him in the utmost certainty that he wasn't even annoyed with her for real. "So just get over yourself, will you?"

As an answer he merely turned his head just enough to glare down at Robin, and she had to grin even more as she turned to look ahead now instead. The view really was spectacular, he hadn't promised too much last year. Even if the swaying of the bridge was fairly distracting, and the cold bit horribly into the exposed skin of her face and hands. But it was beautiful just like that, loud from the wind and silent from the night, cold from winter and warm from Snape's presence next to her.

It couldn't be long now. Minutes, or just seconds until the year would end. And once again they would greet the new year with comfortable, companionable silence. But this time there were no arches, no columns or masses of stone between them that would give either the illusion of solitude. This time, when a year ended and a new one started, when the sound of fireworks could barely be heard over the wind, they stood on the bridge together.

"Happy new year…" Robin finally spoke up, once the silence had surrendered to her will. "Or at least one that is a bit closer to happy, if that isn't entirely impossible."

"I stopped using the word impossible when I met you."

"Then I will be sure to challenge you another step closer to happiness." Robin smirked, and turned around to lean her back against the railing.

"Please don't." He sighed and rolled his eyes in the typical exaggerated manner as he stepped back from the railing as well, coming to stand in the middle of the path in front of Robin instead.

"I most definitely will." She smiled innocently but brightly, and while she had no idea how she could do that, she was absolutely determined that she would indeed.

"If you insist." He sighed and motioned for her to come along back to the castle. As they walked next to each other through the dark, he added, "You could always start by making me coffee when we are back in the dungeons."

Robin let out a snort, then chuckled to herself, and at last nodded with a sigh and a smile. "If that's what it takes, I'll gladly make you coffee for the rest of the year as well."

"Tonight should be quite enough."

"How gracious of you."

"Why, pray tell, do you have to sass me at any given opportunity?"

"Someone's got to do it." Robin shrugged with a smirk, as they crossed the courtyard where it was actually quite a bit warmer than it had been out on the bridge. Maybe they would better stay in here again next year… but perhaps without all the columns between them.

"You still are truly insufferable!" He grumbled, but his hand returned to the small of her back at almost the same time nonetheless.

"It's a new year, not a new reality. What did you expect?" She raised her eyebrows with a laugh, and gladly let herself be led towards the dungeons once more.

"Of you? Absolutely nothing less."

_______________

For Snape's birthday, Robin had actually come up with three little things that she'd hoped wouldn't make him as uncomfortable in a combination as just giving him one obvious gift straight up. For one, she had throughout the day done her utmost to keep people from bothering him. That had basically entailed sitting around in the hallway in front of his office all day and keeping everyone from entering unless they had a really good reason to. An issue that Robin couldn't take care of herself. Thus she did a good amount of his work, but without his knowledge of course. Only in the evening, when she had 'randomly' brought chocolate cake to have with the usual coffee, she had admitted that she'd seen to it that he had a quiet day. However she only had told him because he had actually been concerned about the absence of the usual idiots throughout the day, and she'd felt bad to be the reason for his concern.

The third and last thing she wanted to give to him now was an actual gift, and she had been looking forward to this part of the present the entire day. With a mischievous smile, she placed a small jar on the table in front of him, which held nothing but a single golden pearl inside. He stared at the object for a few seconds with that intensely burning gaze, then directed the very same at Robin.

"What is this?" His tone was unusually shallow, and at the same time his eyes spoke volumes to her, in an entirely different language.

"What does it look like?" Robin asked in return, calm to the core, for she had come somewhat prepared for a reaction like this. It was rather understandable, actually, if not even very much reasonable. "It's my gift to you."

"You cannot seriously expect me to accept this."

"Whyever not?"

"Do you have any idea how rare these pearls are?"

"Of course I do." She shrugged with a smile. "That's why I'm giving it to you in the first place. There would be fairly little use in me giving you something you already possess, and as far as I'm aware, you didn't have any Alteria pearls. Until now."

"If you could come by this, it cannot be authentic." He reasoned to himself with a frown, and at last picked up the small jar with a careful touch to inspect the object inside. "These cost more than I could ever afford, and I actually get paid fairly well. Occasionally."

"It is as real as they get, I can promise you that. But if you don't believe me, you can always check for yourself."

"How can you promise something like that?"

"Because I know where I got it." Robin sighed, but her smile stayed. Maybe he would stop doubting her if she told him how she had acquired it indeed, but that would also kind of take away her own fun in his incredulous expression.

"You cannot give this to me, Robin, no matter where you bought it. It isn't a gift, but a fortune."

"Value is such a stupid concept." She rolled her eyes at him and leaned back in her chair. "This pearl in itself means nothing to me, I could toss it out of the astronomy tower without a second thought and very likely get me another within a day. But it means a lot to you, obviously, and to me that is where it gets its only value. It's only valuable if you keep it, and if it means something to you."

"You have a strange concept of value yourself." He said, but he couldn't beat Robin's arguments. "If you truly want me to consider keeping it, tell me who sold it to you, and how you could convince them to do so."

"I will tell you anything you want to know, but after that you will keep it, as my gift to you, without remorse, yes?"

"We will have to see about the remorse, but if it means so much to you then yes, I will keep it." A pause. "...Just so you stop bugging me."

"Thank you!" Robin rolled her eyes in exaggeration at his late comply, before she sat up straight once more to start explaining with a sigh. "Alright… First of all, you should know that I agree with you of course. Alteria pearls are extremely expensive if you try to buy them, and I am not crazy or rich enough to do that. Or stupid enough, for that matter. It would truly be a waste of money."

"Consider me confused, then."

"It's not at all confusing, actually, it just seems that something very basic escaped your notice for once. Now, before you get all scolding with me, it isn't a mistake, but more of a… negligence of alternatives."

"And your point is?"

"My point is that everyone tries to find a place to buy the ingredients they need, whether that be plants or animals or something like Alteria pearls. People are always looking for the place to buy it cheapest, or to buy it at all. What everyone, including you, seems to forget however is that finding the ingredients by yourself isn't actually all that difficult if you know where to look. I mean sure, there is the school gardens and the greenhouse, or even Hagrid's creatures, but do you ever go out beyond that to find the ingredients you usually would buy?"

"No… As a matter of fact, I do not." He replied with a mild frown that made him seem almost surprised at the realization. Probably he really hadn't considered doing something like that before. Robin smiled at him in silence while he seemed to think it through.

"Obviously not all ingredients can be tracked down without a trip around the world, but you can come by a surprising amount if you put a little time and effort into it." She went on to explain. "What I mean to say is that I didn't buy the pearl. I merely tracked it down for you. Sometimes knowledge is more valuable than money."

"No matter what I believe to know about you, you always manage to surprise me." He finally mused, with the faintest of smiles, as he twisted the small jar with the pearl in his hand. "Thank you for this gift."

"You are most welcome."

"Will you tell me how you found an actual Alteria pearl without leaving the school grounds? I am curious to know." He inquired with a real smile for once, a small one, but it was most definitely there. Robin's heart melted into mushy tingles once again.

"It takes away the entire mystery, but oh well…" She sighed with a mirroring smile and leaned forward as she started to explain. "I bargained with the Merpeople. Legilimency is actually a pretty good form of communication, and while I'm by no means actually good at it, it sufficed to tell them what I wanted and what I could offer in return."

"How did you even get to that point?"

"Plain old research. I'm actually surprisingly good at that." She laughed and brushed a stray piece of hair behind her ear, only for it to immediately untug itself again. "I read that Alteria pearls grow in some weird kind of oyster. It's black and has blue hair on the shell… looks beyond creepy, if you ask me. I still have it somewhere if you would like to see it, but it's rather useless. The condition under which they grow are very similar to the conditions in the deep parts of the black lake, so I thought my chances were good. I figured that the fastest way to find one was to ask the folks who live there. I've had my share of experience in trading though and thus I looked up something that the Merpeople might actually be interested in in return for their assistance."

"And what did you offer them?"

"Music." Robin shrugged with a smile. "I shared a few memories of music I love, and what that music felt like to me. They love music, sirens and selkies and their whole kin."

"I never would have thought of that."

"Well, I never would've thought of cutting something up instead of squeezing it out, or of heating something up before adding it to a potion to keep the temperature steady; all those little things to make the recipe better." She replied with a smile. "Would be pretty dull if everyone was good at the same thing, wouldn't it?"

"It certainly would be less productive for our work." He mused, and then looked at his empty cup in front of him with a risen eyebrow. "More importantly, it would be a shame if my ability to make coffee was as mediocre as yours."

"Sneaky…" Robin chuckled, but already picked up their cups from the table. "But I'll play along and do you the favor to make you coffee to prove how 'mediocre' my skills really are."

"Do feel free to prove me wrong."

"Oh, I will for sure."

_______________

One of the most dreaded things in the fifth year at Hogwarts –besides the inevitable OWLs– was 'the talk', as generations of students had called the career advice meeting that took place around the end of April. It was obviously supposed to show the students possibilities for what they could strive for after school, and which N.E.W.T. classes they would need to take to have a chance at getting into their chosen career path. Mostly, the students dreaded this conversation, for it entailed talk about grades and the future. Two topics most people at 15 or 16 weren't all too fond of.

As Robin discovered, the professors weren't all too fond of the talk either. At least one certain potions professor seemed to be dreading it quite as much as his students, and he made no secret of that fact either. Not in front of Robin at least, and she appreciated his honesty as always, even if she could do fairly little but listen to his complaints about her classmates over coffee on the night before the endless row of conversations would take place. What she could do and did do, however, was to offer that he could skip out on her own career advice session that was planned for late noon and use the time for a break instead. They could always talk about it after dinner over coffee, after all.

To Robin's surprise he actually deemed the suggestion a good idea and took her up on the offer, which unfortunately meant that Robin had to attend classes for the entire day, while most of the other students could skip out on at least fifteen minutes of classtime themselves. It was a terribly slow day, and Robin was only glad once it was time for dinner. During the meal, the career advice talks were the number one topic of conversation in every house, even among the lower years who listened curiously, and the higher years who shared their own experiences from the years prior. Robin shrugged most of it off and tried to tell herself that it wasn't a big deal, but she honestly dreaded talking about her future like it was some predictable certainty, something she could actually look forward to.

As it turned out, Robin's 'talk' started just like any other conversation she and Snape had every single night anyway. She made them coffee, mainly because he was looking so annoyed with the entire world already that she took pity on him, and they sat in his office at the small table just like they always did these days.

"So tell me, do you have an idea for what you would like to do after school?" He inquired with a risen eyebrow, and took a sip of his too hot coffee, only to scowl at it a second later.

"Not really. I don't see the point in deciding on something now only to change my mind later. I'll find something when the time comes."

"I'm certain you will."

"Is that how this conversation is supposed to go?" Robin asked with a humored frown, and crossed her arms on the edge of the table as she leaned forward.

"No. But I see no point in telling you what to do, for you will ignore it anyway and do what you yourself deem best."

"Well, what if I don't know that's best?" Her frown lost a bit of the humor in it. "What if I end up homeless under some bridge because I'm not good enough for anything?"

"Are you asking me or yourself?"

"Nevermind." She grumbled and leaned back in her chair with a start. One brain cell less, and she would've started pouting. He had a point.

"Going by your grades, you indeed are more than good enough at everything you do."

"That doesn't count."

"No?" He quipped, eyebrows raised in feigned surprise, as he went to recite by memory. "Exceeds Expectations in Astronomy, History of Magic and Divination; Outstanding in Charms, Transfiguration, Herbology, Care of Magical Creatures and quite obviously Potions… That does not count for you?"

"You forgot the Acceptable in Defense Against the Dark Arts." Robin mumbled to herself and stared down at her hands in her lap. Yeah, after the incident with the petrification, Morgan had actually dropped her an entire grade without any good reason. That arse…

"That is hardly your fault and you know it as well as I do." Snape said in an almost scolding manner that obviously did nothing to cheer Robin up. "Is it really so hard for you to be proud of your other grades merely because one isn't perfect?"

"Obviously. But I don't expect you to understand that."

"I believe I do though. Professor Morgan's unfair treatment of you doesn't pass by me without an equal seeping rage."

"But that's not even the point!" Robin groaned under breath, then sighed. "Sorry. Of course I'm angry about Morgan's idiocracy."

"But?"

"But I'm also angry because I don't have perfect grades in every subject. It probably sounds pathetic to you, especially because it doesn't actually matter for anything. I know that the OWLs will make up most of the final grade."

"Then why does it matter so much to you?"

"Because…" She stopped, thought, but still didn't know how to convey what she was thinking. Feeling. "It doesn't matter why it matters."

"To me it does, if it upsets you." He said, and the statement had Robin's heart skip a beat once more. Great… he was getting too good at making her tell him things without actually demanding it of her. It was unfair, when he used kindness to disarm her, and left Robin entirely defenseless.

"If I'm not perfect, I'm not good enough." She sighed, but couldn't bring herself to look him in the eye. "I define myself over my grades and it's stupid and pathetic and still I do it. When I'm not perfect, I'm nothing."

"Do you actually believe that?"

"I don't believe it, I'm not stupid enough to want to think something like that. I just… feel it." She shrugged, and picked at the corner of the table with her fingernail. "I always have."

For a moment, it was quiet. Snape didn't say a single word, until Robin finally gave in and looked up to meet his eye. "I am surprised."

"By what?" She asked right back, surprised herself that he didn't straight out tell her how stupid that was indeed.

"You give yourself so confident, and yet you tell me that you think so little of yourself." A pause, a shared glance, a million things unspoken but one. "I had no idea that you were so ridden by self-doubt."

"Sorry to disappoint." Her voice was but a whisper, her tone cold as ice as her gaze dropped back down to the black liquid in her cup. After a moment, it blurred together with the rest of the table, and then the entire thing was washed away by tears at last.

"You are disappointing no one but yourself." Snape finally said. "And you are prone to keep doing so if you measure yourself by impossible standards."

"You were the one who told me to be better! What did you think would happen?!"

"I expected you to push yourself, yes!" He snapped back with an irritated expression. "But you cannot blame this on me. I never wanted you to be perfect."

"Good for you, because I only would have disappointed you in that as well."

"As well as in what?"

"I don't know! Everything?!" She huffed and rolled her eyes to herself. "I may be quite good at school, alright, but what else is there to be proud of?! I'm terrible at dealing with people, nobody in my grade even talks to me anymore, and I'm probably the worst Slytherin there ever was! I'm nothing like the other people in this house! The stupid hat probably made a mistake by putting me here in the first place."

"You are right. You are nothing of what the general public expects of people in Slytherin. They are supposed to be lazy and irresponsible, arrogant, ignorant and most of all, so very proud of their heritage that they dismiss every thought of being just as flawed as everyone else."

"Thank you for summarizing it so very eloquently." Robin huffed again, but the general unease she felt just wouldn't make way for brighter thoughts.

"That however does not mean that you do not belong in this house." He simply ignored her comment and went on with a pointed look at her instead. "You are intelligent, resourceful, ridiculously loyal to those you deem worthy of it, and determined to reach any and every goal you set for yourself. And if that loyalty, ambition and passion of yours aren't some of the core principles of Slytherin, I would be ashamed to be the head of a house that values those qualities less than egotism and pride."

"Maybe. It doesn't matter." Robin said, even though she didn't believe her own words. Everything he said mattered to her, and especially if it was something that made her heart soar like that. But her brain was stuck in a downward spiral that it would take more to escape from than this.

"Then what does matter? Can you tell me that?" He sighed and leaned back in his chair in what looked a whole lot like defeat. Was he truly giving up on her already?

"No." Robin whispered, and her eyes filled with tears again, simply because of how pathetically annoying she was being. "I'm sorry… maybe I should just go."

"Don't even think that I would let you leave like that." He was quick to reply, and Robin slumped back down in her chair before she'd even gotten the chance to get up.

"Because we haven't finished the talk yet?" She asked with a sigh, and went back to picking at the edge of the table.

"Because you clearly are upset, and I have every intention to change that before I let you leave." He said, and Robin actually had to smile a little at his words. However when he got up from his chair, her eyes followed him to the door with a frown. "I will be back in a moment. You should use the time to think about what it really is that troubles you so much. Then perhaps we can solve the issue when I return."

"Where are you going?"

"You will see." With that, he closed the door behind himself and left Robin alone in the office.

A few minutes later, or more like a good while later, he returned and Robin immediately had to smile. He had brought chocolate cake.

"Have you thought about what the real problem is?" Snape finally asked, as they were both chipping off pieces of the cake that he'd placed in the middle of the table between them.

"I'm probably just having a bad day. Somehow, everything makes me nervous and then I say something wrong and then I get angry with myself… And then there's the whole career advice thing on top."

"I believe the cake might be a start on the generally bad day, but you will have to elaborate on what concerns you about the career advice if I shall be of any help to you."

"Alright…" Robin sighed, then finally looked up from the intricately decorated cake fork in her hand. "The whole 'talking about the future' thing is giving me anxiety. I mean, I do have good grades now, but I'm just so scared of failing when it actually comes to something important. And talking about OWLs and N.E.W.T. classes and careers is important enough to panic over. I just try to spare myself the disappointment of making plans and then finding out that I'm not good enough for any of them."

"That is reasonable and yet ridiculous. You haven't ever failed any classes before, not even a single essay in my class, which is remarkable enough on its own… What makes you believe that you might fail now?"

"Nothing in particular. It might be general anxiety, or just my own pessimism. Everyone is scared to fail though, so maybe I'm just being dramatic. Maybe I care too much about being better than everyone else."

"It might surprise you, but not nearly everyone cares about their work and their future as much as you do. Not nearly everyone has the capacity to care so deeply about anything at all, actually."

"Are you saying that it's a good thing that I panic over possibly screwing up my future?"

"Not necessarily a good thing, but it certainly makes you who you are. People are shallow, and you are the very opposite. I for my part have always had quite a distaste for shallow people. So you might actually consider your ways a good thing, yes." He stated, and waited for her to look at him before he continued. "You have absolutely no reason to be concerned, Robin. Your grades would make anyone go green with envy and I have no doubt that your OWLs will look even better than your current record. If you do not believe your own success up to this point, then perhaps you can at least believe me. And I am absolutely certain that you will achieve anything you set your mind to."

Robin's lips curled into a smile, and she found that she had to believe him no matter what. She wanted to believe him. Maybe worrying too much was a disadvantage she would have to live with if it meant she was granted to have passion in return. And oh, she had so much to be passionate about. So much to care about. Maybe she should pick out some N.E.W.T. classes indeed.

"Perhaps we should start over." He said after a moment, and sat up straighter in his chair. "Do you have an idea what you would like to do after school?"

"I'm always open for suggestions." Robin smiled in return, and her heart did that silly thing again where it probably could be heard in the entire room. "All I know is that I want to do something with potions. And study ingredients."

"Why am I not even remotely surprised?"

______________________________

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[secret-engima]

So in your Naruto FF cover where Noct/Yoru is believed to be a god, what are the reactions of the families of the Chocobros? Cause their Clan member just got poached but they've also been really strange ever since their near death experience that woke up their memories (or did they always remember)? Especially the Hyuuga because they basically had Hikaru/Ignis enslaved and branded. Or even some povs from the Chocobros. (Poor Prompto, being an Aburame lol)

Ooooo tricky. Kinda depends on the family?

Lemme see- Ignis’s family are Most Displeased. They are super possessive of their eyeballs and treat their branch members as slaves anyway so they see it more like theft than a powerful man claiming a friend. Of course, there’s not much they can DO about it considering it’s Yoru and he burns Ignis’s seal off in .05 seconds and also threatens to burn the rest of the main branch to the ground if they touch Ignis again (not in so many words, but his magic does flatten a few of the members with its intensity when they got too close to Ignis.

Tbh that’s probably a blood grudge the Hyuga hold until Naruto’s time even though they stay in Konoha and Ignis is known among the hyuga not only as the blind member but the Stolen Hyuga. A warning to all hyuga of what will happen if they are not careful with their eyes and other such nonsense that only works because younger Hyuga don’t interact with Yoru enough to know that he’s a really chill dude and Ignis is happy where he is.

The Inuzuka are not too thrilled at first, but more laidback about it? Gladio still visits and they can tell that he’s Super Happy about being reunited with Yoru, and Yoru is polite and respectful to them and their dogs like him and you can never go wrong with the opinion of dogs in an Inuzuka’s eyes.

The Aburame ... are honestly the most chill about this? They aren’t too thrilled at first, but Yoru already has a Hyuga and an Inuzuka by then, so there is a precedent, and after a bit of watching it’s clear that these four are basically a Hive unto themselves and Prompto is happy to be there, is healthy and well cared for so they just kinda- shrug and move on. Maybe use the fact that one of their own is “Favored by Yoru” to their advantage during tricky Council meetings generations later.

The oddness and memories thing were long commented on, but ... mostly unnoticed in Hikaru’s case? Among the Branch Clan it was noted, but no one said anything or really thought about it because honestly I doubt the Hyuga have never had an Incident where Branch Members get a bit ... weird post Sealing and post a traumatic experience. That’s a chakra doohickey tattooed to your SKULL, side-effects are not impossible. The Inuzuka noticed it too, but Gladio was still ... himself, just a big more jaded and mature so they let it slide.

The Aburame maybe spent a good few years trying to figure out what the freak happened with Prompto though. Because they’ve never had a bug-a-phobic member before and it’s weird. They love him tho. He’s their disaster child.

Tbh in the Warring States Era nobody was really focused on mental health. If you were loyal to the Clan and could fight that was all that really mattered, weirdo personality changes aside.

Uhhh POVs but only short snips, and pls forgive any inconsistencies with previously establish AU lore my brain is tired and I may not keep all the details 100% straight. Just roll with it.:

Ignis:

After a lifetime of being blind, being able to SEE everything, all around, at any given time is unnerving. This entire era is unnerving and Hikaru has bitten his tongue more than once to keep from railing against it. Against sending CHILDREN, some not much older than toddlers out into the field, against the brand on his head and the heads of so many others that burns on the whim of a Main Branch member.

He keeps his head down, but inside ... he hates. More than a little bit. He is a fractured piece of glass and he knows too much pressure with make him snap, so he does his utmost to avoid those situations (because if he snaps children will get hurt even more than now and nothing will change in the Clan).

Then one day they go to meet Hashirama and Madara, to speak of peace, and of course Hikaru has heard of Yoru, the mysterious forest spirit that supposedly watches over the new village and ensures no fighting happens, but he does not actually think this Yoru will be all that impressive.

He never expects it to be NOCTIS. Noctis, who looks at him with hope and wonder in his eyes, who looks so very unchanged despite lifetimes, who rises and calls him brother and Ignis and friend and CLAIMS him in a way the Clan Head cannot dispute. No one can dispute against Noctis, because he is still a Lucis Caelum and a king and to him, their chakra is pebbles in an ocean.

And for the first time in a long time, Ignis is happy. Ignis has hope.

...

Gladio

Gladiolus loves his new family, and he knows they love him back. That doesn’t mean he doesn’t miss his old life like a wound in his side. Iris’s presence makes it a bit better but also not, because war is cruel and no one cares that she is still so young (older than the other Clans children sent to the field, because Inuzuka treasure their puppies, but still far too YOUNG to the mind of a Shield and Crownsguard). He loves his canine partner and the Pack, he loves that they don’t really question his memories, how his personality has matured and changed since the incident that woke him up.

Even so...

Even so, the absence of his brothers is a bleeding wound in his heart, and when the Clan Head looks at him, Gladio knows the man can see that in his heart of hearts, Gladio is not part of their Pack. He is family, but he has another Pack, another Alpha he swore to a lifetime ago, and that loyalty still howls in his soul far stronger than even the ties of blood and Pack and love that binds him to the Inuzuka.

So perhaps that is why the Clan Head does not look as outraged or surprised as he could have been when Yoru finds him, when NOCTIS looks back at Gladio from an eerily familiar yet not face. That is why, while the Hyuga sputter in shock when Gladio hugs Ignis tight and spins him in a circle for joy, the Inuzuka just watch with comprehension dawning in their eyes. Gladio looks to his Clan Head and says he’s going with Yoru and there is not request for permission. Just a courtesy of announcement. Because THIS- this is his Pack, his Alpha, his Beta, his brothers and littermates. He will follow them above all.

And the Clan Head lets him go.

...

Prompto:

Prompto wants to know who he ticked off in his past life that had a say in the next, because he HAD to have ticked off someone. Why else would he have been reborn into a clan of LIVING HIVE PEOPLE???????

He thinks he distresses them- no, he knows he does, when he flinches from the clan techniques and hives, from the little insects and their pheromones that the Clan uses as essentially an insectoid, chakra-based texting system amongst themselves. He knows he stresses out his hive for a long time, flinching from the feel of them inside him, from the skitter of their legs and wings and the whisper of their tiny, simple little thoughts in his own when they talk to him.

It .... it’s bad for a while. A WHILE. Bad enough the Clan won’t let him fight (which is fine with him) but also bad enough he loses weight and can’t sleep from the hive buzzing buzzing buzzing under his skin from his distress toward them.

It’s his great great grandma that saves him, quite literally, because an Aburame that rejects the hive is an Aburame who dies, not by any malicious intent on the Clans’ part but just- biologically. Just like starving to death will kill him, rejecting his Hive will kill him too and he KNOWS that but he can’t just- turn off his fear.

Then one day Elder Maya, the oldest living Aburame, sends for him. He comes to her private house with shivering skin and jumping senses and the hyper-awareness of the things inside him buzzing buzzing buzzing trying to remove the source of his distress and making it worse because they WERE his distress-.

Elder Maya takes his shaking hands and leads him to her garden.

It’s- it’s beautiful. It’s so beautiful he could cry for his long lost camera of another life. There are colors everywhere, blues and greens, reds, pinks, whites, and mixed splashes of yellow and purple- flowers that stand tall, flowers that droop, flowers dangling from the vines growing up tree trunks.

And everywhere there were flowers, there were butterflies. Butterflies and ladybugs, the two insects he wasn’t completely creeped out by because they were so pretty and photogenic, and for a moment Prompto is so awed his shaking stops, the Hive inside him goes quiet. A butterfly flaps lazily over to him, a glorious thing with vivid blue wings the color of magic and black dots and swirls that remind him of fire. It settles on his hand and he doesn’t flinch from it like he does the kikachu of the clan, just stays quiet and watches it with a bit of awe.

“You are not scared of these ones,” Elder Maya hums.

“U-um ... no,” he whispers as he watches it, “they’re ... pretty. Cute. They don’t ... they don’t look like they’ll hurt me.” And that’s not really his issue with the Kikaichu, but he can’t explain a phobia to ninja, not well anyway.

“Good,” says his great great grandmother, but not with her lips, with the soft splash of impression-scent-sensation from the butterfly on his hand and he gapes as he realizes THIS is her hive. These ladybugs and butterflies are Elder Maya’s hive. He stares at her and she adjusts the dark glasses she wears, “I will give you some of mine. Why? So you can cultivate a new Hive that you will not be afraid of.”

And she does. And it’s CREEPY, but also ... kinda not? It’s ... it still freaks him out to have bugs under his skin, but these ones ... he knows these ones. He chose them, he hatched them, he raised them. They are beautiful and deadly and soft looking and can strip flesh from a target in seconds and he wishes he had a camera because it would be so cool to have butterflies that can pose on command.

It’s a rocky road, but his shaking stops, and his weight goes back to normal, and his sleep schedule returns, and all the Clan breathes a sigh of relief when they see Prompto ambling around, not flinching from the glittery blue butterflies flitting on his shoulders.

And it’s not like his old life, his brothers he misses so badly, but its kinda nice to never be alone. Wherever he goes, his Hive goes, and his new Queens are kinda ... bossy almost and its endearing in a creepy kinda way. The only thing that would make life better, make it perfect (other than to not need a Hive in the first place) would be to have his brothers again.

And then they go to the new village of Konoha, and he meets the famed and terrifying Yoru, who isn’t terrifying at all, but is instead old and tired and blue eyed, and a fish lover and when he smiles, crooked and shy at Prompto all his Hive SINGS under his skin because he KNOWS.

And suddenly the world is perfect again.

[theysacrifice-a]

@avulsusprinceps​      →     from here.

● – || In an echoing silence , Noctis sat upon the throne in the Citadel with his sword piercing through his chest . His eyes flickered , his vision going hazy as his life slipped from his form . He could hear people calling his name , and holding onto him tight . Out of the corner of his eye he could see his hand limply curled against the crushed - velvet - armrest of the throne . He slowly blinked and , the next thing he knew was he could feel Prompto holding his hand like a lifeline . . . just as they always had when no one was looking .

Tear trickled down his cheek as his voice and heart broke with the words that would end up being his last .

" Y-You can . . . let go now , P-Prompto . . . "

He whispered , his voice fading with every pain-staking breath .

"I-I'll be . . . okay . . . "

He had hung on for Prompto , and as his hand fell limp in the hand of the man he had always loved as more than a best friend . . . he let go knowing that Prompto was there . . . he was ever by his side.

it was finally  over  .  as the sun rose  &  the last of the daemons vanished  ,  prompto’s arms fell to his side  ,  sore  &  aching  from the long fight.  he should be happy.  the sun should feel  warm  against his face  ,  but he just feels  cold  ,  feels  empty  ,  feels so terribly  &  awfully  hollow  that nothing feels like  anything  anymore.  his feet carry him  numbly  inside of the citadel  ,  up the stairs  &  towards the  throne  room like he’d been there a  thousand  times before.

he never  has  ,  but the image of noctis’  back  as he walked away was so seared into his mind  ,  prompto couldn’t help but follow him  ,  even after death  ,  even into  nothing  .

&  he does  ,  he follows  ,  hands shaking  &  heart  aching  with each step he takes.  the doors of the throne room are  heavy  ,  but nothing feels quite as heavy as knowing what comes next.  the mourning had begun  &  ended before noctis’ death  ,  &  prompto felt as though he was walking backwards through his grief  ,  as though he were at the  beginning  rather than the end.

he isn’t quite prepared for what’s behind the doors  ,  &  his stomach  drops  at the scent of blood.  it stains the floor  ,  a  sickening  contrast that prompto does his best to ignore as he walks up the steps.  sunlight streams through a hole in the ceiling  ,  &  highlights the gruesome scene before them in an almost  peaceful  way.

it makes prompto  sick  ,  truly.

he drops to his knees beside the throne  ,  hands placed over noctis’  ,  trembling so  terribly  that he wonders how he’d ever shot a gun.  but there was nothing left for him to fight  ,  no daemons left to slay  ,  no  monsters  left undefeated.

but in the most selfish moment of his life  ,  prompto finds he’d trade the cold  ,  empty sunlight for the dark in an  instant  ,  if only it would mean noctis would come back to him.

he wouldn’t  ,  not really  ,  it wouldn’t be  fair  to everyone who had  suffered  ,  everyone who had  died  waiting for noctis  ,  for the  sun  to come back.

his name is a  breath  on noctis’ lips  &  prompto thinks it hurts more to hear than the silence did.  because this is the last time he’ll ever hear it  ,  his name said like something  important  ,  like something  precious  ,  like something  deserving  of a last breath. 

‘ noct....i-i can’t just... ’ 

but it doesn’t have to be said that prompto can’t let him go  ,  literally or  figuratively  .  nothing is ever the  same  as a first love  ,  &  nothing else ever  hurts  like your first heartbreak.  noctis’ hand is so  weak  in his  &  prompto has loved so many phases of him that this will be no different.

he has loved the boy  ,  the man  ,  the  king  ,  &  now he will spend the rest of his life loving the  ghost  ,  survived only by memories.  he’ll listen to the exaggerated tales with a fond smile  &  will grow old  &  grey loving someone who only truly exists in his memories  &  even then  ,  those too will fade someday.

&  noctis’ hand goes  limp  &  cold in his own  &  prompto finds he doesn’t have the strength to  break  the way he wants  ,  the way he  needs  .  it’s simply as though the life has left him  ,  the way his shoulders slump  &  his head rests against the arm of the throne  ,  his hands still covering noctis’.

he’s in love with the ghost of someone he could never truly have  &  it’s so fucking  tragic  ,  so fucking  pathetic  that prompto knows he’ll never be able to love anyone else  ,  not like this.  there wasn’t any happy ending in this  ,  not for him at least.

there are never any happy stories  ,  after all  ,  for people who love ghosts.

[archonssun]

Proposal HCs

This is so cute!!!!! As soon as I saw this, I realized I’ve never really figured Nyx’s character out, so I must apologize in advance if he seems ... strange. But I will still try! I won’t get better if I only write for characters I’m comfortable with!

Proposal HCs

WC: 1720

Prompto Argentum

(Note: this will take place in the first five years after Noct is taken by the Crystal)

You and Prompto have been together for about four years after you two literally ran into each other in the Citadel lobby.

He had just started his Crownsguard training, and you were an assistant to one of the King’s council members.

You were carrying papers that were stacked pretty high, and he was so nervous about training that he didn’t see you walking towards him. When y’all collided, you were fine, but your papers flew everywhere. And I mean everywhere. They were still finding papers a few months later.

As soon as you hit each other, Prompto was snapped out of his daze and his beautiful blue eyes were wide with fear. He’d already fucked up, and he hadn’t even started!

He was quick to try and help you gather the papers, and it was when he looked you in the eyes that he accidently asked you out. Even years later, you would tease him: “How do you accidently ask someone out?” “It just slipped, okay?!”

Coming back to present, he was really nervous. It had happened during a pretty peaceful day about a year after Noct disappeared. You two were just chilling in Hammerhead, waiting for your next hunt. You were inside Takka’s old diner, sitting in one of the few remaining booths.

Prompto’s arm was around your shoulders, keeping you close against him, and you had rested your head against his shoulder. As he watched you fall asleep, he knew that he wanted to marry you.

The thought was surprising, to say the least, and he immediately tensed up, which woke you up.

“What’s wrong, Prom?”

“It’s nothing, (N/n). Get some rest, ‘kay?”

He sat on that thought for almost another five years before he actually asked.

This time it was after a hunt. The daemons had been getting stronger over the past couple years, and this was the first night he thought he wouldn’t come back alive. And as soon as he saw you in Hammerhead, waiting for him, he almost broke down.

You two had been intimate before, but that night was ... something else. Prompto was frantic, almost like he wasn’t sure he was still here with you. (You wouldn’t know what had happened on that hunt until a few years later). And it was rough. Not like he was never rough during sex; he’d get that way sometimes, more often than not after a taxing hunt. But that time he was sloppy, and afterwards he was more cuddly than usual. 

That’s when it slipped.

“(Y/n),” Prompto mumbled into your shoulder, your back flush with his chest as his lips ghosted across your skin. His arms around you tightened as his nose nuzzled into your hair. You hummed, consciousness quickly fading. You were nearly asleep when he spoke up.

“Marry me.”

That got you awake, and you shot up, bringing him with you. You turned to face him, to maybe find some sort of sign that he had been joking or not. But he hadn’t been; his eyes were focused on you, and you were quickly falling into them.

“(Y/n)?” Prompto frowned. You realized you hadn’t said anything, and shook yourself.

“You’re serious?”

“Of course I’m serious,” he retorted, his frown deepening slightly. “I want to marry you. I’ve known for years, but I never--”

“Yes.” His ocean eyes were wide as saucers as you took his face in your hands. You brought your face before his, your lips barely touching “Of course I’ll marry you, Prompto.”

“Gods, I love you,” he groaned, capturing your lips in a tender kiss.

Ignis Scientia

Ignis would probably be the most romantic when he asks you, to be honest. (He’d also be kind of like Kunikida from Bungou Stray Dogs (at least, I think so) in the fact that he’d only ask you after a certain amount of time has passed.)

When he asks, you two had been together for six years, knowing him when he was a teenager. It surprised Noct when he found out his future advisor had a significant other. The poor boy was speechless when he first met you. You were a snarky little spitfire that rivalled Ignis at every turn, even in cooking, and the crown prince had difficulty deciding who he was more scared of enjoyed having over to cook.

You got along with the prince right from the start, and you rarely treated him as royalty, which he appreciated.

The day you met Gladiolus Amicitia was the day Noctis swore off every trying to spar with you. For having no formal training, you kicked ass. Gladio’s, to be specific. And Ignis was just watching with a smirk, like he knew what was going to happen.

N e ways, you joined the boys on their journey after they had reached Lestallum to meet up with Iris. You had gotten out with the young Amicitia, and during your travels to Lestallum, you regaled her with the stories of you kicking her brother's ass (yes, it happened more than once)

Ignis was loathe to let you come with, but after he had watched you tear into a man that had gotten too close to Iris, his was miraculously fine with it (in actuality, he knew you’d kick his ass if he tried to talk you out of it, and he decided that letting you come with would lead to less broken bones for the bros, specifically him tho)

When he asked, you were in Altissia (Cliche? Yes. Romantic? Fuck yes)

Y’all were to help with evacuating the city the next day, and they all thought that you all deserved a little breather before then. So you and Iggy went walking around the city. (okay, he doesn’t really ask you, per se, but you’ll see what I mean...)

“(Y/n),” Ignis called, and you turned (e/c) hues to him. You were smiling broadly, which caused him to smile in return. “How was tonight, love?”

“It was perfect, Iggy,” you cooed, hugging his arm and resting your head on his bicep. Your eyes turned to face forward, and Ignis reached into his pocket. His touch was featherlight as he slipped the ring onto your finger.

At the feel of cold metal on your hand, you looked down and your heart nearly stopped. He had placed a beautiful band on your ring finger. It was carved to match Ignis’s daggers, complete with an emerald gem flanked by two smaller and paler green jewels.

“Ignis--”

“I love you, (Y/n),” he interrupted, and you cocked an eyebrow. He exhaled a quick breath before coming to stand in front of you and taking your hands in his. “I had planned to do this when we had gotten back to Insomnia, but then the Empire overtook the city and I thought you lost to me.

“I was so, so happy when I learned you were with Iris, and that you were alive and well,” he continued. With each word, his voice grew smaller and his eyes strayed from yours to gaze at the ground. After a pause, he met your eyes once more and gave you a delicate smile. “So, allow me to ask: would you marry me, (Y/n)?”

The tears fell from your eyes before you could stop them, but you were quick to wipe them away and give the man your brightest smile.

“Yes. Yes, Ignis, I’ll marry you,” you sputtered, wrapping your arms around the man that had stolen your heart oh so long ago. “It’s always been yes.”

Nyx Ulric

(Okay, here’s where I hit a bit of trouble. I tried to research what Nyx’s personality was like, and I think I found something? But I’m not sure, and so I’m going to be using a lot of artistic liberty with this one, along with some things I found on the FFXV Fandom Wiki (yeah, I know you can’t always trust it, but it was the only lead I got after researching for half an hour😑). Okay, obligatory warning over. Enjoy 😋)

You and Nyx were from the same area of Galahd. You grew up with him and Libertus, had even fought with them when your homeland was occupied by the Empire.

You were just a year younger than the fearless man, and it was known that wherever one of you was, the other couldn’t be far behind. And that was pretty accurate, actually. After his sister died, you were always at his side; both to reassure him that you were safe (cuz at that point he thought of you like another sister) and to keep an eye on him (he’d get pretty reckless sometimes *cough* saving Libertus from Cerberus *cough*)

It was only when you both joined the Kingsglaive that his feelings for you changed. Not that it surprised him, really, but what did surprise him was how little time had passed between him realizing his feelings and him knowing he wanted to marry you. Seriously, it was like a month, tops.

After that, it only took him four months to work up the courage to ask you.

In Galahd, they had different marriage customs, and that included asking for one’s hand in marriage. And each custom differed depending on the area one lived in Galahd. For him to ask you, he’d have to have something made for you; something with the symbol of his family on it. In this case, he had decided on a metal cuff in the shape of a Galahdian Coeurl -- the symbol of his family. The Coeurl’s one visible eye was a pale, almost icy blue to match his own, and it would coeurlurl around your wrist to bite its own tail.

You groaned as you rolled onto Nyx’s chest. You did not want to get up and go to work, especially after your and Nyx’s escapade last night. (E/c) eyes travelled down to your wrist, a soft smile reaching your lips as they were met with the bangle carved into a Coeurl. You felt the man below you stir, and you lifted your head to meet his gaze.

“Morning, Nyx,” you cooed, pressing a kiss to the tip of his nose. You watched with a laugh as his face scrunched in disgust. The man sent you a glare, and you laughed more, almost wheezing when Nyx’s lips latched onto your throat.

“Morning, (N/n),” he groaned, nipping lightly at the skin. Your eyes went wide and you started to smack his back.

“Nyx! Don’t do that there! Everyone’ll see ‘em!” you hissed. Even though you had told him no, you were still disappointed when he retreated, but not for long. Nyx placed quick, light kisses all over your face with a smile until you had devolved into a giggling mess.

“C’mon, babe. We gotta get ready for work.”

You groaned before throwing a pillow at your fiancé.

--------

tagging @blackstrawberrynightmare​ cuz they requested this beautiful fluff😘

[randomfandomimagine]

Fever (Final Fantasy XV Fic)

Requested by @sylleblossomstar:

Request: fanfiction (without reader insert) Fandom: Final Fantasy XV Characters: Gladio, Prompto,Ignis & Noctis. The idea is about the boys overworking themselfs, they are tired, angry or frustrated and obviously Gladio and Noct, fight. Noct decides to not cause more trouble and shuts about his physical health. But after a battle his body gives up and falls badly ill (dangerously high fever) they worry and cant travel, take care of him until he is strong enough to travel and they make peace.

Noctis was tired and dizzy. The humid heat and trudging for hours wasn’t helping. The Regalia was also far away, left behind as they were working hard hunting to earn some more money.

The prince sighed in annoyance to his unwell. Someone suddenly bumped his shoulder with so much force that it made him totter. It could only be Gladio.

“Step it up, Noct!” The Shield indeed told him. Noctis produced a groan of complaint.

Ignis and Prompto stopped walking when the other two did. They exchanged a look of helpless resignation as their friends inevitably argued again. 

“What was that?” Gladio asked him, shoving Noctis a little again.

“Get off my case!” The prince muttered, scowling and grimacing.

Gladio continued walking, angrily muttering to himself. The other two approached him, taking notice of how pale he looked.

“You okay?” Prompto put a hand on Noctis’ shoulder.

Although gently, he pushed him away. The blond frowned, but he knew it was better to leave him alone when he got stubborn like that.

The world, however, was spinning around Noctis. He was out of breath. Nauseous, tired and sweaty. Suddenly, he found himself surrounded by darkness.

“Noct!” Ignis exclaimed when Noctis fell, not being fast enough to catch him. The prince landed on the ground with a thud. 

Gladio and Prompto rushed to his side when they saw, but Ignis was already kneeling down and checking Noctis’ pulse. It was faint and weak.

“Iggy?” Prompto’s voice shook. “What’s wrong, is he okay?” 

Ignis pressed his hand against the prince’s forehead. He was burning up.

“He has a fever” He explained, trying to remain calm. “Hopefully, he is only fatigued”

To serene himself, Ignis tried to think logically. They had been trudging under the hot sun for hours, spending days of endless hunting. They were all tired, but it seemed like Noctis had pushed himself further than the rest.

Glancing up, he saw Prompto and Gladio watching them. The latter was frozen in place, his amber eyes fixed on the unconscious Noctis. 

“W-What do we do?” The blond piped up, fidgeting to make up for Gladio’s stillness.

“Uh, well...” Ignis’ fingers trembled as he went to adjust his glasses. “Let’s see...”

“Will he be okay?” Gladio suddenly mumbled, snapping Ignis out of his daze as well as himself.

Ignis nodded his head, taking a deep breath to settle his nerves. 

“Prompto, get the car” He tossed him the keys and then turned to the other man. “Gladio, pick him up. We need to get him somewhere shaded and cool”

Without a word, the three men worked to look after their friend. They had to get his fever down. Prompto ran at top speed, causing the keys to jingle in his hand. Gladio carefully propped Noctis up and carried him over his shoulder. 

In the meantime, following Gladio to the car that Prompto would bring to them, Ignis quickly went over his first aid knowledge. They had a kit in the trunk of the car. There was a cold compress there that they could use to get his temperature down. Then they would take him somewhere safe where he could rest. Where they could look after him. Heaving a trembling sigh, he nodded to himself. He knew what to do.

-

Noctis woke up, feeling like a long time had passed. His head was spinning. He felt weak, tired and heavy. Slow, confused. Something cold was pressed against his burning forehead. It helped.

When he slowly opened his eyes, a voice immediately received him.

“Noct!” Prompto exclaimed, quickly standing from his chair beside the bed.

“Prompto...” His friend muttered, feeling disoriented as he looked around the room. “What... what happened?” 

Last thing he remembered, they were hunting. Running under the burning sun. He remembered feeling very sick, and nothing more after that.

“Guys!” Prompto called out, then facing his friend once more. “You scared us so much, Noct! You were really sick, Iggy said you were exhausted” 

“Where are we?” 

“Oh, we brought you to this hotel, you needed to rest”

“And where’s everyone?” 

“They’re around, we were all so worried about you...”

Uncomfortable with Prompto’s urgent staring, the prince averted his gaze. He had noticed the dark circle under his friend’s eyes, noticed how his hands trembled slightly. Noctis didn’t know how long he was unconscsious for, but it had to be serious for them to be so scared for him.

Just as he thought about it, two restless figures erupted into the room. Watching with the corner of his eye, Noctis saw Ignis approaching his bed. Gladio stood at the threshold, with his arms closed over his chest.

“Noct, you’re awake” Ignis sighed in releif. “How are you feeling, are you alright?”

“I’m fine, Specs,,,” He replied, still not making eye contact with anyone.

“You scared the crap out of us” Gladio said behind them. His tone was neutral.

Noctis finally looked up. His Shield lingered in that spot, watching him carefully. Nonetheless, he could read the concern wash out and turn into relief, all hidden beneath his apparent annoyance.

“You were quite sick” Ignis rested a hand on the prince’s shoulder. “Why didn’t you say anything?” 

“Everyone was grumpy and tired” He shrugged a little. “I didn’t want to give more trouble”

“Well, you did” Gladio replied from the door. “We haven’t moved from this place in two days because of you”

Noctis stared at him. He knew that dangerous edge in Gladio’s voice, but this time it was different. This time it felt forced, like he wanted to stay mad but couldn’t. Like he was too happy to see Noctis was okay to be annoyed that he pushed himself on the first place.

“The important thing is Noct is okay!” Prompto cheerfully said, breaking the tension that hung in the air. 

“Yes” Ignis kindly patted the prince before dropping his hand. “But you need to take it easy, you are still convalescent”

“Sure...” Noctis awkwardly stirred in the bed. “Thanks for looking after me”

Prompto muttered something about being friends as he went to hug him tight, laughing playfully yet in utter glee that Noctis was alright. 

Gladio rolled his eyes, insisting that it was their job. Despite his deadpan voice, there was a small smile on his lips. His shoulders relaxed as well.

Ignis, on turn, reminded him that it was their duty. Yet as well, their pleasure.

Noctis sighed, and although he still felt a bit sick, he wasn’t worried. He smiled a little. His friends were there for him, to take care of him. Always had, always would be.

Tag list: @anxiouslyreckless / @xionroxas / @dancewaterdance02 / @blossattic / @little-faerie-artist / @x-joie-x / @snowfire71 / @goodmorningawfulbye / @daggerheartilly / @legallyblindgamer727 // If you want to be added or taken off the tag list for these fandoms or characters, let me know!! // Reblogs and comments are appreciated!

[jiminthestreets-bonesinthesheets]

Final Fantasy: At Lucis End - CH 3

Fandom: Final Fantasy XV, Final Fantasy 

Rating: Mature

Pairing: Noctis Lucis Caelum/Original Female Character(s) 

AO3

Masterlist

Summary:

    A treaty. A light at the end of the tunnel that King Regis had been staring down for years. A proposal. A wedding that stands to save the lands. A betrayal. That could tear it all down. And a love. So strong yet so torn.

    The war between Lucis and Niflheim could come to an end, but much will have to be sacrificed along the way. And in the end, would it even be enough? Would the loss of life, love, and family be enough to save the people of Lucis? Or will it all come crumbling down in the end?

*** MY WORK IS NOT TO BE POSTED ON ANY OTHER SITE WITHOUT MY EXPRESS WRITTEN PERMISSION. THOUGH REBLOGS AND COMMENTS ARE SUPER LOVED AND APPRECIATED! THANKS FAM!***

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Chapter 3

     “What did you do to her?!”

     Noctis was standing off to the side of the Regalia at the rest stop, Ignis filling up the car while Gladio and Ara remained inside, and Prompto paced circles around him while he yelled. 

     “She won't talk to me, she won't look at me,” he named off as he counted on his hands, then flailed them wildly as he came to stop in front of him, “and I asked her three times to play Dungeons and Daemons with me, and everytime she said no. She always plays Dungeons and Daemons with me! What did you do?! You broke her!"

     Noct crossed his arms over his chest and brought a hand up to pinch his nose, “It's… Nothing, I did nothing.”

     “Obviously something,” he raised his brows, “this is not her, she's not like this, I've never seen her like this. Are you guys fighting? You never fight, is that it?”

     “I…” he waved a hand, “Yeah, I guess so, kind of, not that it's my choice.”

     “Why? What are you fighting about?”

     “We-”

     “This is ridiculous,” Prompto shook his head, “I mean, you guys don't fight, you just don't, so why can't you just get over whatever it is and move on already-”

     “We’re fighting over the wedding!” Prompto stopped dead, completely frozen, staring at Noctis with wide eyes. “This stupid wedding is what's driven a wedge between us. That's why she's mad."

     "Well… why?"

     Noctis sighed, running his hand over his face before deciding it was best to just give in. "She doesn't want me to get married."

     "... Why not?"

     "Because she loves me."

     "Oh…" He took a second then looked up to Noctis with impossibly wider eyes, "Oh!"

     "And I love her too," Noctis nodded, waiting to see how his friend would react.

     "So," he began, walking a bit closer, "were you two together before this?"

     "No," he shook his head with a solemn look, "we should have been, but we were both too stupid to say anything, and now we're damned to be seperated forever."

     "Why didn't you just say no?"

     "To my father?" Noctis asked, dumbfounded, and Promoto nodded, "Say no to the King when he says our only option for peace is my marriage? I don't think so, Prom."

     "Did you tell your father about Ara?" He tried, "About how you two feel about each other? He loves Ara like family, we all do, surely he would at least try to find a better way if you told him that you two wanted to get married instead. That is what you're telling me right? That you want to marry Ara and not Lunafreya?"

     "I don't want anyone else, Prom," he closed his eyes then opened them to look over at the Regalia. Ara was still inside, still sitting in the back turned towards the side of the car. Noct couldn't see her face too clearly from where he was standing, but from what he could see it looked as if she were wiping a stray tear from her cheek as he turned back to Prompto. "But between my father's orders and her not wanting me to go against this treaty, I don't have many other options."

     "So you two talked about this then," he too turned to look at her, then back to Noctis.

     "Yes, and she doesn't want to go against my father's decision. She doesn't want to break the treaty apart so that we can be together," he rubbed his forehead, trying to stave off the headache he could feel coming, "she doesn't think that Iedolas would negotiate any other terms and she won't risk the continuation of the war. She thinks that my marrying the princess is what's best for the people of Lucis."

     "Do you think there could be another way? Is she right about Iedolas?"

     "I…" he sighed, "I want her to be wrong, but I don't know. Iedolas has all the power in this situation, he's got Lucis on it's last ropes, the old walls and new are going to fall and my father is not getting any better. Every day that he pulls magic from the crystal to keep the people safe, it drains his life more and more. Eventually it will drain him completely and then we will have no defence against Niflheim’s troops. Iedolas knows this, and knows that now is the time to make his demands, and he has. He knows my father is too weak to fight back, too tired to find another way because there isn't one. I don't know what else we could do."

     "Have you talked to Ignis and Gladiolus?" He gestured towards the car, "They're close to your father, maybe they can talk to him."

     "They won't try to change his mind," he shook his head, "at least not until they have solid proof of sabotage on Niflheim’s behalf or a way that won't end in war. But I'm afraid they won't be able to find either of those things before the wedding. We don't have much time here, Prom!"

     "Okay," he raised his arms to try and calm Noctis, landing them on his shoulders with a squeeze, "okay, don't panic. I'm sure we can come up with something, or even a way to delay the wedding until we can. I'll talk to Ignis and Gladiolus and see where I can help."

     "Thanks, Prom," Noctis sighed in relief, giving him a small smile, "thank you."

     "I've always got your back, Noct."

     "Noctis, Prompto!" Both boys turned at the sound of Gladio’s booming voice. "Get your butts in the car, we're leaving now."

     They both nodded and walked together back to the Regalia, Prom’s arm around Noctis’s shoulders, and jumped back in. 

~~~~~~~~~~~

     Every second they were in the car was a second closer to Niflheim, to Noct’s wedding, to her last moments as a citizen of Lucis. And despite her conversation with Nyx before she left, she still couldn't shake the cloud that hung low over her head. She couldn't even look at Noctis let alone attempt to live in the moment, to be happy with Noctis while she had the chance and pretend to live in a world where she wasn't driving closer and closer to losing him for good. 

     And now it was nearing the end of their first day, already. They had pulled into Hammerhead not too long ago, and were now waiting as Ignis set up a motel room for the five of them. And still, no one had said a word since they left Insomnia. 

     "I've got us a room," Ignis announced as he walked back over to the car, "only one room for the five of us, but there's a pull out, you can have that if you'd like, Ara."

     She just nodded her head and jumped out of the car, grabbing her bag from the back and passing Ignis. 

     The others followed slowly behind her, entering the room as she turned right back around and left again. 

     "Where are you going?" Gladio turned with his arms out in question. 

     "Take Noctis inside, I'm going on a patrol run," she answered, back turned as she pulled out her apocalypse blade, "I won't be long."

~~~~~~~~~~~

     "Should someone maybe go after her?"

     Promoto was now sitting on the edge of the bed, watching as Noctis silently paced by the door, occasionally looking out the window. Ara had been gone for hours. What was supposed to be a quick patrol had turned into almost three hours of Noctis about ready to barge out and go looking for her himself. 

     "She's fine, Prompto," Gladio spoke from where he was lounged back on the other bed. Shirt off, track pants on, and looking like he could pass out at any second, "she's a big girl, she can handle herself."

     "But she's been gone for a while," Prompto tried again, "maybe I should just go out and make sure she's okay."

     "What could possibly harm her in Hammerhead," Gladio answered, "She's fine. She can handle herself."

     "She probably just needed some air," Ignis gave Prompto a look and he just nodded back, dropping the subject. 

     A few moments of silence passed between them all, before Noctis looked out the window once more then hastily moved towards the door. "I'm going after her."

     "You most certainly are not."

     "I can handle myself just as well as she can, Ignis, I'm not leaving her out there alone in the dark."

     Ignis side stepped to block Noctis from the door, earning himself a deep glare. "If it means that much to you, I'll go look for her."

     "No, I'll go," Gladio stood from the bed, stretching and reaching for his discarded shirt, "even though I know she's fine." 

     Noctis thought about it for a second, then resigned with a nod and stepped back to let Gladio leave. Just as he put on his shirt and was about to summon his blade, the front door opened, and Ara walked in. 

     "What's going on?" She asked as she looked around cautiously. 

     "Where were you?" Noctis asked, practically rushing at her, but she leaned back, shocking him to a stop. 

     "I told you, I went on patrol."

     "I take it everything was fine?" Ignis asked, trying to diffuse the very obvious tension in the room. 

     "Fine, the town's quiet."

     "So why were you gone so long then?" Noctis braved another step closer to her, and though she didn't recoil this time he could tell she was fighting it. "I was worried about you."

     "You don't need to worry about me, Prince Noctis, I am here to worry about you."

     Even Ignis scrunched his nose at the use of formalities from her. Though before it could be addressed any further, her phone rang and she excused herself. 

     "It's Nyx," she said, pulling the phone out of her pocket, "I'll take this outside."

     She left the four boys behind without even a second glance back. She knew she was hurting Noctis, but if that was what could put some distance between them, then it would have to be done. 

     She pushed the thought out of her head for now, sitting in the chair outside the room, and answered her phone. 

     "Hey."

     "Hey, baby girl, are you safe?"

     She smiled at the sound of his voice, just hearing it was the comfort she needed right now. "Yeah we're safe. We're in Hammerhead, staying here for the night."

     "That's a fairly quiet town," he agreed, she could hear the relief in his voice, "did you patrol?"

     "All quiet on the front," she sighed as a silence fell over them, then she risked a curious, "Did… did you talk to Regis?"

     "This morning after you left," he hummed, "he's not too keen on this treaty either. Something's up, we all know it and so does he, but he's right in the fact that Iedolas holds the power right now, and we have to let him keep it. Until we can figure out Niflheim’s next move, we have to just keep playing along, or else we could be back at war before we're ready."

     "I should come back," she stated firmly, "if something goes wrong and war hits Insomnia again, I should be there."

     "No, you have to stay with Noctis."

     "Noctis is fine, and he has three other fully capable fighters by his side should something happen all the way out here," she nodded to herself, "I'm coming back."

     "Ara, you are staying with Noctis." She could tell he was using his 'dad' voice now, firm and final, so she sat back in her chair. "Keep to the plan, stay with Noctis."

     "But I'm one of Lucis' best fighters. Wouldn't it make more sense to have me closer to the fight?"

     "Ara-"

     "Don't think I don't know what you're doing," she cut him off, and he waited for her to continue, "if Insomnia and Niflheim do go back to war, it will be to the end this time. There will be no drawing it out for years like before. Both sides will throw everything they have at the other and someone will come out victorious. And you want me as far away from that as possible, which is why you're happy that Regis sent me with Noctis, despite the fact that I could help in the fight."

     There was a second of quiet before Nyx let out a defeated chuckle, "Too smart for your own good, baby girl. And you're right, I am happy to have you far away from what could be the most intense fight any of us have ever seen. But…"

     "But?" She urged. 

     "But," he continued, "Regis is right about one thing. No matter what, Noctis must be kept safe, and you're the best person for that. And if war does fall on Insomnia and the city falls, if Regis falls, those remaining will look to Noctis. He will be our light in the dark, Regis said. So I need you to just stick with him."

     She closed her eyes and had to admit they were both right. If anything happened, Noctis would need to step up and lead. And no matter what was happening around them, she would give her last breath to protect him, Regis knew that. "Fine, I'll stay here. But if things get really bad, Nyx, I'm coming back."

     "Let's play it by ear," he reasoned, "so far it's been quiet, but it feels like something’s building. So until I say so, don't you move."

     "Yes, Sir," she mused in a playful tone. 

     "Your sass will be my end,” he laughed and it made her smile, “but I have to go, I have more meetings to attend. If I get any information, I'll call you.”

     “Sounds good.”

     “Okay, call me tomorrow if you can. Good night, baby girl.”

     “Good night, Nyx.” And she hung up the phone.

~~~~~~~~~~~

     Nyx stood before the doors to the throne room, took a calming breath, and pushed. The room was empty aside from Regis who was still sitting on his throne, elbow rested on the arm, and his head in his hand. But it was just him. No council members, no Glaive, no Kingscrown. It was eerily quiet as Nyx walked the long stretch towards the throne, his boots clanging unusually loud against the marble floors, almost sounding obnoxious.

     Regis didn't look up, or even open his eyes, until Nyx stopped at the bottom of the steps. He gave a quick bow then bound up the stairs. 

     “Did you speak with Araceli?”

     Nyx nodded as he reached the top.

     “What did you tell her?”

     “Nothing.” The king nodded, resting his chin on his hand.

     “Is it wise to keep her in the dark?” He asked, rubbing his hand across his beard.

     “She already wants to come back. If the fighting starts again she wants to be here,” Nyx shook his head, “she's right in saying that we could use her on the battlefield, but it's better that she stays with Noctis. If we tell her of our plan, she will return, whether I tell her to or not. Trust me, it's better this way.”

     The king hummed, “Perhaps you're right. As much as I hate to hide this from her, I would rather them both be safe.”

     “As would I.”

     The king nodded slowly, thinking over everything that had happened over the past few days. Everything was happening so fast, too fast. A sudden peace treaty, his son being sent off to marry Niflheim royalty, the looming threat that this was only a ploy, a distraction of some sort to keep Regis in a state of ease, and he was getting weaker and weaker by the day. If he was honest, he wasn't sure he would even see the end of another war. 

     “If we are going to go through with this, your Highness, we are going to need more help.”

     “At this point, Nyx, I'm not sure who I trust,” He rubbed his eyes then turned to face him. “Who do you suggest?”

     Nyx smirked, “I have a few people in mind, people I would trust with my life.”

     The king nodded, “Bring them in, we'll let them know the plan and discuss this with them immediately.”

     “Yes, your Highness.” He bowed and quickly made his way back towards the door, “I'll let you know when we're ready in the briefing room.”

~~~~~~~~~~~

     “You want to do what?!” 

     Nyx was standing in Libertus’s living room. The Glaive member, and his best friend, was sitting on the couch staring up at him in complete disbelief while he remained completely calm. 

     “I can't believe that of all things, this is what you and the king have come up with!?” He yelled, “And you want me to, what? Fall in right behind you as always?! Gullible as always Libertus, following his best friend right into the mouth of death?! You do realize that if we get caught, we'll die, right!”

     “Do you have any other ideas?” Was all he asked, still calm.

     “I… no,” he shook his head and sat in the chair across from Nyx, “I don't have another idea, but that doesn't mean that this idea is a good one.”

     “Trust me, Lib, I don't like it either,” he leaned forwards and rested his arms on his knees, “but right now it's our best option.”

     “And what exactly do you want me to do?” He too leaned forwards on his knees. “Have your back like always, I guess.”

     “Do you?” He asked, brow raised, “Have my back?”

     “Of course I do,” Libertus answered without hesitation, leaning back against the couch, “you know I always do, no matter what. Even when the plan's as messed up as this one, I'll still be right by your side, as always. Just know, if we get caught and killed, I'll kill you.”

     Nyx actually laughed, a little of the stress from the day lifting slightly.

     “So what do we do now?”

     Nyx stood, heading towards the door and Libertus followed right behind, “We have a few more people to talk to, then the rest is up to the king.”

~~~~~~~~~~~

A/N: More to come! <3 Getting closer and closer to the excitement!

TAGS: @wisteriayamashi @prettyprompto @tea-time-with-devil-traps @idiotflowerex

I know its been like, a hundred years since I last posted (My bad guys) but if anyone ones to be tagged or untagged then just shoot me a message! <3

[absolutelynoct]

oh no! im so sorry to hear about your apartment :( hopefully all will be okay! to brighten your day (and because your current fic is so good) could i please have some ignoct? you've inspired me to love this ship when i had always been on the fence about it but now i super love it! ive requested other asks from you so im really happy your doing this again! umm, how about some older ignoct, like both are kings now! not sure on theme but something fluffy something sexy. stay safe love your stuff

[Hello Anon! Thank you so much for your request! You are the first to make it over to the inbox :) I am so glad that you’re enjoying my current fic, and I’m even happier that you like it even though Ignoct was iffy for you before it! I hope you enjoy this prompt- it was a lot of fun to write! <3]

At thirty years old, many assumed that King Noctis would have grown out of his penchant for sleep. Many assumed that as a king, he had many tasks to do and didn’t have time to sleep. The best part about being married to someone as capable as Ignis Scientia made sleep easier, not just for Noctis but for Ignis as well. As King and King Consort, they found that they did well nearly working in shifts. Ignis took over the morning duties, advisements, and other kingly needs, while Noctis would wake up later and take care of the late night items on the docket. It worked for them rather well, but the thing that they looked forward to move was the time that they had in between, when there was nothing for them to do. Well, almost nothing.

Noctis was fast asleep in their bed chambers within the Citadel, enjoying his peaceful rest until the early afternoon hours. He was usually up until the early morning hours, sometimes staying up to take care of things that Ignis would take over when he awoke and insisted Noctis get some rest. Right now, he was lost in a dream world, somewhere far away and at peace, a soft smile on his face as Ignis stepped into the chamber to wake him.

Before waking him, though, Ignis took off his kingly reignment, knowing that he would don that attire soon enough. It didn’t bother him, although it was a tedious process to take off all the adornments befitting the King Consort. While Noctis was eager to just throw his clothes anywhere, Ignis was careful to lay them out for the staff to care for. Ignis had gotten in the habit of picking up after Noctis at an early age. At least on that front, things hadn’t really changed.

“Noctis,” Ignis said as he walked over to his husband, caressing the soft black hair as he moved it out of his face. Noctis let out a low hum, somewhere between a grunt and a moan of disapproval. It made Ignis smile. Always so difficult. “It’s time to get up. You have to be the king for today.”

“As king I declare that I’m going to sleep,” Noctis protested, making Ignis laugh. Noctis pulled the blankets around him tighter, reminding Ignis of when he was twenty, or fifteen, or ten. It was always the same hassle, yet that was why Ignis had dressed down into his black slacks and a shirt instead of wearing something particularly fancy. Sometimes he just had to have the ability to stretch in the event he had to toss Noctis out of the bed.

“And as the king consort, I declare that you need to get up so you can give me a kiss,” Ignis replied. He suppressed a grin, knowing that such a proclamation always worked on Noctis. 

Today, though, it had the opposite effect of what Ignis expected. Quickly, Noctis reached for him and wrapped his arms around his waist, knocking him off balance as he pulled Ignis into the bed. Both of them ended up laughing, delighting in an intimate moment before the world hit them with all their duties. Ignis ended up straddled on top of Noctis, pinning his hands down on either side of his head, fingers intertwined. Noctis’s eyes finally fluttered open, deep pools of liquid smoke and azure that had yet to dull with age.

“Cheater,” Noctis accused, but he didn’t seem that genuine in his stubbornness. Ignis knew this game well. They had played it for years, ever since they got together when Noctis was twenty. Ignis looked down and realized Noctis was sleeping shirtless this time, his bare chest beautiful and toned.

“Who is the cheater exactly?” Ignis asked, watching as Noctis flushed a bit. Even after all these years, it still sent a flurry of excitement through him. He would never tire of Noctis’s shyness and inability to accept any sort of compliment.

“I got hot in the night,” Noctis explained, his eyes darting away in vague embarrassment. “It’s your fault. You hang on me all night.”

“I do,” Ignis purred, leaning down so their lips were almost touching. He could feel Noctis’s breath on his lips, not at all bothered at his morning breath. They had been together for ten years as a couple, after all. If he was bothered by it now, then it was going to be a shock to them both. “And you are hot all the time, Noctis. It’s time you admit that.”

Noctis made to protest, but Ignis was kissing him before he could stop him. For a long while they were lost in each other’s lips, their hands clutching onto each other as they forgot their worries for just a moment and only remembered each other. Ignis eventually pulled away with a smile, looking at his husband with a love that he hadn’t ever felt for anyone else. Noctis looked breathless, as he always did during these moments, and Ignis knew that his king felt the same.

“I can see you’re up now,” Ignis mused with a bit of a laugh, rocking his hips just a bit so Noctis let out a low moan. Instead of indulging him, he got up and out of the bed. Noctis let out a whine, a plea for him not to be so cruel. “If you don’t overwork yourself today then perhaps we can enjoy each other’s company tonight.”

Noctis perked up at that, hopping out of bed and looking at Ignis with excited eyes. Even at thirty years old, he was so easy to read. “I’ll be done by midnight.”

“I look forward to it,” Ignis chuckled. “Get ready and I’ll join you for your duties this afternoon.”

Noctis beamed at that, and immediately began to get dressed for the day, looking far more a king than just a few moments ago. Ignis watched him, delighting in the fact that this was his life. Noctis was his life and always had been. Nothing was going to change that, and Ignis was forever grateful that his adoring husband felt the same.

[rexelectus]

● – || Wait for Me

● – || He lay alongside Lunafreya their last night together, wide awake as his arm remained snaked around her waist to keep her close. His nose nuzzled against her hair as he cherished this moment one last time. While he had promised, while he swore. . . His heart was already made up. It had been made up since before she arrived. 

Tucked in the safety of his bedroom was a bag packed and ready for his journey of belongings he was prepared to never see again once he entered enemy territory. 

Gingerly, Noctis kissed Luna’s lips while she was sleeping. Light. Chaste. A promise to see her again come the future. 

“Wait for me. . .” He whispered. One last kiss and then he drew away from her completely to leave her to rest. In the moonlight he could see the bright glow of the ring he had placed on her finger. This was harder for him than he would admit, but he had promised himself that he would save her and this was the best way that he thought possible.

As he made his way to the door, Noctis gave Pryna and Umbra the attention they deserved. A few pets each as he nuzzled their heads. 

“Keep . . . Keep her safe for me.” He whispered. Shortly after that, Noctis slipped from Luna’s room as quietly as possible. 

Now, came the task that would really be a challenge. He grabbed his pre-packed back from his room and the keys to his car. On his bed set a note, one he had written in case anyone wondered where he went. 

Dear Lunafreya, dad, guys, Clarus. 

My mind has been made up for a long time. I’m sorry to everyone that I’m leaving behind. I promised myself I would save someone very special to me and taking her place is the only thing I’ve thought about since we were children. 

I’ll return soon. 

Noctis. 

 Ravus had sworn he wasn’t taking him, a promise he had made to Luna. So, he was doing this on his own to put peace to the voices that RAGED inside of his mind.  He looked back at his room one last time then closed his eyes as if to capture the memory. 

“I’ll be back. . .”

Will he make it? 

It wasn’t long before Noctis had made it to his car.  He put the keys in the ignition and started the Regalia up. He pulled out of the garage then looked upon his childhood home for what may be the last time. So many memories through those halls. Laughter. . . Pain. . . A proposal. He’d miss the world he had been raised in so elegantly. One day he’d return and when that day would be, he’d be married. 

He drove long nights and long days, only stopping briefly in order to rest for short spurts of time. He was DETERMINED to make it to the Empire before anyone had time to stop him from what he was determined to do. He wasn’t an idiot, he knew far too well that there would be search parties after him once that note was found. Frankly, they were probably already after him but they’d be too late. On day two, Noctis left the Regalia at his rest point, taking the keys with him. From that point on, he traveled by other means until he reached the Empire. 

At long last, he looked upon the gates that had kept Luna and Ravus prisoners their entire lives. They looked as he would expect, like bars of a lethal prison that once people entered it was rare they left in return. 

“Identification.” A guard at the gate stated. 

“Noctis Lucis Caelum.” The Prince replied, swallowing his nerves as he looked upon the guard. 

In the blink of an eye, Noctis was surrounded by soldiers with guns aimed for him and ready to fire. He held his hands up in surrender. The rest was a blur if Noctis had ever experienced one. He stood before the emperor and stated his reasoning for being there, which was met with cruel laughter of victory for capturing one of the few on their list of people the Empire wished to eliminate. 

Then everything went BLACK after a nearly fatal blow to his head. 

When he woke up what felt like centuries later, Noctis tugged on the cold, iron chains that kept him against a wall of, what he could only assume, to be his new cage. His head was THROBBING from whatever it was that had knocked him out prior to him being in there. 

As he heard the door opening to reveal a guard, Noctis looked at him with the determination in his eyes. 

“You can’t break me.” Noctis growled as he tugged at the wrist restraints. 

“No? Let’s see if that’s true.” The guard said calmly as he approached the Prince. 

Noctis’ bright blue eyes widened in fear and then-

“AHHH!!!!” 

Again. Again. . . again. . . Until the prince lay limp and barely breathing against the wall.

Drip . . . 

     Drop . . .

Drip . . . 

     Drop . . .

The stone flooring slowly became stained red from the blood of the Chosen King. 

“Luna. . . wait for me . . .”

[amarabliss]

Oaths and Hearts - 18 (Ignis Scientia/Reader)

So this is a crossover between FFXV and Dragon Age Inquisition.

You fell through a rift into the fade fighting the demons you swore to protect your world from. When you popped out you were no longer in the lands of Ferelden instead trapped in Insomnia. The gracious king allowed you to say recognizing power when he saw it. One thing led to another and now you were part of the procession of the prince to his wedding years later. Before the final battle, after years of fighting, losses, and love…your friend…your king…Noctis has asked you to change it all…

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 Part 7 Part 8 Part 9 Part 10 Part 11  Part 12  Part 13 Part 14 Part 15 Part 16  Part 17

Ignis yawned as he walked onto the site of construction. He took in a deep breath before raising his coffee up for a drink. His peace was broken by Gladio giving his two cents, “Duel wielding is illegal in some countries.”

Ignis turned giving him an exasperated look, “I know for a fact that duel wielding is completely legal in Insomnia, but I suppose you’re referring to my coffee and thermos.”

“Rough night still?” Gladio looked at him with concern.

“Her contractions are getting more frequent.” Ignis brought the cup up again, “She nearly said it was time last night.”

“She did?” Gladio’s eyes widened before he smiled, “Wow…It’s hard to believe you’re going to be a dad soon.”

“Did it happen? Are we uncles!?” Prompto ran up to him.

“Do you really think he’d be here if Y/N had the baby?” Noctis walked over wearing a safety hat on smirking, “Better get used to sleepless nights buddy.”

“So, I have been reminded daily.” Ignis sighed before setting his thermos on a bench, “Enough about me, where are we in the project?”

“Iggy…” Noct stepped close to him, “we do have a handle on this. You can go and get some rest.”

Ignis smiled at him, “I appreciate the concern, but I am getting enough rest. Y/N assures me we still have a couple of weeks…”

He looked at them all staring at him. Gladio was the first to speak, “Did you…read that in a book?”

“I…no…she just…I trust her.” Ignis set his empty cup down, “She is a woman after all…”

“Ignis, babies aren’t like calendars…” Gladio sighed shaking his head, “I can’t even remember the amount of false alarms my mom and dad had with Iris…and she was early…like three weeks early.”

Ignis stared at him a moment before shaking his head a little, “This is different.”

“You’re delusional!” Prompto rolled his eyes before smiling, “Regardless…I have the camera close by so we can get all the pictures we need when our little man arrives.”

“Our?” Ignis watched him and Gladio walking toward the contractor.

“Yeah…” Noctis smiled at him, “You’re the first of us to have a kid. We’re excited and knowing your baby is a little man…expect many gifts and a spoiled rotten kid. At least for a little while…”

Ignis looked at him, “You are Luna have talked then…”

“More then that.” Noct blushed a little, “She has her duties and I have mine, but…we can’t help wanting more then just our kingdoms and responsibilities.”

“Well…in time, you’ll get your wish.” Ignis put a hand on his shoulder, “You’re both young yet…”

“You say that as if you’re so much older then I am.” Noct laughed as they both walked to catch up with the others.

“In terms of maturity, until recently…” Ignis smirked chuckling as Noct glared at him a little.

The work was hard and honest. Rebuilding took manpower they didn’t have and everyone had begun to wear thin. But hope was in the future.

Luna had convinced Altissia to send aid sooner than later. The boys capture of the crystal had made a significant impact in how the world viewed Insomnia's young king. Not to mention the flocks of Insomnian citizens returning home. Everyone wanted to help.

It was the beginning of a new world view. Status barely mattered, just assisting your fellow man was enough.

Ignis looked up at the bright blue sky wiping is brow. Noctis had decided that rebuilding the hospital and other public venues needed to be priority one. The people rallied behind and progress was good despite the lack of supplies and people.

“Ignis!” The alarmed cry from below Drew is attention away from a flock of flying birds. It was Libertus and Tor running up to the work crews.

“Right here…what’s wrong?” He pushed through the crowd to get to them.

“Its time.” The both told him breathless, “She…Y/N…she’s…”

“What?” Ignis felt his hair practically stand on end as he shook his head, “No…no we’re supposed to have more time…we…”

“Iggy…” He looked at Gladio who stepped up next to him with Prompto, “it’s time…”

“But…nothing’s ready. I was supposed…I…we don’t even have a crib…” Ignis frowned putting a hand to his forehead.

“Hey hey!” Prompto waved his hands at him, “You only have one thing to worry about right now and that’s getting to Y/N and helping her. That’s your job right now.”

Ignis looked at him finding a strange comfort from his words before he nodded, “Right…yes, of course.”

“So, let’s get you there as fast as we can.” Noctis stepped up next to him putting his arm around Ignis’ shoulders, “Hold on.”

Ignis had warped before in short spurts when he and Noct performed maneuvers in battle. Galdio and Prompto both said that it made them sick afterwards. Ignis didn’t find he had that problem until now as his nerves fell into overdrive.

“Breathe Specs.” Noct reminded him as they landed already halfway to their destination.

Ignis looked at him seeing sweat drip down his friend’s face, “Noct, I can manage the rest.”

“Nonsense…” Noct shook his head warping to the next spot taking in a deep breath, “I can get you a bit closer.”

“Noct…” Ignis gently pushed him away toward a bench, “Sit…call Gladio and Prompto to come pick you up…”

As he turned away he heard Noct speak, “You’re gonna be great…just…breathe.”

Ignis looked back at him giving him a sturdy nod before turning back and taking off in a run. Every single step felt like fire began coursing through him. He didn’t know how to be a father…his was taken from him when he was young.

Not that his father hadn’t done well…but he remembered Roderick. His father was kind and gentle, but always seeking the truth and never giving up to find it. Brief images of riding his shoulders through their home, a proud smile, dancing in the kitchen…

He burst into the Citadel rushing to the stairs feeling his legs beginning to burn. As he pushed the door open, he heard a loud wail and he felt his stomach drop. He walked forward pushing through people standing in the hall. Nurses, doctors, patients…

“Y/N…” He heard Dr. Reed speaking, “Y/N you have to calm down…”

“What’s going on?” Ignis pushed forward and a nurse intercepted him as Dr. Reed turned around, “Dr. Reed…”

“Mr. Scientia…” Dr. Reed stepped close to him, “There’s been a…complication…”

“Complication…” Ignis eyes jumped to the open door as something crashed inside and you let out another groan, “Y/N!?”

Dr. Reed put his hands on Ignis’ chest with the nurse, “I can’t let you in there.”

“Ignis…” Your voice sounded weak and scared.

“Get out the way.” Ignis began pushing through them but was held back, “Move!”

“It’s too dangerous!” Dr. Reed raised his voice, “If I let you in there, there is a chance you will not walk out.”

“I don’t care, my wife needs me. Now move.” Ignis voice was low as he glared at the doctor feeling their hands move off him. He adjusted his shirt before stepping into the room.

His eyes widened as the scorch marks on the walls and floor. All the medical equipment was strewn about away from you. You were standing gripping onto the bed railing shaking.

“Y/N…” He began to step forward, but you raised you hand toward him.

“Stay back…” You turned shaking your hair from your sweating face, “…you…you have to leave.”

He stood still staring at you, “Y/N…I will not leave you. Not now…not ever…”

“I-I can’t control it…” You cringed putting you hand to your stomach letting out a painful groan. He took your distracted state to his advantage stepping right over to you. Your eyes opened and you started shaking your head, “No…No Ignis…”

“Shh…” He took your hand tightly in his as his other reached up pushing your hair away from your eyes, “We knew this might happen…”

Your face contorted as tears slipped down your face, “It’s so much worse…it’s so…”

“Shh…” He kissed your forehead, “We’re going to do this together…people with magic have been having babies for thousands of years from your land, you said so yourself.”

You let out another loud guttural groan as contractions came upon you, with it came an uncontrolled spell of chained lighting. It erupted through the floor around them. It was as he expected, his proximity to you protected him from the spell.

“Dr. Reed…” Ignis looked over at the door, “Be ready with everything you need for the baby…we’re doing this alone until we need you…assist with advisements only, do not enter unless I tell you.”

Dr. Reed confirmed as Ignis began turning you toward him have you hold onto his shoulders for support. You hands dug into his shoulders painfully, “I shouldn’t have….done this…mages shouldn’t…there’s too much chaos…I could hurt someone…you…our baby…”

“None of that…you are exactly as you should be…now look at me…” He brushed your hair away from your face, “You’re strong…”

“No…” You shut your eyes hanging your head again.

He lifted your chin looking into your eyes, “Yes. The strongest person I know. You fell through worlds, lost everyone and everything you ever knew, adjusted to an insane new lifestyle…with insane new people.”

“Y/N…you don’t remember but you traveled in time itself to save your family…the one we’re starting here and now…” He pressed his forehead against yours and smiled, “For a daughter we will one day have…so believe me when I say, you can do this.”

“Ignis…ooo….” You balled up his shirt in your hands as another contraction overtook you.

“It’s time.” Dr. Reed spoke from the doorway, “You’re going to have to push…I…I suggest laying down…”

“No…” You shook your head, “No…I…”

“It’s alright…we can stand…” He looked around the room before helping you toward a chair, “Brace yourself on this…I’ll need to be below to catch him.”

You nodded as you took in a deep shuddered breath grabbing onto the chair with one hand, “If…”

“I won’t let it come to that.” He took your other hand pressing it to his lips shutting his eyes. You wanted him to put you under if it came to it. You had researched c-sections, and even Dr. Reed had considered it but felt your concerns weren’t merited.

He could see Dr. Reed was reconsidering his position as he looked back as he reached for some gloves, “Doctor?”

“Ignis, you’ll need to reach up and check her cervix…based on her contractions…I’m positive she’s ready, but to be sure… insert two fingers…” He walked Ignis through what he was and wasn’t supposed to feel. Based on what was described back to him Dr. Reed confirmed full dilation, “The next time you feel a contraction you need to bear down…deep breath…and push…Ignis you’re going to see the head first…and gravity will probably work quickly.”

Ignis looked up at you as begin letting out quick short breaths trying you best to remain in control, “Darling…we do it now…just let go and think of Ulric.”

You nodded as you adjusted as the contraction wracked your body. He saw the immense strain you began to put on yourself as you pushed letting out a warrior’s scream. He could indeed see you taking down hordes of demons and dragons for those you loved in that moment. The moment you were becoming a mother, the joining a league of strongest forces the universe could create. His focus shifted quickly from your face to the small life beginning to join them in this world.

The process repeated. He hardly acknowledged the lights shattering above them as the storm you let loose raged everywhere around them. His heartbeat was so loud as he couldn’t hear his voice as he instructed you for one final push.

Then everything happened so fast…he was holding his crying son in his hands. Tears flooded into his eyes as he spoke, “He’s here…he’s here…”

“He…Ig…Ignis…” You looked back at them both.

Ignis saw your small smile before your legs started to give out. With precision reflexes he was up catching you with his one arm, “Y/N…”

“Go, go!” He heard behind him as he set your tired form into the chair. Nurses and Dr. Reed rushed into the room around them.

One nurse made eye contact with him taking his son from him to be examined. His eyes went back to you as they carefully lifted you to the bed. Dr. Reed confirmed everything had gone well as you began to come back eyes cracking back open when Ulric began to cry.

“…mm…my baby…” You reached up weakly and Ignis took your hand.

“He’s right here…just one more moment.” He whispered moving in to kiss your forehead, “You did so well my love.”

“Here we go…” A smiling nurse came back holding Ulric in a clean blanket as he cried, “meet your momma…”

Tears flooded his Ignis’ eyes again as you were handed him. Instantly his son’s cries disappeared as you pressed your cheek against his head, and the most miraculous sight occurred. A spell he’d only ever seen you use once to save everyone in battle rushed over everyone in the room.

Every nerve that had been set afire calmed in his body as tingling warmth replaced it. He felt energy being restored, as did everyone else who had their anxiety shooting through the roof. A knight’s resurgence…a revival.

You looked up at him as the calm feeling fell over everyone in the room, “Ignis…he’s wonderful…”

“He is…” A nurse handed him some towels to clean up before he leaned back to his family touching and kissing them both, “You both are…”

After sometime everyone shuffled around before taking Ulric back to be put in the nursery to give you time to be tended to. Before you were wheeled away you grabbed his arm, “Don’t leave him…”

There was such fear in your eyes, he could not refuse you. He followed the nurse down the hall looking in the bassinet at his perfect creation. Having no traditional facilities yet, they had converted a small office into the nursery.

“Would you like to hold him again, dad?” The nurse smiled at Ignis as she finished reswaddling him.

“I…” He wasn’t really given the option as she placed the boy back in his arms. He choked up looking at him, “I love you…I love you so much.”

Ulric fussed a little as he brought him up kissing his little hands. Staring at him made all time seem to stop that he didn’t notice three onlookers standing in the doorway until he heard the sound of a shutter. He looked up seeing Prompto snapping photos grinning just as big as the other two.

“How long have you been there?” Ignis walked over to them.

Noctis beamed up at him, “Oh…just fifteen minutes or so…”

“You should have said something.” Ignis bobbed his arms up and down as Ulric began to move a little, “But that’s beside the point…everyone…meet Ulric.”

“Wow…” Gladio whispered reaching over touching Ignis’ arm gently, “You did good.”

“I’ll say…hey little dude!” Prompto whispered, “I’m your Uncle Prompto…and I’m gonna be your favorite!”

“Nah…his uncle the king will be.” Noct nudged the blonde a little getting everyone to chuckle.

“We got him something.” Gladio stepped out into the hall before coming back inside holding a bag.

Ignis watched as the boys smirked at him before pulling out a book, “Oh…well it’s a little early…”

“Well in time he’s gonna want to know about everything…this is just a fun way to do it.” Gladio stepped in opening the book to show Ignis, “It’s yours and Y/N’s story minus some parts, plus others…see…”

Ignis looked at a beautifully illustrated child’s book showing how you met them all including Nyx, but everyone was drawn in a cartoonish way. Gladio flipped through it and it showed you both going on a date in Altissia, then fighting side by side to save Noct all the way leading up to being brought home.

“It’s wonderful…thank you…” He looked at them all before turning to Noctis who had nonstop been staring at the small child in his arms since he walked over, “Would you like to hold him?”

“Oh I…” Noct began to shake his head.

“There is no one I would trust more with son.” Ignis told him gently handing him over, “Support his head…”

Noct looked at Ulric and smiled before looking at Ignis, “So how’s it feel? We heard it was a special type of delivery.”

Ignis sat down looking up at them, “I never anticipated delivering him myself…but I can’t imagine doing it any other way…When I held him…it was…it was like everything inside me began to reset and reform…there’s really no words…except that I love him. I love him and I would do anything for him.”

He lifted his glasses off his face wiping the sudden tears away as the boys crowded around him in support. Everything was finally right in the world. Everything was just as it should be…

[bgn846]

Worthy Chapter 3: Connections FFXV A/B/O Promnis

<Previous Chapter 2

“My money’s on the dark haired one with the sharp nose,” Ardyn idly commented from his position standing next to Ignis.

 “I believe she tried last year. Do you think she’d be foolish enough to repeat her failure?”

 Ardyn snorted softly and raised an eyebrow.  “Of course she’ll try again. She wants the title of queen.”

 “I can tell you with certainty that Gladio won’t let her within ten feet of Noctis.  Lady Pravus is known to be quite clingy.”

 “We shall see,” Ardyn offered as they watched.

 Ignis had managed to take a small break before Noct’s speech and had found a quiet spot to rest near a large potted plant.  Ardyn had spotted him immediately and had gone over to fraternize. Ardyn usually never made an appearance at large social gatherings, but this was his one exception.  Each year he would make bets with Ignis regarding who would vie for the prince’s attention.

 It had turned into sport at this point.  Noct was very secretive about who he liked, which left the general public always on the hunt for details.  Without fail, every banquet featured throngs of suiters working to woo Noct. All attempts ended in failure, but some did get close enough to earn a dance or maybe even a peck on the cheek.  This is what Ardyn and he bet on: how close they could get to Noctis and what they would do.

  Ignis considered Ardyn to be eccentric.  He was supposed to be Regis’ older brother, though Ignis doubted the authenticity of that claim.  They looked nothing alike, and Ardyn had control over a more powerful magic than the king. He’d seen it in use once. The king’s magic was blue. Ardyn’s was red.

 Noct had told him once that Ardyn had been inside the crystal.   The advisor wasn’t sure he wanted to believe that tale. Eos had been at peace for over one hundred years.  The scourge that had plagued their realm had been banished by the oracle many decades ago. Whatever reason Arydn would have for even attempting to commune with the crystal was unknown.

 The man beside him seemed quite content to potter around the citadel and scare new crownsguard recruits. He lived his life like a never ending vacation, though when Noct was born, he rapidly turned into the doting uncle.  That was part of the reason Ignis was so comfortable around him.

 From the tender age of seven Ignis had been by Noct’s side, as he was slated to be his future advisor.  So he’d naturally been included in the many games of hide and seek and chess with Uncle Ardyn. Where others found him creepy, Ignis merely looked to him as a silly older brother.

 “She’s going in for the kill.” Ardyn interjected quietly.  “I say she gets stopped within five feet.”

 Ignis sighed; he knew Gladio would intercept her, but she was tricky, if he remembered anything from last year.  “She’ll get stopped but manage to touch his arm.”

 “Oh, you think she’ll manage a connection. This      will     be interesting.”      

 Ardyn and he watched as a polished-looking woman in an expensive gown approached the prince.  Lady Saeva Pravus was from Altissia and born into a well-to-do family. However, their money had begun to run out, and she was actively looking for a wealthy mate.   Most avoided her advances, but others were blinded by her beauty, unaware that she had a terrible temperament and a mean streak equal to a raging behemoth.  

 It was this vile creature that was making her way toward the crown prince of Lucis with a determined gait.   Sure enough Gladio, intercepted her, but a second later he had his eyes screwed shut in pain and had been side-stepped.

 Ignis made to leave his position to lend aid, but Ardyn stopped him.  “If she had done something truly deemed a threat, Gladio would have called out.  She’s most likely thwacked him with the back of her hand.”

 “In his nuts?!” Ignis hissed.  He was agitated by the very idea of someone behaving that way at a fancy dress party.

 “Do keep in mind that Gladio chose not to harm a drunk crown citizen years ago.  The man made an advance at Noct with a blade, no less, and he left him unharmed. Of course, she would use this information to her advantage.”

 Bless the shield for being in control of his emotions, because he certainly could have used force after being treated in such a manner.  Ignis scowled as he watched Lady Pravus continue on her way to Noct with Gladio stiffly following. Neither of them could hear the exchange of words, but the prince bore an angry glare.

 The conversation lasted only a minute, and then she reached out, preparing to touch Noct’s arm.  Ignis was both proud and slightly upset with the prince’s next action. He held up his hand and sneezed.  This, in turn, stopped Lady Pravus in her tracks, her hand hovering in midair. She waivered, clearly uncertain of whether to continue or not; it appeared she didn’t want to get near him.  Perhaps this woman, for all her gusto, was afraid of germs.

 Noct scrunched up his face to unload another sneeze.  Lady Pravus bowed quickly and stepped away, nearly tripping over Gladio as she fled.   “I was not expecting that,” Ignis admitted after a moment.

 “You owe me,” Ardyn trilled.

 “That I do, though I’m proud of his efforts to shoo her away despite my lost bet.  She is a terrible woman.”

 “Should we go see if the crown prince is coming down with a cold?”

 “Hmmm, yes, that sounds like a splendid idea,”  Ignis replied.

     --

  Noct had readied himself for a third sneeze when he felt Gladio’s hand on his shoulder.

 “She’s gone,” he spit out. “You can stop sneezing.”  

 “What the hell did she do to you?  Step on your toe with her pointy shoe?” Noct asked with concern as he brought his hand down.   “Whatever it was, looked like it hurt.”

 “Talk to my manhood about it later,” he grumbled with a wince.

 “Ow.  She must use that move a lot to have caught you off guard.”

 “Yeah, it was practiced alright.  Good thing I’m trained well enough to not toss her rude ass across the room.”

 “I wouldn’t have minded that. She gives me the creeps.”

 The sound of brisk footsteps filling the air caused Gladio to turn quickly. He heaved a sigh of relief when he saw who was approaching. “Did you see the snake?” the shield asked in a whisper.

 “I’m afraid I did.” Ignis offered as he nodded to them both.   “Noct, I will say you made me lose my wager, but I’m proud of your evasion efforts this year.  Very well done.”

 Smiling Noct took the praise from his advisor and held his head a little higher.  “Who do you think her next victim will be?”

 “Oh dear.” Ardyn hummed.  “It appears she has decided the king of Niflheim will suit her needs.”

 “King Alban isn’t exactly a nice guy, but I’m not sure he deserves her attention either,” Noct muttered. “I still don’t understand why he doesn’t bring his own guard when he visits.”

 “He and Captain Drautos are friends, Highness,” Ignis added dryly.  “Hence his reason for ‘forgetting’ to secure his security detail every year he visits.”

 “Well, it’s dumb. If Drautos likes him so much, why doesn’t he move to Niflheim?”

 “His chances at rising to a position of power are greater in Lucis,” Ardyn commented calmly.  “Some people are after simple things.”

 Noct frowned at the thought.  It wasn’t exactly comforting to think someone so close to the royal family would be so open in their aspirations.  That, however, was Drautos to a T. “Oh, she’s trying to talk to him – ew, she’s going for the arm grab.”

 “Touch is a normal way to show one’s emotions, Noct. I don’t see why it bothers you so much,” Ignis huffed.

 “Still gross and not my thing.”

 The four of them watched in silence as Lady Pravus firmly latched onto King Alban’s arm and led him around the party.  Unable to hear what was being said, they lost interest after a while. The conversation unfortunately started back again regarding his upcoming speech.  Noct hated to talk in front of others. He’d been trained well enough to hide his disdain, but it didn’t make it any easier.

 Soon the time approached, and he was ushered toward the stage.   Ignis gave him a pat on the back and nearly shoved him up the last few steps.  His advisor knew he didn’t want to talk, so it was a struggle each time.

 Thankfully, he survived his efforts, and within ten minutes he was back safely hiding behind his shield.   “Gladio, how much longer do I have to stay here. I want to go back and hang out with Prompto.”

 “Not up to me, buddy. We gotta ask Iggy,” he offered with an understanding smile.

 Ignis strolled up a second later and stared at him hard.  “You want to bail already, don’t you?” he asked.

 “Is it that obvious?”

 “Terribly,”  Ignis said wryly.  “Perhaps the migraine you will suddenly be afflicted with in the next minute will force you to return to your chambers and rest.”

 “Gladio.” Noct hissed. “He’s being nice to me because of Prompto isn’t he?”

 The shield shrugged and smiled.  “So, are you going to take advantage of it or not?”

 “Ow, my head, it aches.  Please, someone accompany me to my quarters. I must rest.”

 Ignis smiled and squeezed Noct’s arm as Gladio herded him towards the exit.  “Do take care and let me know if you need anything.”

 They made it out in the hallway easily, considering most people didn’t dare stop Gladio when he appeared set in his ways.   Once they were away from the people, Noct ducked under Gladio’s arm and leaned into his side. “That lady was so icky.”

 The shield hummed noncommittally and hugged him closer.  “Only a few more months, and you can make an official announcement.”

 “I know, but I still wish I could tell everyone now.”

 “And risk the wrath of Iggy? Oh no, I’m not dealing with that.   He wants you to wait until your twentieth birthday, and then you can tell whomever you like.”

 Noct whined again but dropped the subject.  He knew his advisor was always right when it came to matters like this.  “Do you want to stay and hang out a little?” the prince tried as they neared the suite.

 “Nah, I promised Sana I’d call her tonight. She wanted to hear about the party.”

 “Be sure to tell her how I got rid of icky pants. I know she’ll laugh at that.”

 Gladio snickered and shook his head.  “That will be the highlight, considering what she did to me to get to you!”

 Noct pushed the heavy door open to the suite and laughed when Gladio stood waiting for him to close the door.  The prince, for once, would have liked being able to wave goodbye as people left his suite, but not when that someone was his bodyguard.   Gladio would always wait for him to close the door, and then he’d leave. It felt wrong, but the shield didn’t seem to mind; he took it as part of the job description.

 A bubbly laugh caught Noct’s attention as he walked toward the living room.   He could barely hear, but it appeared Prompto was talking to someone. Nervous that there was another person in the suite, he snuck up to the door and peered in.  Prompto was alone and talking on the phone.

 “I’m really ok. Trust me, mum.  Prince Noctis is nice, and he likes the same things as me.” The blond paused for a minute.  “Yeah, I don’t think that plan will work anymore – no, he’s an alpha, mum.”

 Noct instantly became worried. What kind of plan had Prompto been trying to enact?

 His downtrodden voice came back a few seconds later.  “I didn’t even ask. They are really close, and I know he wouldn’t leave the prince.”  

 Leave?  Who the heck was Prompto talking about? He’d only met two alphas: Gladio and Ignis.  Noct wasn’t sure which one Prompto was referring too.

 “Muuum,” Prompto whined suddenly. “Seriously, I can’t ask. They are happy. He wouldn’t want to leave, trust me.  No matter how much money the position paid.”

 Noct was still terribly confused.  Prompto had neither an advisor nor a shield, so it was unclear which thing he desired more.

 “I was scared at first, but he’s been really nice.  Noct even thinks he’s being nicer than normal.”

 Ok, that clinched it. Prompto was talking about Ignis.  So that was the reason the omega prince had stowed away.  He wanted to offer Ignis a job as his advisor.

 “I don’t know why I didn’t realize he was the alpha. I feel kinda stupid that I didn’t know.  I mean, it might be better. I like hanging out with Prince Noctis. I don’t think I could handle it if he were an alpha.”

 The guilt of eavesdropping finally caught up to Noct’s brain, and he silently backed away.  Opting to slam a closet door and shout hello, he hoped Prompto would hear him coming.      

 “Hey Noct!” he shouted.  “I’m on the phone with my mum, hold on,” he added once Noct rounded the corner.

 “I gotta go, mum. I’ll be home tomorrow, kay?  I love you.” He finished as he waited for what Noct assumed was a similar message.

 “Sorry, she called to check on me, so I filled her in on my adventure so far.”    

 “No worries.  You’ll be home soon, so I’m sure that will make her feel better.”

 Prompto nodded in agreement.  “Hey, I thought you were going to be gone longer. What happened?”

 “I got bored and I finished my speech, so Iggy let me skip out early.”

 “I got your text message about that horrible lady. What did she look like?” Prompto asked with excitement.

 “Oh, I took a picture. Wait until you see this piece of work.   She’s an alpha and a total bitch.” Noct watched as Prompto visibly shuddered while he fished his phone out.

 “She’s really pretty,” Prompto announced, surprised.  “I thought she’d be ugly.”

 “Nope. Only on the inside, apparently, otherwise how would she trap all her potential mates?”

 “What’s her name again?”

 “Lady Saeva Pravus - or snake lady as Gladio likes to call her. Ya know, because she lies in wait until you least suspect it and then strikes!”  Noct yelled with a fake hiss.

 Prompto burst out in laughter.  “So she tried to hit on you too?”

 “I don’t know what it was. She just wants a title.  I sneezed on her, though, and she booked it after that.”

 The blond looked at Noct, bewildered. “You sneezed on her?!”

 “Well, yeah, I can’t tell her to go away, and I can’t make nasty faces, so sneezing made the most sense.  It’s not rude, and it doesn’t get me in trouble. Everyone sneezes.” Noct smiled. He’d truly enjoyed seeing her face when he tried the move.  She’d gone pale and couldn’t get away fast enough. “I do need to warn you, though, that she went straight after your step-brother once she’d abandoned me.”

 “Who, Alban? He’s terrible. I’m sure she’ll give up once she sees how awful he is,” Prompto mused.

 “I hope so. I wouldn’t want that lady to be part of your already crazy family.”

 Noct showed Prompto more photos and the remainder of the evening was spent talking and playing video games.

    --

   Ignis couldn’t help but continually check the rear view mirror as they drove to the airfield. The omega had been busy texting nonstop once Ignis had collected him from Noct’s suite.   The advisor suspected he was chatting with Noct. They’d hit it off quite well during his short stay. The prince of Lucis had actually hugged the boy goodbye. Noct didn’t do that sort of thing unless he really liked someone.

 A small noise caught the advisors attention and he looked again to Prompto.  The blond took a deep breath and seemed to be working on speaking clearly. “Noct said I could ask you what the plan is for after we arrive.”

 “Certainly, Highness,” Ignis agreed.  “I’ve arranged a dropship to take you back home.  It will be piloted by a trusted crownsguard member.  Nyx will travel with you and escort you to a location of your choosing once you land.”  

 “Nyx will be with me the whole trip?” Prompto asked to double check.

 “Yes, unless you order him away.”

 Prompto shook his head violently and dropped his eyes.  “Um, if something unexpected happens what should I do? Can I call someone?”

 “I’ll give you my number, just in case, and that way you can alert me to your safe arrival.”  Ignis peered in the rear view mirror quickly and saw a blush forming on the prince’s pale face.  “Unless you’d rather solely communicate with Noctis.”

 “I want your number,” Prompto blurted out, and then he groaned and buried his face in his hands.

 Ignis tried not to smile, and he could tell that Nyx was working equally hard to not giggle.  The poor omega was not used to dealing with other people.

 “Excellent. That will ensure you have several avenues of contact should you need it,” Ignis added, hoping the prince would calm down.

 Soon afterward, Ignis turned into the airfield and began slowly driving on the access road towards the dropship.  They were nearly there when Prompto made a strangled noise and threw himself down on the floor of the back seat.

 The smell changed immediately, and Ignis could tell Prompto was terrified.  “Highness, what’s wrong? Is there a threat nearby?” he asked as the car slowed to a stop.

 “Those – those men,” he stuttered.  “Over by that building. They were here when I landed, and they were hunting for me. Please, they can’t find me. They’ll do bad things.”

 “You are safe with us, Highness. Please try to calm down,”  Ignis soothed in a low voice.

 Prompto whined and continued to cower in the back seat. “They’ll smell me again and try to take me away.  We have to leave.”

 It hurt Ignis to think that Prompto had to deal with this on a regular basis and that his only option was to run away and hide.  “We have business to conduct, Highness, and you have every right to be here as well. We will ensure you get home safely. Please try to trust us,” the advisor tried again.

 Prompto seemed to be mulling over what Ignis had just told him, and he stayed silent.  Nyx spoke up next in an effort to help. “Kiddo, you’ve got two highly-trained crownsguard with you. Those nasty guys won’t stand a chance.”

 Surprisingly, Prompto lifted his head slightly with a confused look and questioned. “Two guards?  Is there another car with us?”  

 “No, Iggy is a trained fighter, just like me.” Nyx replied.

 Turning in his seat, Ignis looked straight into Prompto’s blue eyes and held his gaze.  “I can assure you no one will hurt you.”

 Prompto appeared to short circuit for a moment.   Ignis wasn’t aware of the time passing until Nyx cleared his throat.  “They are walking away. I think we can continue on.”

 “Hmmm? Oh, wonderful,” Ignis murmured. “Are you ready, Highness?”

 Prompto carefully peered up in between the front seats.  He was looking for the men who’d tormented him earlier. When he seemed satisfied that they’d gone, he nodded and took his seat again. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to delay us.”

 “Nothing to be sorry about, Highness,” Ignis offered.

 “Yeah, alphas can be scary and just plain stinky sometimes,” Nyx added with a smirk.

 “Ulric!” Ignis hissed. “Don’t fill the poor boy’s head with nonsense.”

 “He knows I’m trying to make a joke, right Highness?” Nyx asked as he craned his neck to catch a glance of Prompto.

 The blond finally smiled and nodded slightly.

 “Astrals, you two will be the death of me,” Ignis lamented as he pulled up next to an older model dropship.  “I do expect a full report once you’ve landed in Niflheim, and do alert me to any oddities.”

 “Understood. I’ll go check and make sure we are ready to go, and then we’ll be off. Wait here,” Nyx announced as he exited the car.

 The second the door shut, Prompto’s voice squeaked out from the backseat.  “Uh – don’t forget to give me your number.”  

 Ignis recited his number and waited for Prompto to send him a text to ensure it had been copied correctly.  “Do remember to let me know if you need anything. I don’t care how trivial you may think it. Please don’t hesitate to contact me.”

 Prompto nodded his head vigorously and bit his lip.  “Thanks for helping me. I don’t know what I would have done.”

 Ignis offered the blond a smile.  “It was no trouble; please know you are welcome as a guest of the prince of Lucis anytime.” The advisor was trying mightily not to think of what would have happened if Prompto’s step brothers had discovered him.  The outcome would have been vastly different.

 He was about to add more when Nyx came back and lightly tapped on the window.  Prompto looked out at him and slowly reached for the door handle. “Thanks again. I hope I get to come back and visit soon.”  

 Ignis nodded his goodbye, and Prompto opened the door and left the vehicle.  The strange empty feeling was threatening to return as he watched the young man walk away.  What was it about this omega that he felt such a draw to? He waited for the dropship to close its doors and take off, unwilling to drive away until he couldn’t see it anymore in the distance.

 He sent a quick message to Nyx asking for updates.  Thankfully, the man didn’t question his desires and sent him a message back.   Prompto was fine - why wouldn’t he be? He was going home and he would live out his life. That was that.

>Next Chapter 4

[echoes-of-the-clockwork]

Book One: Gold (Prompto x Reader) Chapter XVIII

A/n: As you may know, I don't do lemons. However, I don't mind doing spicy scenes. Hopefully I'm somewhat good at writing such scenes to add some more intimate moments in this series. Love you all!!! ••••••••••••••••••••

After securing rooms at the Leville, the group searched the city for Maagho. With help from some strangers, they hopped aboard a gondola and traveled the canals of Altissia until they arrived at their destination. Walking into the bar, they were greeted by the man behind the counter. "Welcome to Accordo, lass and lads. Cid mentioned you'd be dropping in. Weskham Armaugh, as you've gathered. Never would've expected you boys to be traveling with a guardian."

(Y/n) tensed slightly. She knew not everyone was welcoming to her kind and some would even shun them. "I hope I'm not unwanted."

The man shook his head, placing the glass he was cleaning down on the countertop. "Nonsense, my lady. Spirits are welcome here. In fact, a couple of my regulars are guardians."

The girl was relieved to hear she was welcomed at Maagho. Her tense muscles relaxed as she wandered around the bar, admiring its layout and peaceful atmosphere while Noctis chatted with Weskham. She found herself near the canal, looking out towards the beautiful city. It's been months since she and the others had been in such a large city.

The view was breathtaking and she was itching to explore. She tilted her head slightly, watching a gondola drift by with a couple on it. She immediately looked away when they began kissing each other. She placed a hand over her mouth, gobsmacked at how the couple didn't care who saw them kiss.

Suddenly, (Y/n) dropped her hand from her mouth and jumped slightly when she felt someone poke her side. Looking to her left, she spotted the culprit smiling at her. "I thought you'd be chatting with Weskham, Prom."

"The guys can handle that. Just wanted to see how you're doing," Prompto said.

"I'm great. The need to explore is becoming overwhelming and I'm itching to see what all Altissa has to offer."

"Me too! I am so gonna blow up my camera with pictures while we're here. I probably should've brought an extra memory card..." He looked across the canal for a second before crossing his arms behind his head. He tapped the heel of his right boot against the ground. "So, about our date..."

"What about it?" She inquired.

"Since the sun's already setting, how does tomorrow sound?"

"Sounds fine to me. Guess we'll "wing it"," the girl giggled.

"Aw, yeah! We're gonna have the best time!"

The sound of heels clacking against the hardwood floor caught their attention. The couple turned around just as a woman walks into Maagho with guards following behind her. Weskham greets her, knowing exactly who she was. "My dear Camelia, it's been a while."

"I heard about your distinguished guests," she explained.

"Ah, you've an ear for gossip."

Camelia then turned her attention to Noctis, Gladio, and Ignis. "Gentlemen, I won't waste your time. My name is Camelia Claustra."

Ignis was familiar with her position. "First secretary of the Accordo Protectorate."

"You should know we have Lady Lunafreya in our care. And the empire demands we surrender her."

Noctis' eyes widen at the news. "What?"

"Yet I am loath to acquiesce unless we stand to profit. Hence I've come to discuss terms...with the King of Lucis. If you've a mind to talk, come to my estate," the first secretary said. Her gaze moved away from the three and landed on (Y/n). She took note of the girl's slitted eyes and gemstone. "You're the guardian the empire is searching for."

Prompto tensed up beside the girl while Noctis stood up and asked, "There a problem?"

"None whatsoever. I'll pretend I never saw her." With that, Camelia left with her guards.

Once she was gone, Weskham addressed the group. "She can be oblique at the best of times, but I assure you her heart is in the right place."

Prompto was relieved, the tension leaving his body. "Oh. Okay."

"At any rate, you must be weary from your journey. Might I suggest you seek your beds for now and ponder matters anew in the morning?"

Noctis sighed in exhaustion. "Yeah, think we'll do just that."

They left the bar and headed back to the Leville. As they walked into the lobby of the hotel, they encountered Gentiana. (Y/n) was unfamiliar with the woman, but she had the same presence as Umbra. Prompto told her the woman was another divine messenger of the Astrals. After she shared her message about the uncertainty of the future, she vanished.

The spirit kept her gaze glued to where Gentiana once stood. She was so focused on the divine messenger that she didn't realize Noctis, Gladio, and Ignis already headed upstairs. She removed herself from her deep thoughts just as someone tugged on her hand. She looked over to see Prompto was trying to nudge her in the direction of the stairs. She smiled at him and they headed up to their room. The couple was grateful to have a separate room.

Inside the room, it was at that moment they realized they had yet to eat. Prompto took it upon himself to order them room service. They patiently waited for the food to arrive, their stomachs growling seemingly in unison. When their meals did arrive, it wasn't long before the food was gone.

After eating, (Y/n) headed into the bathroom to take a quick shower. She scrubbed the small amount of filth off her body before lathering it with soap and her hair with shampoo. Once cleaned, she stepped out of the shower and dried herself off. As she did, that's when she noticed how dirty her clothes were. She pouted, knowing she needed to clean her outfit. That's when her predicament arose.

Unlike the boys, she didn't have a spare outfit. An idea came to mind and she doubt Prompto would refuse. Poking her head out of the bathroom, she casted an innocent smile in the blonde's direction. "Hey, Prom? Could I borrow a shirt for tonight?"

Prompto's head snapped up. His brain was trying to process her question. "Borrow a...shirt?"

"That's what I said."

He flushed slightly before setting down his camera and searching for his spare tank top. When he found it, he walked over to the bathroom and handed it to her. His cheeks were still red, mumbling a small "mhm" to her minuscule "thank you" when she took the tank top from him. He returned to the bed as she closed the bathroom door.

With Prompto's tank top on, (Y/n) used the bathtub to wash her clothes. She hung them to dry after gently scrubbing the dirt and blood from the fabric. Before leaving the bathroom, she tugged the tank top lower so it reached just above her knees. Smiling, she strolled out of the bathroom and sat on the foot of the bed beside Prompto. She knew he was staring at her the moment she left the bathroom, but pretended not to notice. Gathering her damp (h/c) locks in one hand, she combed her other one through them while humming.

After suffering in silence for a couple minutes, (Y/n) built up the courage to turn and face Prompto. "So, about our date tomorrow. I know we said we were gonna wing it, but maybe—ah!" A yelp escaped her lips at the feeling of being yanked further onto the bed by her arm and pinned down on the mattress. She stared up into a pair of cerulean eyes, her breath hitching in her throat. The tank top she was wearing rolled up slightly from the sudden change in position, exposing her bare thighs.

Prompto was perched on all fours. His hands were on either side of her head and his knees were between her legs. He could feel a sudden wave of heat consume every fiber of his being from simply just seeing her in his spare tank top. His gaze was full of want and need, hands fisting the sheets. One of his hands gravitated towards her cheek, his fingers caressing her soft skin. His fingers trailed down her cheek and neck before coming to a stop near her collarbone. He bit his bottom lip, but he was unable to hold back the shaky breath he was trying to suppress.

Not once had he broken eye contact with (Y/n) as his fingers danced across her body. Removing his hand from her collarbone, Prompto placed it against her exposed thigh. His fingers traced circles along her outer left thigh before moving upwards. They snaked underneath the tank top and stopped just below the hem of her panties.

Her chest rose and fell as she enjoyed his gentle touch. She fought back a pleasurable moan when his fingers stopped dangerously close to her core. She swallowed hard, stopping any pleasurable noises that threatened to slip from her lips. "Wh-What's gotten into you all of a sudden?" She gasped loudly when one of his fingers slid into her panties.

Prompto ceases his actions to answer her question. "Do you even realize how amazing you look in my tank top? You're like a present that needs to be unwrapped. I should've let you worn it sooner." Using his free hand, he pushed himself up and sat on his knees between her legs. Removing his finger from her underwear, he snaked his hands underneath her thighs and pulled her closer. A shriek of surprise emitted from her throat as her thighs now rested against the sides of his hips. With his hands firmly grasping her thighs, he bent over to close the distances between their faces.

When Prompto's face was a few inches from (Y/n)'s, she raised her hands and cupped his cheeks. She trailed her thumbs across his cheekbones, smiling at him. "A present, huh? Maybe I should wear your clothes more often."

"Please do," he whimpered before kissing her passionately. His fingernails dug into her thighs, but not enough to hurt her.

(Y/n) tilted her head and slightly opened her mouth at feeling the warmth of his tongue protrude from his lips and trail across her own. As his tongue slipped into her mouth and danced with her own, she moved her hands from his cheeks to his hair. Her finger entangled in his blonde locks, tugging slightly as the kiss grew even more heated.

Breaking the kiss a minute later, both panted slightly as their foreheads rested against each other's. Because of the intoxicating kiss, both their bodies felt sapped of energy. It also didn't help they had a long day of traveling. Prompto leant forward too far when he tried to claim her lips a second time and cried out as his body fell. He tried to stop from falling onto (Y/n), but he couldn't do it in time. His body smooshed hers against the mattress, face buried against her chest just above her cleavage.

The girl wasn't in any pain and could only laugh. "You really are a klutz, Prom."

Prompto breathes out a sigh, his warm breath grazing her skin. He felt her shudder slightly and chuckled. "It's part of my charm."

"It sure is," she continued to laugh. Gently, she wrapped one arm around his back and used her other hand to cradle his head against her chest. "It's one of the many things I love about you."

Smiling warmly, Prompto felt a couple tears of joy fall from his eyes. "I love you, (Y/n)." He wound his arms around her torso and closed his eyes, nuzzling his nose against her collarbone.

She cranes her neck down a little ways and kissed the top of his head, stroking his hair in the process. "I love you too, Prom. Let's get some sleep."

Adjusting their position, they flipped to lay on their sides. Prompto's face was still buried in (Y/n)'s chest with his arms wound securely around her waist. She kept one arm around his back with her other hand cradling the back of his head. Within minutes, the couple was fast asleep.

<——————————————<<<<<

The next morning, the group was gathered in the lobby of the Leville. There, they discussed their plans for the day. Noctis, Gladio, and Ignis would head to Camelia's estate while Prompto and (Y/n) get to spend their free time together by exploring Altissia.

Once splitting ways with the others, the couple wandered around Altissia to see what the city had to offer. The first thing that caught their attention was the Leviathan Monument. The large piece of art was made from warped metal, appearing to be a horned whale. Prompto snapped a few pictures of the sculpture while (Y/n) wandered over to one of the vendors managing a stall nearby. He told her about the wishing tradition and handed her a paper bird, telling her to make a wish before attempting to throw it into the sculpture's mouth.

After making her wish, she carefully aimed the paper bird and threw it in the direction of the statue's agape mouth. She watched with bated breaths as it soared towards the sculpture's mouth, but groaned when a gentle breeze blew through the plaza and knocked it off course. "Dammit..."

Prompto, who'd taken a picture of her, rushed over to the vendor and got two more paper birds. With a smile, he handed her one. Together, they wished before tossing their paper birds. Both sailed through air and directly into the whale's mouth. (Y/n) sighed in relief while Prompto cheered. She nudged him in the side with her elbow, grinning. "You got lucky."

He poked her side, smirking when he heard a small giggle fall from her lips. "No way! That was pure skill!"

"You wish," she scoffed.

The couple exchanged a few more playful words before leaving to continue their adventure through Altissia. They walked down the grand staircase leading up to Leviathan's Monument and were promptly stopped by a young woman. She sat on the bottom step with her artwork on display, her supplies strewn about. "Hey, would you two like to get your portrait drawn?"

Prompto and (Y/n) exchanged glances before agreeing to have their portrait drawn. They stood a few feet away from the woman so she could get a good look at them while she drew. Without thinking, the spirit wound her arms around his left one, hugging it tightly. She rested her head against his shoulder, smiling blissfully. The sharpshooter smiled giddily, cheeks dusted a light pink.

After ten minutes, the artist was done. The couple stepped away from each other to admire the portrait. Prompto grimaced slightly when seeing how big his nose was. Lifting his hand, he traced over his nose. "Is my nose really that big?"

(Y/n) snorted with laughter. "Your nose is fine, Prom." She then turned her attention back to the woman. "How much do we owe you?"

"Oh, please, don't worry about paying me. You two lovebirds go have fun. Altissia has tons to offer," she smiled back at them.

The couple thanked the artist before leaving with their new portrait in hand. Folding it neatly, Prompto put it into his pocket and they wandered through the streets of Altissia. The marksman took tons of photos of the scenery, (Y/n), and even some of them together as they sauntered around the city.

Down one of the streets, they found a young woman running a stall. She was selling a variety of flowers, which interested Prompto. With (Y/n) close behind, he browsed the many types of flowers. The (h/c)-haired girl was entranced with the flowers after smelling one with (f/c) petals. "Oh, wow! That smells amazing! It's sweet yet refreshing. And the color is beautiful."

Hearing that was all Prompto needed. He handed over a small amount of gil for a single (f/c) flower. The vendor thanked him, hading over a single flower. (Y/n) watched her boyfriend closely as he snapped a portion of the stem off. "What're you doing, Prom?"

"This." Standing in front of her, Prompto combed a few strands of her (h/c) locks behind her right ear. He then placed the (f/c) flower in her hair, smiling gently at her. "Y'know, (f/c) really suits you."

She gently patted the flower before asking, "Should I invest in a (f/c) dress, then?"

He grabbed her hand, frantically nodding. "Please do! I've never seen you in a dress and I think you'd look amazing in one."

She chortled. "I'll think about it."

Hand in hand, their next stop was going to be Maagho. It was a little past one in the afternoon and neither of them had ate breakfast. They figured the bar they'd visit yesterday would be the perfect place to have lunch.

After filling their bellies with Weskham's delicious food, the couple decided to wrap up their lengthy date with a peaceful gondola ride around Altissia. As they were waiting for another gondola to arrive, they were approached by a strange man. He grabs (Y/n)'s shoulders and squeezes tightly, causing her two wince. "You have to leave!" He shook her, resulting in the flower to fall out of her hair.

Prompto saw the pain on her face and hastily intervened. He pried the man's hands off her shoulders and stood in front of her. "Whoa there, buddy! Can you not touch her?"

The stranger then grabs the front of Prompto's shirt. "You're her master, right? Please, you must get her out of Altissia. It isn't safe for spirits to be in the city."

"What're you talking about?" (Y/n) inquired. She examined his appearance and saw the ring on his finger. Just like Geralt's, it was black and cracked. Her eyes widen in shock. "You had a guardian?"

The man nodded his head, tears beginning to pool in his eyes. "Y-Yes... His name was Luca and we were going to get married next month. B-But those damned imperial bastards killed him! They didn't hesitate to kill him in front of me. Th-They took his body a-and fed it to some daemonic beast."

"Daemonic beast?" Prompto muttered.

"The empire's created a monster that devours the corpses of guardians. It consumes their bodies and absorbs their powers."

(Y/n) was becoming suspicious of the man. "You know an awful lot about this "monster". How do you even know about it?"

"I followed them after they dragged Luca's body away. Th-That thing's in Altissia!" He released Prompto and hung his head with a sniffle. "I-I still can't believe he's gone..."

The spirit stepped around her boyfriend and placed a comforting hand on the man's shoulder. "I'm sorry for your loss."

He lifted his head and wiped a few tears away. "Thank you for your kindness. I've taken it upon myself to search Altissia for any guardians. I want to warn them before what happened to Luca happens to them."

"Does this creature have a name?"

"The soldiers called it the "devourer"."

She smiled at the stranger. "Thank you for telling us. I admire your conviction to help my people."

He was able to smile through his tears. "O-Of course. Please, get out of the city before it's too late." The man walked away, running down the street.

When he was gone, Prompto couldn't help but worry. "You really think that monster exists?"

The guardian nodded. "I do. He was clearly distraught and worried about the whole thing. We need to tell the others about this."

"Aaand there goes our romantic gondola ride..." Prompto mumbled with a whine.

She kissed him on the cheek. "We'll have another date soon. Let's get back to the hotel."

Finding the others relaxing in the lobby of the Leville when they returned, Prompto and (Y/n) told them about their encounter with the distraught man and what he told them. Just like the couple, none of them were surprised at the extremes the empire would go just to get what they wanted.

"And that damn thing is here in the city?" Gladio asked.

"That's what the guy said," Prompto replied.

"Can you vouch for this man?" Ignis questioned.

(Y/n) nodded. "Yes. His ring bore the gemstone of a deceased guardian. And by how distraught he was, he was clearly concerned."

"What can we do about it?" Noctis inquired.

"Well...nothing. But at least we know of this daemon's presence and the possible danger it poses."

"This "devourer" only consumes guardians. You are the one at risk, (Y/n)," the strategist stated. "I recommend remaining in the hotel for the time being."

"But what about you guys?" She asked.

"We're just gonna do some exploring before coming back. And I doubt you'll be alone," Noctis stated, eyes roaming over to the blonde standing beside the girl. "Guess you two should just relax here until tomorrow."

"I'm down for that. With the whole rite going down tomorrow, we should relax," Prompto claimed. He grabbed (Y/n)'s hand and tugged her towards the stairs. "You guys have fun!"

"And you two better not have too much fun," Gladio retorted.

The marksman faintly blushed at the shield's words as he headed upstairs with the guardian. They entered the room and closed the door behind them. He flopped down on the bed with a heavy sigh while she went to enjoy the view from the balcony. The boy stared at her back for a few seconds before he lifted his right arm and admired the gemstone bracelet. He twirled it around his wrist a few times, his mind thinking dark thoughts. He imaged the gemstone turning from gold to black before cracking down the middle.

With a startled gasp, he flew up and checked the bracelet closely. Seeing it was fine, he sighed in relief and laid back down on his back. He placed an arm over his eyes, thinking back to what the man had told them earlier. "The devourer, huh...?"

"Sounds kinda creepy," (Y/n) said, sauntering back into the room.

"Sounds hungry," Prompto chuckled. "Just not for food."

"It is unsettling." The guardian sat down on the edge of the bed with a huff. "A daemon capable of devouring spirits and harnessing their power... If it truly has absorbed the magic from guardians, who knows how powerful it is. And it's somewhere in the city."

"Bet the empire has it hidden somewhere," the boy said.

"No doubt. They might use the rite as a distraction to lure out the guardians residing in Altissia. If all hell breaks loose tomorrow, then spirits will do everything they can to protect their masters. That'll make it easier for the empire to find them."

Prompto searches blindly around for her hand. When he found it, he squeezed gently. "I don't know what that thing is capable of, but I won't let it have you."

She smiled down at him. "Tomorrow will be dangerous, but we have each other's backs. We also have the others on our side. Whatever happens, I know all of us will come out alive."

He nodded. "Yeah. Whatever tomorrow brings, all of us will make it through."

Previous Chapter || Next Chapter || Masterlist

[treya-barton]

8. apricity - the warmth of the sun in the winter - for Promptis, please.

Noctis totally didn’t get why Prompto insisted on eating outside on a day like today where they were experiencing a rare cold snap in Insomnia.  Noctis had a jacket on over his school coat and was still freezing as the chill wind sank through his layers of clothing.  And yet Prompto was getting by just fine in his regular winter uniform, no extra coat needed above his school blazer.  Noctis narrowed his eyes at his best friend who was walking slightly ahead of him with one hand behind his head while the other gripped the drink he had just purchased from the vending machine.  Prompto didn’t seem to notice and was instead humming to himself as his eyes scanned ahead for a place for them to sit.  Suddenly, his eyes lit up.

“There!” he shouted, pointing in the distance.  Noctis looked past his hand to see that Prompto was pointing at one of the many trees in the grounds around their school.  He grimaced at the idea of sitting on the ground which was sure to be cold and sap what little warmth he had and begrudgingly followed his best friend while carrying their lunch slung over his shoulder.  Ignis had learned to make enough for both Noctis and Prompto after the prince had noticed the rather meager meals Prompto used to bring to school. They had always been more like snacks – protein bars and raw veggies – and after Noctis had convinced him that what Ignis made was both nutritious and delicious he had finally brought him around to sharing.

As they got closer to the tree, Noctis began to realize there was something a bit different about it. Somehow Prompto had picked a spot that had a sunbeam peeking through the cloudy sky, hitting the tree directly where Prompto was preparing to sit.  The moment Noctis stepped into the sunlight, he took a deep breath as the warmth washed over him.  It was still chilly outside overall, but in the sunlight it was bearable.  “Did you know about this?  Is it why you insisted on coming out here?” Noctis asked, finally sliding his eyes open and catching the flustered look on Prompto’s face as he quickly tore his eyes away and focused on opening his bottle of green tea.

Noctis blushed himself at the attention as he sat down next to him, noting that the ground was chill as he feared but bearable in the sunlight.  It was obvious Prompto had been checking him out in the sunlight, and Noctis wondered what expression he had on his face when he had stepped into the warmth to catch Prompto’s attention like that.  Prompto, meanwhile, looked cute as he always did when he got flustered, and Noctis couldn’t help but sneak a look himself out of the corner of his eye.  He was careful not to get caught staring since it made Prompto incredibly shy.  They were still getting to know each other and Noctis didn’t want to scare him away, even if he thought he was incredibly attractive, especially in moments like this where the sunlight caught his hair causing it to look just as brilliant as the sun itself.  “I may have spotted it from our classroom,” Prompto said, causing Noctis to let out a snort.

“You know, if you spent less time daydreaming, you wouldn’t have to rely on my notes so much,” Noctis teased as he opened their lunch.  He handed a container over to Prompto with a pair of chopsticks before pulling out his own and sliding his own drink from the bag.  Prompto had shot him a dirty look, but he didn’t have a leg to stand on since Noctis was right.  So, instead they ate in silence, enjoying their brief respite alone together.  It was actually kind of nice being away from the rest of the class since no one else was willing to brave the cold to eat outside; any moment Noctis got to spend with Prompto was a special one. Every day Noctis was thankful to finally have a real friend – someone he chose for himself who didn’t work for the Crown.

As Noctis wrapped up his meal he let out a wide yawn before glancing at the time on his phone.  There was still a little time left before class. Noctis glanced at Prompto who was staring off into the distance as he continued to eat, and when he realized the blond wasn’t paying attention he sneakily lay down with his head in his lap. “N-Noct!” Prompto protested, while Noctis closed his eyes, ignoring him with a satisfied grin.  

“Wake me up when it’s time for class,” he replied, and Prompto let out a deep sigh.  Noctis could tell he wasn’t annoyed by it, though, and soon he returned to eating, leaving Noctis to his nap.  Once Noctis began to relax into his nap, he began to realize a few things.  One was that Prompto was warmer than the sun, both literally and figuratively.  Any remaining chill he had been feeling melted away now that he was pressed against his best friend, and he felt himself truly let go, releasing all of the normal tension and worries he kept locked up inside from his day to day life as the Crown Prince of Lucis.  Seeing Prompto was always the highlight of his day since he was the only one that allowed him to feel normal and forget his responsibilities, even if only for a short while.  

As Noctis began to drift off to sleep, he thought he felt timid fingers gently press into his hair, tentatively carding through his locks until Noctis let out grateful sigh that seemed to embolden the touch, allowing it to fall into a steady rhythm.  Noctis fell asleep to the gentle touch, and it wasn’t until awhile later when he suddenly began to feel chilly again that he awoke with a start.  The first thing Noctis noticed was that their sunbeam had fallen behind the clouds again, while the next was that Prompto had also fallen asleep with his head hanging down over him from where it had fallen forward while he dozed.  His fingers were still tangled in his hair and his face looked devoid of his usual nervous energy; he looked peaceful, and Noctis was loath to wake him even if it was beginning to get colder outside.  He glanced at his phone and winced, realizing they had already missed a whole period of class.  He’d probably hear an earful from Ignis later.  Noctis stared up at Prompto, eyes tracing over his features that he usually didn’t get the opportunity to study since Prompto tended to keep moving about when he wasn’t staring out the window during class.

Suddenly Prompto’s head dipped forward in his sleep, which seemed to finally wake him up.  His eyes flew open and he looked around in alarm, obviously trying to orient himself.  Once he realized where he was, he seemed to remember his hand placement and he quickly pulled away his hand from Noctis’s hair.  Noctis tried not to let his disappointment show at the sudden withdrawal, and instead tried to skirt around it so Prompto wouldn’t feel embarrassed at getting caught.  “Looks like someone forgot to wake me up for class,” he teased, while Prompto flushed in embarrassment.

“I-I’m sorry.  I normally don’t fall asleep like that,” he admitted.  “Did you have a good nap?”

“Yeah.  It was really good,” Noctis said, still shamelessly lying with his head in Prompto’s lap as he gazed up at him.  Prompto didn’t seem to know how to respond to the situation, and he instead tried to avoid Noctis’s eyes as he drummed his fingers against the side of his leg.

“So…we should probably head back to class…” Prompto finally hedged.

“At this point there really isn’t a point,” Noctis pointed out.  “We’re already going to be in trouble, although Ignis will probably help us come up with an excuse and punish me personally instead.”

Prompto’s eyebrows furrowed together and he obviously looked apologetic over the situation.  “I’m so…” he started to say, but Noctis shook his head.

“’t’s not your fault,” he yawned.  “I would, however, like to get out of the cold.  How about we go back to my place?  I can pretend to be sick and try to look pitiful for when Ignis comes by later. You can be there for support – a good pal just trying to take care of his sick buddy.”  Noctis’s eyes lit up at the idea, and Prompto felt himself get swept along with his scheme.  Not that he minded.

“Sounds like a plan to me,” he said.  “First though…can you get off?  Can’t really move with you like this…”

Noctis did pout at that, although he did finally sit up.  “I guess,” he huffed, before both he and Prompto got up and stretched out their stiff muscles.  “Maybe we can sneak in a round of King’s Knight before he comes looking for us.  What do you say?”

“Are you ready to lose?” Prompto asked, eyes playfully mocking while Noctis shook his head.

“No way, you’ll be the one going down, Chocoboy,” he said, while Prompto tsked at him.  They would be leaving their things in the classroom, but it would be no problem for Noctis to have someone fetch it for him later. He glanced at Prompto who walked next to him, snapping pictures with his phone as they went, and let out a small smile. Prompto really was warmer than the sun – Noctis really was lucky to finally make a friend like him.

[ragewerthers]

See Me

Summary: It was perhaps the worst day in Ignis's little life. It seemed like everything was going wrong. Why couldn't anyone just see him and notice how upset he was? See him and try to help?

Why couldn't someone just see him?

A/n: This is the second prompt I just couldn't turn down for my friend @bgn846​ for our f3s!!!

The prompt was little Ignis meeting Cor or Clarus for the first time and what the meeting would be like! My brain ran away with a bit more whump then I thought, but I still hope it's an enjoyable read!

You can also read on AO3 at: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21679642

Enjoy! :D

Word Count: 3025

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Today had to be one of the worst days of six year old Ignis’s life.

So many things had gone wrong in such a short span of time.

Why couldn’t anybody see him?  See just how hard he was working or ask him about his missteps?  All day it had felt like he either made a blunder… or was merely overlooked.

First he had mixed up his school work and the tutor had snapped at him for making such an easy mistake.  ‘Wasn’t he supposed to be more aware than that?  An Adviser can’t afford to make these sorts of little mistakes.’  Ignis had nodded and pretended like the words didn’t hurt.  He would just try harder and strive to do better... even if he had stayed up late to finish all the extra work he was given.  It was okay.

Ignis could handle it.

Then came lunchtime, Ignis had waited patiently outside his Uncles office.  Only the man didn’t show. His Uncle had sent someone to let Ignis into the room and let him know that he couldn’t join his nephew today.  A meeting had run over late and he sent his apologies and a note saying he would definitely see him for dinner. Ignis tucked the note inside his little vest and pretended like he hadn’t been looking forward to spending some time with his Uncle who he hadn’t seen properly in a few days.  The man was busy and it gave Ignis an idea of what was to come. Tucking the extra cookie he had brought for his Uncle into the corner of his lunchbox he finished his sandwich alone in the man’s office. It was okay.

Ignis could handle it.

Then came his time with Noctis.  The Prince had refused to listen to him about the game they had been playing.  He was obviously making up his own rules and rules were meant to be followed, weren’t they?  Wasn’t it his job to teach Noctis these things and show him the right way? So Ignis had tried to explain that no… certain pieces couldn’t just jump ahead five spaces and no… he couldn’t just take however many cards he wanted on his turn.  However, with every rule he tried to correct it only seemed to make Noctis more and more angry until finally…

“No!  I wanna play this way!  You… you’re being stupid and m-mean and dumb!  I wish… I wish you’d g-go away!” Noctis had cried out before the four year olds strong emotions had taken over.  He’d pushed over their board game and burst into tears creating the loudest racket Ignis had ever heard.

The next thing Ignis knew, the door to the playroom was being quickly opened and nanny and King Regis were rushing inside.  Both grown ups were wearing a look of panic and trying to figure out what was going on as Noctis wailed in the middle of the room surrounded by his board game pieces.

“Ignis?  Ignis what is the meaning of this?!” Nanny had instantly scolded, taking a step forward.

It wasn’t okay.

Ignis couldn’t handle it.

Before either of the grown up’s could say anything, before Ignis could hear another scolding word or could see the disappointment in the King’s face he did the only thing he could think of.

He ran.

Ignoring the calls of his name, Ignis ran and ran and ran until he didn’t think his legs could carry him a step further.

Why did it feel like he couldn’t do anything right?

Why did it feel like no matter how much he was trying it wasn’t enough?

Why did it feel like he was only seen for his mistakes?

Tears began to blur his vision as he ran around another corner and found himself in a small courtyard filled with trees, flowers and grass.  Still, the beauty of the place was easily lost in his frantic bid to get away.

Before long his legs couldn’t keep up their momentum and he slowed down, ducking behind a few chrysanthemum bushes and plopping down on the ground.  He drew his knees up to his chest, trying to catch his breath as tears continued to prick at his eyes.

He wished he was home.

He wished he had his stuffed moogle, Teacake.

He wished his Uncle was there with him and most of all…

He wished someone would just see him and understand how tough it was!

Burying his face into his knees he finally let his tears fall, no longer having to act like the little adult everyone expected of him.

“Hey?  Hey, kid?  You alright?”

A gruff voice instantly startled Ignis.  His head snapping up from where he was hidden against his knees to find piercing blue eyes staring back at him.  A tough and rugged looking soldier was peering at him from over the bushes he had hidden behind and had claimed as his haven.  The man wasn’t quite as old as King Regis, but he looked ten times scarier.

Being caught in this moment of weakness and feeling so miserable did nothing to stop his tears and Ignis found himself apologizing over and over again.

“I-I’m sorry!  I’m sorry I… I’m s-s-sorry!” he stammered, trying to wipe his eyes quickly to hide his childish tears.

“Woah!  Easy there, kid.  What are you apologizing for?” the man asked, looking equal parts worried and uneasy.  He carefully made his way around the flower bushes, moving slowly as if that might keep the kid from taking off like a terrified chipmunk.

Ignis sniffled miserably and pushed his glasses up as he wiped at his eyes now red-rimmed and puffy.

“F-For crying and… and m-making Noct angry and… and his M-Majesty angry and… tut-tutor angry,” he listed off between quiet sobs.

Ignis missed the look of shock over his  words and after a moment the soldier knelt in front of him.

“That’s… quite a list of people you got angry at you,” he began, getting a miserable little hiccuped sob for his troubles and wincing at the noise.  “What on Eos did you do, kid?”

The soldier carefully took a seat across from Ignis, folding his legs as he tried to look as un-intimidating as possible.  Something he had been told countless times that he was incapable of doing.

Ignis watched the man warily, hiccuping a little as he tried to keep his tears at bay.

“My… my Uncle told me n-not to talk to strangers…. Sir,” Ignis said quietly, still minding his manners even as this man sat in front of him.

“Oh… right… well… your Uncle is definitely right there.  He’s Cartus Scientia, isn’t he?” he asked and Ignis’s eyes widened.

“H-How did you…?”

“Your accent, your eyes and the way you can’t help to mind your manners around everyone… even people you don’t know.  Definitely family traits,” the soldier listed off, though he offered the kid a little smile. “That must mean that you’re Ignis, his nephew.  My names Cor… Cor Leonis. I’m the Marshal here in the Crownsguard.”

Ignis’s eyes instantly widened.  He’d heard about Cor long before he’d even come to the Citadel.  The man was a legend and to see him there sitting in the grass with him… Ignis wondered if he would get in trouble for that too!

“Oh!  Oh, Mr. Cor Marshal!  Please you… you don’t have to sit there!  I’m sorry!” Ignis gasped, scrambling to get up to try and find them more suitable seating.  He couldn’t let thee Cor Leonis sit in the dirt!

Cors eyes widened at the sudden mood change and shook his head, reaching out to rest a hand on the young boys shoulder.  “Steady there, Ignis. It’s alright. You have nothing to apologize for. I sat down here on my own, didn’t I?” he asked and the young boy seemed to sag under the gaze, frowning and biting his lower lip.

“O-Only because I was… you were… trying to make me f-feel better,” he muttered and Cor’s eyebrows rose.

“Oh… you… yeah,” he agreed, surprised at how adeptly this… child had read him.  If memory served, the kid was only around Gladio’s age and even Gladio wasn’t that perceptive.  “I um… thought I might be a bit too intimidating if I didn’t.”

“It’s okay.  You w-were still kinda… kind of scary even when sitting,” Ignis said honestly, correcting his own grammar as Cor bit back a chuckle.

The kid didn’t talk or act how most kids his age did.  He had been around Gladio and Noctis enough to know. He was more aware of his surroundings, held himself with a different sort of aire.  Literally as if he had been trained to act as a mini-adult.

That didn’t sit quite right with the Marshal somehow.

“Well… since I’m scary either way… we can always go and find a nice bench to sit on,” he offered, watching as Ignis’s cheeks flushed up.  He held up a hand as he saw the kid opening his mouth again and shook his head. “No apologies. You’re right. I’m an intimidating person and I have to be.  Don’t apologize for being right… or for being honest, okay?”

Ignis instantly closed his mouth at that and nodded, looking down at the ground.  Cor frowned as he watched the kid and stood up, brushing a few pieces of grass from his trousers as he looked around.

“There’s a bench right over there.  Why don’t we go and get comfortable and then you can tell me how one small kid managed to get so many people angry at him?” he offered, a little smile still on his lips as he led the way, Ignis following behind him like a sad baby duckling.

It wasn’t long before they were settled on the bench, a little closer to the entrance.  It was close enough to watch a few people meandering along the hallways though still allowed them the chance to enjoy the peace of the Citadel gardens.  Though the peace was still lost on the little boy who looked like he had a rain cloud over his head.

It had taken everything in Cors power not to help Ignis take a seat as he scrambled up onto the bench.  Judging by the way the kid carried himself it wouldn’t have been appreciated in the slightest. As they both finally settled into their seats he turned to take in the downcast expression, the tear stained cheeks and the way the poor kid was curling in on himself like he wished he could disappear.

Cor suddenly found that he wasn’t quite sure how to start this conversation.  The kid acted like a little adult and yet… in this moment he seemed just like any other miserable six year old.  How does a person talk to someone like that?

He didn’t have to ponder long as a shaky breath instantly had his attention focused back on Ignis.

“I… I’m sorry… again for troubling you, Sir,” Ignis began, his voice quiet.  Cor frowned deeply at that, but before he could tell the little retainer that he hadn’t done anything wrong Ignis continued on.  “I… I shouldn’t have ran away like… like I did. It was… childish of me.”

Cor had to bite back a comment at that.  ‘You are a child’ he thought, but he knew there was more to come.

Ignis took his silence as a chance to continue and closed his eyes as he took a little shuddered breath.

“But… but early today I got tutor angry at me because I didn’t turn in the right work, but… but I really, really did try, Sir!  I even stayed up past when Uncle told me to go to bed, but I… I did the wrong lesson.  And… and then I thought I’d get to have lunch with Uncle, but he was busy so I… I went to go look after the Prince like I’m supposed to, but… he… he was playing a game wrong and… and when I tried to teach him the rules he got angry at me and told me he wished I… I’d go away and then… and… and then…,” Ignis’s little face scrunched up as tears appeared in his eyes once more and he sniffled.  “Th-Then nanny and the K-King came in and they… they were gonna get upset at me for doing my job wrong and… and up-upsetting the Prince and… and I just wanted to do a good job, but I didn’t and now everyone is m-mad at me and… and I just… I want my U-Uncle and I want Teacakes and I… I want to be better, but I keep messing up and making people angry!”

With that last little outburst, Ignis brought his hands up to cover his face as a choked little sob broke free from his chest.

Cor couldn’t take seeing this kid looking so miserable and upset and just like he would’ve done for Gladio he wrapped an arm around the tiny tot and pulled him into his side.  Ignis easily turned into the offered comfort, hiding his face against Cors side and crying quietly into his coat.

“That… definitely sounds like a tough day, Ignis,” he said quietly, carefully pulling his phone from his pocket and sending a quick text to Regis while the poor kid continued to get out all the hurt and sadness he had harbored all day.

After receiving a message back he slipped his phone back into his pocket, giving Ignis an encouraging little squeeze as he felt him slowly calming down.  He could feel the slight hitch in his shoulders still, but he figured it was finally alright to try and remedy some of this hurt.

“First of all… I want you to know that running away like that isn’t childish, though you’ve definitely scared a few people if my texts are anything to go by.  Regis, Clarus and your Uncle are tearing apart the Citadel trying to find you right now,” he said, getting a terrified and tear streaked face looking up at him for his troubles.  “They aren’t angry, I can tell you that. They are worried, but not angry. And don’t worry about Prince Noctis. Do you know how many stuffed carbuncles and behemoths I’ve had thrown at me because he doesn’t play games fairly?” he asked, getting a little, watery smile from the tiny Adviser, though the kid tried to hide it.

Cor offered him a smile at that and continued.  “I’m sorry for what he said to you though. I know the Prince doesn’t mean it.  He is still little and he doesn’t exactly get told no or that he’s wrong a lot. What you did in trying to teach him the right way was… well… right.  You’re being tasked with a lot, Ignis. You’re still little yourself and people are asking you to act like a little guardian and well beyond your years.  I’m definitely going to be having a talk with that tutor of yours though. If it’s Mr. Harghen’s then it will be a pleasure.   Do you know how many bad marks he gave me in my classes?  If he’s gonna pick on you then he’s picking a fight with me.  Okay?”

Ignis’s eyes widened as he heard that.

Cor the Immortal was going to tell off his tutor?  And he also had trouble sometimes with the Prince?

Ignis sniffled and wiped at his eyes, a little smile appearing on his face as someone seemed to finally be noticing the troubles he’d been dealing with.  Not only that… they were listening to him and not treating him like he was being too childish to pay attention to… or too grown up to need the attention.

Cor was simply listening to him and helping him through his troubles.

“Thank you, Mr. Cor Marshal,” Ignis said with a little nod, feeling like for the first time in weeks someone was actually seeing him.  Was taking time to listen and understand.

“Anytime, Ignis.” Cor said, giving the kids hair a little ruffle and even getting a little giggle for his troubles.  “Now. I know there are three people keen to see you again back at your Uncles… and a little Prince who wants to apologize to his friend. ”

Ignis’s hands paused where they were fixing his hair and he looked up at Cor wide-eyed.  “Really? He… he’s not mad at me anymore?” he asked.

Cor shook his head.  “I think he regrets saying what he did to you.  He’s never wanted to apologize for throwing stuffed moogles at me so… I think you’ve already taught him a few good lessons don’t you?” he asked and Ignis nodded, smiling a bit more as he heard that.

“Come on, kid.  I’ll escort you back.  Perhaps we can stop along the way to talk to that tutor of yours,” Cor offered as he stood up.

Ignis smiled more at that and giggled, scooting off the bench.

Cor was just typing out a message on his phone saying that they were on their way when he felt a small hand take his free one.

Looking down he caught an equally surprised Ignis glancing up at him in return.  Apparently the tiny tot hadn’t meant to do it, almost looking ashamed for doing something so childish.  But Cor merely gave him a smile and offered a little squeeze to his hand. “You don’t mind holding hands, right?  It gets busy in the halls around this time and I don’t want to get lost,” he said, watching as Ignis’s expression went from shock and shame to a more relaxed if slightly skeptical one.

“You’re a soldier.  You wouldn’t get lost,” he said, though he didn’t let go of Cors hand as they began to make their way out of the gardens.

“You don’t know that.  Maybe I get lost all the time?  King Regis does. He has terrible navigational skills,” he offered, smiling more when he heard Ignis giggling beside him.

Ignis smiled up at the Immortal and shook his head.  Perhaps… this wasn’t the worst day of his life.

Someone had finally seen him.