#Altissa

[someobscurereference]

ive been rereading your ffxv fic "im trying hard to take it back" for literally four years now. please end my suffering and tell me how gladio feels. please. PLEASE. (but only if u want ofc)

(fic) Short answer: Gladio feels insane guilt and spends a lot of his life trying to make this up to Prompto. In the process, they deepen their connection as friends and do begin a relationship probably around the one-year mark of endless darkness. <3

Longer answer: (implications of abuse/violence tw but no worse than in the fic itself; just what others assume to be true even if it's not in the context of this specific fic)

Gladio is a secret romantic at heart who has always envisioned meeting his soulmate, but he's also duty-bound and duty comes first. So even though he reads romance books (amongst other types of books too) and indulges in his head a bit as many people do, he's often put his duty to the crown first and foremost in his mind. He also didn't imagine his soulmate was anyone on this trip and thought perhaps the person he may have been fated to meet died in the assault of Insomnia. Even if they were a refugee, they can't be a priority to him at this moment. His priority has to be Noctis.

Prompto has obviously grown on him over the course of their road trip, but there are aspects of them that don't 100% mesh (as is true with every realistic relationship). That said, Gladio never in a hundred years would want this moment of (understandable but out of line) frustration and anger in the wake of Luna and Altissa to be a permanent mark on Prompto's face. He's genuinely horrified and disgusted with himself for a long time after this and spends most of his life trying to make it up. He feels like a dirtbag about it.

That said, Prompto runs away from him in this moment and they need time to calm down, just as the fic shows. Noctis goes after Prompto, just like in canon. Prompto falls off the train and has his Despair Arc just like in the DLC, now with the added despair of "well, in addition to being a clone, my soulmate hates me. And in addition to the mark of inhumanity on my wrist (barcode), I have a giant hand print of him literally Shoving Me Away on my face. Forever."

Aranea: Well, do you want to die about it. Or do you want to live.

Prompto, eventually like in canon: Live, I guess. But it will be excruciating.

Aranea: That's what living is. We do it anyway. Your friends love you. Get off the floor.

He fights his way through his issues and gets rescued like in canon. Gladio probably tries to talk to him when they all catch up again, trying to apologize, and Prompto tells him to hold off on that for later.

Then, of course, Noctis is eaten by the crystal and "later" becomes much, much later as they evacuate and try to survive in eternal darkness. (Though they also can't Not think about it because it's a giant hand print. On Prompto's face. And every person they meet has Something To Say about it, for better or worse, whether they knew Prompto before or not. Prompto cannot escape it, and when Gladio is not doing Crown Duties he feels he must do in Noct's absence, he's with Prompto, so he also Cannot Escape It either. Even when the person speaking is unaware that Gladio left that mark. It's almost worse when they don't know, but when they see it's Gladio, who is such a big guy who seemingly hit Prompto and left that permanent mark there, some of them get nasty to him and some back off out of fear. Both are horrible. The guilt is eating him alive.)

Eventually, enough time passes as the dust settles that they do Talk About It. Gladio apologizes sincerely, for the 500th time. Prompto's like, "Well. It's not like you could have known that this would be The One Time it happened." And then cracks a joke about their soulmate mark being a Prompto's hand print on Gladio's ass from a butt slap in another life, which does help the tension somewhat. (The more Gladio tries to apologize, the more Prompto grows sick of hearing it, so they just have to move on and keep going, as he's learned to do.)

They grow closer over time, especially because there's not a lot of people who have survived to this point and even less later on. They do get together romantically, both because they do like the idea of soulmates (for different reasons) and also because they're living out of each others pockets for years, so there's an affection and dependency that develops there. Also, teenage Prompto always thought Gladio was really handsome and teen Gladio thought Prompto was cute and sincere for a pipsqueak.

When they are out together on dates in normal settings surrounded by strangers after the light returns, Gladio will receive dirty looks for the rest of his life from strangers who see the hand print on Prompto's face and immediately (correctly) assumes it was out of anger rather than a funny accident or something. (Edit: Some people will assume there is a funny story attached. Gladio will not know what to say to this. Prompto will play along.) He will learn to live with this. Prompto is really grateful Gladio is with him despite everything.

[flastar13]

the role of oracle, which she never wanted, following the death of her sister Lunafreya, who was barely with her for a day before she was murdered in front of her eyes. She has been recognized as queen of Tenebrae, only after killing her brother Ravus turned into a daemon, never managing to reconcile because both preferred to accuse the other of being a traitor who abandoned Tenebrae.

She was able to discover the reason for her powers, but at the cost of her boyfriend Noct being absorbed for 10 years by the crystal and the answer did not improve anything. She is the mortal reincarnation of the goddess Eos who gave her name to the star, and the original astral, mother of the six elemental gods and the goddess of death Etro. She was born with the sole purpose of taking her six children to the kingdom of her daughter Etro for her careless acts towards mortals. But she really does not want to kill Gentiana who she has known since childhood or Titan and Ramuh, whom she has come to respect. Well she only wants to kill Leviathan whom she blames for the death of Luna and the destruction of Altissa, and definitely Ifrit and Bahamut.

In the following 10 years, she suffers assassination attempts by Ardyn and Bahamut. She struggles to fulfill her duties as queen and oracle, leading Tenebrae while avoiding the realm of darkness. She has been learning the extent of her powers and believes she is capable of facing the Dracoin.

Upon Noctis' return, she joins the Chocobros to reclaim Lucis, but rather than allow Noctis to sacrifice himself, Stella convinces Ardyn to infect Bahamut with Starcouge, promising the death of the astral and that the cursed immortal will reunite with Aera in the realm of Etro.

The plan is for an angry Bahamut to cast Terra Flare, but Stella must prevent this by casting the more powerful Mega Terra Flare, but must return to being Eos to kill Bahamut in the spiritual plane. In order to avoid losing another important person, Noctis convinces the other astrals and the spirit kings of Lucis to grant their power to Ardyn to kill Bahamut in the astral plane.

The entire cast fights against mini-Bahamut, until Stella manages to destroy it with Mega Terra Flare. Ardyn manages to get revenge on the draco and reunite with Aera.

The crystal shatters as does the trident, the remaining gods decide to accept Eos' punishment as they recognize that their lack of action against Bahamut and disinterest in mortals caused all the problems, but Eos gives them a second chance for their efforts to save the world, but now they must agree to form contracts with any worthy mortal (Hello summoners) and stop being destructive. Etro is worshipped again by humans, and takes Bahamut's place as leader of her brothers, with the duty of watching over them.

Stella and Noct marry and rule Lucis and Tenebrae together, and have two children. They are happy although the pain of losing her brothers is always present in Stella.

[smokeyxpixels]

Welcome to Altissa - FFXV

[rhetoricandlogic]

MOONBOUND by Robin Sloan

RELEASE DATE: June 11, 2024

A sentient artifact that witnessed the fall of human civilization becomes a friend and advisor to a boy who discovers it many lifetimes later.

Twelve-year-old Ariel de la Sauvage has never seen a blue sky or tasted tomato sauce. Millennia before he began life in the small, remote village of Sauvage, humanity was defeated by AI-begat “dragons” in a war to end all wars, changing the course of life on Earth forever. While exploring the valley around Sauvage, Ariel discovers an object dating back to that era: a spaceship’s escape pod, entombed in a cave revealed by the calving of a glacier. In addition to the body of human warrior Altissa Praxa, the pod holds the chronicling device that served Altissa in life, a sophisticated and self-aware apparatus designed to record human memories. (For its part, the chronicler describes itself as “a hearty fungus onto which much technology has been layered, at extraordinary expense.”) Making the leap from Altissa to Ariel, the chronicler, who acts as the book’s narrator, finds society transformed. Animals talk. Robots roam the roads. Wizards hold sway, including the Wizard Malory, the ruler of Sauvage. When Ariel inadvertently thwarts Malory’s secret plans one day, revealing an intricate conspiracy revolving around Ariel himself, he incurs the wizard’s wrath and only manages to escape Sauvage by the skin of his teeth. Pursued by Malory and his forces, Ariel is aided by a colorful cast of characters ranging from an elk to a bog body to a trash picker as he searches for a way to defeat the wizard—and figure out why Malory wants him in the first place. Thanks to the chronicler’s distinct voice and novel point of view, it makes for an ingenious choice of narrator; the plot itself is replete with thorny quests and arduous journeys in the manner of classics like A Wrinkle in Time and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, though the finale feels somewhat rushed and leaves a few questions hanging. Coming at the dawn of the AI era, this is a thoughtful (and hopefully not prescient) book that, like its characters, asks: What happens next?

An expansive adventure that blends fantasy and SF to address one of the most pressing issues of our time.

[savage-rhi]

Mending Shadows // Chapter 22

Summary:

Y/N was a simple Scavenger of Lucis, until meeting a deadly blow at the hands of an infected creature. At the crossroads of death, they are found by Niflheim’s cryptic Chancellor with his own agenda. Now bonded to Ardyn Izunia, and tossed into the world of Niflheim, Y/N struggles to cope with their new life as an Imperial Icon all the while battling their feelings toward their fate and that of Ardyn’s.

Click here to read on AO3

There was not a single word or sentence that could describe the full magnificence of Altissa, but if Y/N had to assign it something, it would be “heaven on Eos.” Surrounded by waterfalls, canals, and vast architecture that could make the most stoic of men stop in awe, the capitol of Accordo demonstrated a mighty grace that matched the sea god who allegedly slumbered nearby. Y/N recalled a time where friends mentioned traveling here, and how if they had the gil to return, they would’ve settled in Altissa. The thought nearly brought a tear to Y/N’s eye as they grinned in admiration. 

Y/N was so enraptured by the scenery, they nearly missed Ardyn beckoning them to stay close at his side after docking. Upon standing at his right, Y/N couldn’t help but notice his entire demeanor changed in an instant. The mask he was wearing this time around, was one of arrogance; but with the softened blow of a smile that demonstrated fealty. Dare say even his scourge felt off as Y/N captured a brief photograph of Ardyn’s feelings through their bond. 

Taking their eyes off of Ardyn, Y/N stared past the Imperial officials who went ahead of Ardyn, and met the fierce gaze of Accordo’s state leader: Madam Secretary Camelia Claustra. Her smile was both intimidating and full of warmth, contrasting with her experienced features. Her clothes, dull greys and blues further amplified her older grace. Y/N could tell she had been through much, but her poise and confidence hid whatever woes she had swimming under the surface. 

Ardyn had a talked a great deal about Camelia. It was one thing to hear about her no-nonsense energy, but another to be meeting it head on. Y/N felt it best not to say hello, and merely observe unless directed otherwise. This wasn’t a woman who liked to play games, nor did Y/N get the impression she could be won over with small talk. This had Y/N wonder what sort of trifling antics Ardyn was going to pull off, and they couldn’t help but feel sorry for her. Y/N was no fool. Despite Ardyn holding a reserved warmth for them, they knew he didn’t show compassion to most. It was one of the few misgivings they harbored toward him. 

“Chancellor Izunia, warmest of welcomes.” Camelia stated with pride, giving a bow with her head to which Ardyn returned in favor with a formal bend and a tip of his hat. 

“The honor is mine, dear Madam Secretary.” Ardyn smirked as he returned to form. He held out his arms for emphasis. “Might I compliment your radiance? It’s unfortunately not something my eyes are used to back home among the council of men with one foot in the grave!” 

“Spare me the pleasantry, Chancellor. There is much preparation to be had for the betrothal ceremony, and your fleet arrived two days late.” 

“I assure you, the extra precaution on our end was worth the wait. The empire cannot afford to doddle when it comes to security. You know that better than most with the recent assassination attempt on your head! I do hope your psyche has been seen to after such a horrid experience!” Ardyn oozed with false affection. The glint in his eyes further lit up when he saw Camelia’s throat tense as she held back what was no doubt an onslaught of profanities that wanted to creep past her lips. 

“I may not have fought on the field, Chancellor, but I’ve had my share of battles that come with the task of keeping the people of Accordo safe. I appreciate the concern nevertheless.” 

“But of course!” Ardyn nodded, his cadence lathered with impish elegance. “I do hope my concerns didn’t drudge up ill feelings?” 

“None at all.” 

Y/N had a feeling if Camelia didn’t have an audience, she would’ve ripped Ardyn a new one for the not so subtle jab. Nevertheless, they were surprised at how she had no fear calling Ardyn out on his bluff right out the gate. He didn’t seem bothered by it, and in fact chuckled amusingly. 

“Your ambition is inspiring to us all in the realm of politics,” Ardyn complimented. He let out a sigh, and gestured for some of the Imperial soldiers near to begin gathering belongings off the airship. Once settled, he followed Camelia’s lead and began to walk at her side then subtly gestured to Y/N to stand behind him out of protocol. 

It was once the group were off the docks and walking on land, did Camelia speak up. 

“I do hope the accommodations my men are providing will suffice, Chancellor.” 

“I don’t see why not,” Ardyn smiled. “Each time myself or a member of council have visited your land, we’ve been greeted with nothing but the best!” 

“Speaking of visiting,” Camelia began. “How is your Emperor fairing these days? It’s been almost five years now since he’s witnessed Altissa’s splendor.” 

“Ah,” Ardyn furrowed his brows, feigning a frown. “The poor man could use such a tranquil place to rest. The war has been unforgiving as you can imagine, yet we prevail! Speaking of, we have much to discuss about Lucis and future plans that Accordo should be in alignment with. I trust you have carved out time for conversation?” 

“Of course,” Camelia stated. “Keeping our alliance stable is our highest priority. This wedding I hope will quell tension among my citizens who have been critical of our partnership.” 

Although she had much conviction in her voice, there was a sadness to Camelia’s features as she finished her sentence that Y/N honed in on. It seemed she was crushed at the fact rebellion wouldn’t bear fruit. Not when Niflheim was keen on keeping people compliant with their goals. Y/N had mixed feelings. Though they were acting as a poster child for the empire, they didn’t like how shackled they made folks like Madam Secretary feel. 

Y/N realized they must’ve been staring for too long, for Camelia and the rest of the entourage stopped. They swallowed as Camelia eyed them with scrutiny, and gestured after giving a slight huff. 

“A pardon Chancellor, but who is this young thing following your side like a hound to a trail?” The jest had the group of Imperial officials and Accordo envoy’s chuckle. 

“Oh dear, I’ve forgotten my manners!” Ardyn exclaimed. He shot a quick glare at Camelia, noticing how she savored the look of surprise he held seconds ago. He cleared his throat, and ever the cordial gentleman, gestured to Y/N with high regard. 

“Madam Secretary, may I have the privilege to introduce Y/N Y/L/N, a new Imperial Icon of Niflheim. They are my guest of honor, and have kindly volunteered to aid me with matters involving the betrothal ceremony.” 

Y/N wasn’t sure how to address one such as Camelia formally. This was something that Ardyn neglected to go over with them. Feeling the scourge rise in their chest, Y/N went with their first instinct without thinking, and Ardyn held in his breath. 

“It’s nice to meet you,” Y/N said with a smile, presenting their hand out to Camelia. The older woman seemed taken aback at first, but even with the gasps coming from the Imperials and Envoys, she reached out for Y/N’s palm and took it into her own, giving a strong shake. 

“I don’t believe I’ve ever had an Imperial greet me in this fashion.” Camelia smirked with amusement. Her eyes lit up in a manner that hadn’t been seen in a while. “You don’t strike me as a typical sort.” 

“Forgive me,” Y/N laughed nervously, all the while trying their hardest to avoid Ardyn’s gaze. “I’m still getting my bearings.” 

“Y/N is a former Lucian,” Ardyn cleared his throat, redirecting the conversation so as to not have Y/N potentially drag themself into a pit. “They had suffered much under their own country, and Niflheim has taken them in with open arms.” 

“Oh yes,” Camelia said. Her demeanor seemed to shift as she let go of Y/N’s hand and regarded Y/N in a manner that suggested she felt pity for them if anything. “I’ve heard a great deal about you through word of mouth, the Lucian who abandoned everything.” 

“It was not an easy situation,” Y/N stated, trying to ground themself. “Niflheim, and Chancellor Izunia have been generous to me. I owe Chancellor Izunia a great deal, and I look forward to helping him ensure this wedding goes through without a hitch.” 

“How noble of you.” Camelia murmured.

For Y/N, it was hard to tell if Camelia felt disdain toward them or further pity. Probably a mix of both. Y/N imagined Camelia probably thought they were out of their mind for throwing allegiance to the empire, based on what Ardyn told them in the past about her history with Niflheim. 

“Chancellor,” Camelia spoke up.

“Madam Secretary?” 

“I’ve enjoyed meeting your companion, alas we have matters of privacy to discuss in the House of the Courts. If there is anything you’d like to disclose to your ally before we proceed, I’d suggest doing so now.” 

“Pardon me for a second!” Ardyn grinned. He motioned for Y/N to follow as he led them both away from the main group. He waited until the eyes and ears of the gang were off himself and Y/N before whispering. 

“You alright?” 

“Mostly,” Y/N murmured, wincing at themself. “I can’t believe I screwed up formality. A handshake? What the hell was I thinking?” 

“On the contrary, I think you made a good first impression.” Ardyn mused. He gestured with his chin over to Camelia, motioning for Y/N to briefly look upon her. “Trust my word, Madam Secretary isn’t one to return a favor in kind if she doesn’t care for the company.” 

“Can I count on your personal experience to vouch for that?” Y/N snorted, seeing the raised brow Ardyn gave before further explaining. “You both seem to have it out for each other.” 

Ardyn snickered. “Hate and admiration go hand in hand in politics. We both enjoy reminding the other of that. Regardless, your little stumble didn’t damage either of our respective reputations. I wouldn’t fret.” 

Y/N sighed in relief, turning their attention back to Ardyn in full. “So what happens now?” 

“Well,” Ardyn paused as he looked around, then settled his eyes on Loqui and Tuti from afar. He watched them assist with unpacking belongings from the airship, and gestured toward them. “Lieutenant Tummelt and Tuti will escort you to our lodging. From there, you’ll meet up with Ms. D’Bhara and her fellow socialites for an afternoon tour of the capitol. They’re expecting you for a luncheon after you become acquainted with your place of stay.” 

“And here I thought I was going to have to jump through hoops in order to meet her.” Y/N said in surprise. 

“I may have pulled some strings to get the ball rolling. Alas, I’m counting on you to find out what you can about the tomb.” 

“What if she doesn’t tell me anything?” Y/N furrowed their brows worriedly. 

“Even if the pair of you don’t become bosom companions, I’m sure she’ll let something slip.” Ardyn shrugged. “You’ll come to find that the rich and powerful, regardless of alleigence to country, love nothing more than to yak. Take it from someone who plays the game himself.” 

Y/N did a poor job suppressing a giggle at Ardyn’s last remark. They both smiled at each other fondly, only to be interrupted by a small and plump man who approached and cleared his throat rather loud. 

“Yes?” Ardyn irritably sighed. 

“A pardon sir,” The man chirped. “The group is wondering if you’re close to wrapping things up?” 

“One moment,” Ardyn held up a finger for emphasis before he gestured at the man to give Y/N and he some space. Once that was sorted, did he give his attention to Y/N. “I more than likely won’t see you until tomorrow. In the meantime, stay near Tuti and Lieutenant Tummelt, and don’t go outside of the capitol unless instructed otherwise.” 

“At the rate you’re going with precaution, you’d give a mother goose a run for its gil.” 

As much as Ardyn enjoyed the quip, and the soft giggle Y/N made, he remained firm. 

“I’m being serious. I want you to stay safe. Although Accordo is an ally of ours, we need to be careful.”

“The same thing applies to yourself. I know you seem to enjoy rattling Camelia’s cage, but don’t bite off more than you can chew.” Y/N urged. 

“You’re afraid on my behalf? How quaint.” 

“I’m being courteous!” 

“Y/N, promise me…”

“Alright,” Y/N murmured, sensing he was in no mood for further jest. “I promise I won’t do anything stupid.” 

Despite the reassurance, the look of disbelief Ardyn gave them had Y/N roll their eyes.

“I won’t do anything stupid within reason.” 

“That’s the spirit.” Ardyn grinned. He took Y/N’s right hand into his own, and bowed his forehead to their knuckles out of respect. “I’ll call on you later.” 

He let go and offered one final glance of acknowledgement before the mask went back on. The dare say compassionate Ardyn was replaced by the mischievous Chancellor once again. Y/N watched as this character came out in full swing while Ardyn graced his presence to the group, and then they were off. 

Y/N didn’t take their eyes off of Ardyn, not until he and the rest of the officials became specks in the distance. They swallowed, and felt a pain of sadness grow in their chest. It bloomed like a syelleblossom losing it’s petals before it’s prime. 

Gods be damned… Y/N shook their head. The scourge fed the sentiment further. Y/N decided to redirect their emotions by forcing their feet to move them toward Loqui and Tuti’s location. 

An hour later, and Y/N found themself in the lodging Ardyn and they would be staying at. For what was supposed to be a hotel room, it was quite vast and built like a small one story house with two bedrooms, a half kitchen, and a full bathroom. Like the rest of Altissia that Y/N had come to see, it had some beautiful architecture and felt more like a vacation dwelling than a temporary rest point for visiting foreigners. 

“Like what you see?” Loqui quipped, laughing when he saw Y/N snap out of their thoughts and shot him a brief glare. 

“I’m trying to keep in mind not to break anything. It all screams don’t touch me, I’m expensive.” Y/N laughed. 

“I wouldn’t worry!” Tuti chirped as she hurriedly and with excitement began to rummage through her suitcase and put away things.  

Loqui crossed his arms, moving out of Tuti’s way as he watched on with amusement. He couldn’t believe someone of such a smaller stature could zip through so many places at once. 

“It’s all covered by Madam Secretary. But should the Chancellor tick her off, it’s not like he can’t afford this himself.” 

“How much does it even cost to stay in a place like this?” Y/N asked while they found themself admiring some various plants that were strategically placed near the walls, complimenting the Mediterranean color palette. 

“Easily 15,000 gil a night.” Loqui scoffed. 

“15,000?!” Y/N exclaimed. 

“You heard right!” Loqui laughed. He let out a grunt when Tuti collided into his chest. After a series of apologies, not giving the man the chance to counter her, did she make her announcement. 

“I’m going to tidy up the bedrooms and then Y/N, we should get ready to meet the men and women of The Serpent Society!” 

Loqui frowned when Tuti once more zipped away before smiling at Y/N.  “If you don’t mind, I think I’m going to take advantage of being your assigned guard and treat myself to samplings in the kitchen!” 

“Pfft, like that’s all I’m good for…” Y/N jokingly muttered. They ignored Loqui’s faint quip from the distance, and felt drawn to sliding doors that led to the deck. 

When Y/N stepped out, they could feel the warmth of the sun crackle their skin. The pain was brief, and subsided the further they ventured out. Having Ardyn’s immunity to the rays of the star was a blessing that Y/N realized they had taken for granted. Regular daemons would either burn to a crisp, or suffer burns the likes of which would only add to their horrific appearance. 

Y/N recalled watching that happen weeks ago when a barrage of Flexitusks were reported along the outskirts of Gralea. Ardyn had decided to capture some of the creatures for Verstael’s research, and Y/N accompanied him. The entities were formidable as they were savage, even catching Ardyn off guard at times, but he came out unscathed. The experience was both eye opening, and one Y/N didn’t want to repeat. 

Ardyn had taught Y/N about daemons and their weaknesses that early dawn, and how such weaknesses either applied or didn’t to the likes of them. Y/N had learned from Ardyn, that though the sun couldn’t penetrate their skin to where they’d die; if a concentrated light source or magic based weapon were to be used against them, it would be a death sentence. Not for he, not for Adagium, however. 

Y/N swallowed when they recalled Ardyn sharing with them that Accordo had such a weapon on hand for daemons before they departed for Altissa. They made a fist, suddenly glimpsing the image of the three people they had slain long ago; imagining the light that left their eyes merging into a singular source. Swooping from the heavens to consume Y/N and the darkness that writhed under their flesh. 

While the trauma of that ill fated night remained with them day by day, Y/N did what they could to keep it under lock and key. Ever since Ardyn and they shared a bleedthrough, and he had bore a taste of their suffering, Y/N didn’t want him to experience the night they had become a daemon. Not after what they had seen through his eyes when he lost Aera. 

It dawned on Y/N how much they missed him already. 

“You alive in there?” 

Y/N fell out of their thoughts as Loqui walked over to their side. He smiled and handed a piece of an orange to Y/N. They popped it into their mouth and chewed. 

“I’m just thinking.” 

“About all the duties you have in Altissa?” Loqui inquired. 

“More or less,” Y/N shrugged and smiled after swallowing the fruit. “I haven’t seen much of you these past two weeks.”

“Been busy chasing away Lucian spies from the coast with Commodore Aranea. It’s been quite riveting,” Loqui said sarcastically, and then smirked at Y/N. “Did you miss me that much?” 

Y/N snorted. “Only your wits.”

“Owch!” 

“You asked!” 

“Point taken!” Loqui chuckled as did Y/N. 

Loqui’s gaze of admiration made the tempo of Y/N’s pulse stutter. While it was endearing and Y/N had valued the friendship that had grown between themself and he, there was something about the way he stared that had Y/N nervous. Nervous enough to change the subject. 

“What’s the status on your dad? I haven’t heard anything about him for a while.” 

Loqui let out a content sigh, enjoying the cool breeze that picked up while he and Y/N admired the tropical scenery before them. 

“Dad’s stationed in Galahd currently. That side of Lucis is in another stalemate battle wise, so while there’s no bloodshed, everyone’s on edge. Y’know, I’m surprised but grateful Chancellor Izunia approached me to be your guard on this trip. It’s gonna be nice having a distraction, not worrying about dad or whatever is going on over there. Although, I’d be lying if I didn’t feel left out. I feel like I should be fighting alongside him, but…I’m stuck at homebase.”

Y/N furrowed their brows, recalling previous conversations they had with Loqui about his military pursuits. Some men were born to be farmers and politicians. From birth, they felt a calling. It was no different than Loqui’s passion for battle; he was meant for it. Nevertheless, Y/N worried about him. It seemed as of late all he fixated on was either following his fathers footsteps, or being left behind in his shadow. 

While Y/N hadn’t been brought up in that manner, they could relate to Loqui’s need of wanting to prove himself. Y/N reached a hand out to Loqui’s shoulder, and gave a small squeeze. They giggled as did he when their nails scratched at the shoulder padding of his uniform. 

“Your dad is strong. I believe he’ll be alright, but I can understand why you’re scared. For what it’s worth, I think he’d be proud of the things you’ve been accomplishing for Niflheim.” 

Loqui smiled sincerely once Y/N let him go. “You really think so?” 

“Yeah! If I didn’t have faith in that, I wouldn’t have asked the Chancellor for you to be my guard in the first place.” 

Loqui made a face, crossing his arms as he averted his eyes. He chuckled afterward. 

“What?” Y/N asked flabbergasted, worried they might’ve hurt him in some way. 

“I had an inkling Chancellor Izunia’s request wasn’t out of the good graces of his heart. I should’ve known better.” Loqui responded with bitter amusement. He made it clear however he held no ill will toward Y/N as he grinned. “How in the six did you convince him to hire me?” 

“He knows pissing me off won’t get him anywhere, for starters.” Y/N snorted. “Also you and your dad are the only two I feel remotely comfortable around for a job like this. I’ve been an imperial citizen for a while, but I’m wary. I know there’s still a great number of people that don’t care for me. I told the Chancellor I didn’t want to put myself in a risky situation with people I’m not familiar with.” 

Y/N couldn’t help but notice both the disdain and intrigue that Loqui wore on his face. It reminded Y/N of a child being told of something interesting, but it came with resentment. 

“At this rate, you almost sound like a married couple!” Loqui scoffed in jest. 

Y/N gasped, slugging his shoulder they had gently squeezed moments ago. “Bite your tongue!” 

Loqui laughed hard, ignoring the pain. “No, but seriously, how have things been living with the guy?” 

“What kind of a question is that?” Y/N balked. 

“Why can’t you just answer it?” Loqui teased. He giggled at the roll of Y/N’s eyes. 

“He’s better than roommates I’ve had in the past, I’ll give him that.” Y/N shrugged. “He’s been kind to me. Er, as kind as someone like him can be to another person I should say.” 

“He hasn’t made you…uncomfortable, right?”

“Come again?” 

“Forgive me for being forward. Has he physically imposed himself upon you in any fashion?” 

Y/N’s brows furrowed at the emphasis of Loqui’s tone. It took them but a moment to realize what he was driving at. A part of Y/N felt honored that Loqui was checking to be sure the Chancellor wasn’t being predatory toward them, and yet Y/N also felt tempted to slap him across the face for insinuating something that despising about Ardyn. 

Y/N’s memories traveled back to the Vixen, and the day Ardyn fed upon them. While he lost himself in the thrill of consumption and brought them to the edge of death, Y/N never felt he would take advantage of their vulnerability. While Ardyn had been creepy in the past, and at present too flirtatious for his own good, Y/N couldn’t see him going to the extent Loqui implicated.

“He’s never hurt me like that,” Y/N murmured firmly in Ardyn’s defense. “Where is this coming from?” 

Loqui bit the inside of his cheek. “I’ve upset you, and I apologize. It’s just---”

“Just what?” 

Loqui sighed. “The last several times you and I have had audience together, I’ve noticed him having no care toward your boundaries. That, and he leans a lot into you.” 

“Leans?” 

“Leans.” 

Y/N raised their brows, making a face before they snorted. This was getting more baffling by the second. “Okay, time out, what do you mean by leans?” 

“He was, well…leaning toward you!”

Y/N shook their head. “I’m not following, Loqui. Is this because I gave him a brief side hug after the imperial banquet?” 

“No, no, you’re misinterpreting me. A side hug is way different than this...” His voice trailed off as he approached Y/N calmly, getting into their personal space. He consistently watched to be sure he wasn’t being aggressive while giving his demonstration. He offered a playful smile, all the while capturing Y/N’s eyes with his own. 

Y/N swallowed as they felt their back press to one of the beams on the deck that was holding up another above them. They could feel Loqui's breath fan over their skin as he spoke. 

“This is what the Chancellor was doing, leaning in to admire you. Does this answer your inquiry?” 

The intimacy was thick, as was the deep blush that crept against Y/N’s cheeks. They nodded in reply, for no words could move past their lips. 

“Ahem,” Tuti cleared her throat from the distance. She glanced between Loqui and Y/N, watching the former back off suddenly before making her pleasantries. “Y/N we should be getting ready. It’s important for you to be punctual while in Altissa.”

“I couldn’t agree more!” Y/N responded. They turned their attention to Loqui, giving a small bow with their head. “I’ll speak with you later?” 

“Of course.” Loqui murmured, furrowing his brows as he returned the bow. He watched Y/N quickly retreat back into the residence. Not long after, he sighed and decided to leave the lodging so he could scout the area. The defeat in his eyes lingered as he watched Tuti and Y/N venture down the hall. Loqui contemplated what his next moves should be. The warnings from his father echoed through his mind as he left after shutting the door behind him. 

As Tuti led Y/N to their bedroom, they let out a sigh of relief as did she. 

“You okay?” Y/N asked. 

“I should be asking you that.” Tuti smirked, although her eyes held concern. “I didn’t want to overstep, yet I couldn’t help but notice you looked uncomfortable. Did I ruin the moment?”  

They shook their head in response to her question. Y/N had an epiphany as Tuti dragged them further into the dwelling to change. 

Y/N liked Loqui, and even admired him a great deal. He had been nothing but chivalrous and like Tuti, a confidant that they felt safe navigating Niflheim with. By all accounts, it was a miracle to be in the good graces of someone with the prestige he had. However, Y/N was uncertain they could return what Loqui sought of them. Not when Ardyn’s smile once again invaded their thoughts, and their body shuddered. 

“No, you didn’t.” Y/N murmured.

[itsgeecheebitch]

TITLE: Until Darkness Descends

CHAPTER: 46/47

FANDOM: Final Fantasy XV

RATING: Explicit

MAIN PAIR: Ardyn Izunia x Reader

SEC PAIR: Gladiolus Amicitia x Reader

SERIES: The Fall Part 1 of 4

   It was like the gates of heaven opened up and you heard the angels sing. You wondered if this was how true awe felt like as you gazed upon the walls of water that surrounded you and your friends on all sides. The city state of Altissa was like something out of a fairy tale, with light blue and ivory buildings, clear canals in place of hard concrete roads, and the scent of baked bread following you wherever you went. But your awe was short lived. As much as you wanted to enjoy being in a foreign land, you couldn't escape the yoke of guilt that had your heart in a chokehold.

     You promised yourself that you would reveal everything to Gladiolus once you reached Altissa during the boat ride. But now that you were here, you felt like a chicken who just got its head choked off, your anxiety reaching its limit. You breathed around the panic-induced noose around your throat, your anxiety retreating but never truly leaving.

      The thought to postpone the conversation with Gladiolus tickled the back of your skull. It wouldn’t be bad to give it another day, right? The five of you weren't even in Altissa for more than fifteen minutes, and with the mission looming over your heads, it would probably be a good idea to keep your lips sealed until after Noctis gained Leviathan's blessing. You nodded to yourself, making another silent oath you swore this time not to break. Gladiolus didn't deserve to have the weight of your infidelity on his shoulders while he tried to evacuate the city. This was for his benefit and not yours.

       Feeling a little looser, but not at all completely relaxed, you traversed the pristine sidewalk of the fairy tale city. Your group's first destination was the first secretary of Accordo’s office, madam Camellia Claustra. Without her enthusiastic support, there was no way Noctis and Lunafreya would be able to commune with the water goddess. The fate of the mission rested upon her decision and whether or not the prince could successfully sway her to their side.

      You welcomed the pressure of the mission like a welcoming embrace, hoping it would replace the shadow of your transgressions that haunted every corner of your mind. You would've been successful if Gladiolus hadn't suddenly pulled away from the group, saying he had an errand to run and would meet up with everyone at the hotel they pre booked in advance.

     Anxiety punched you in the gut, causing the impact to reverberate through your muscles. Gladiolus hadn't mentioned having to run an errand during the boat ride. He only just recently revealed his reason for parting from the group before. And this time couldn't have been for training purposes. What if he sensed your betrayal? What if he finally put your long silences and distance together and came to the inevitable conclusion? Terror clawed up your throat, making your esophagus burn like it had just been scratched from the inside. You weren't ready for him to find out yet. 

     The rest of your group moved on without him, meanwhile you were silently falling apart behind them. Your anxiety hadn't quelled even once you arrived at the secretary’s office. You paced the polished maple wood floors, dread riding on your back, causing a restless energy to zing through your limbs like a ball flying off the walls. 

     Noctis had disappeared into the secretary's office while you and your friends waited in the adjoined sitting room. The only sound in the air was your pacing footsteps. There was no concealing your nervousness. It was palpable, almost tangible in its intensity, as though you could touch it and grab it. Your ceaseless pacing seemed to catch your friends' attention since Prompto asked, “you okay?”

     Nerves leaped off your shoulders as you looked at him, as though you forgot you were with company. Your throat refused to comply when you tried to swallow, your tongue as dry as the lands you hailed from. “Y-yeah.” You stuttered. “Just a little nervous.” 

      “Don't be, Noct's got this!” He flashed you one of his cheerful smiles. You gave him a weak one in response, one that was weighed down by the chaos you hid behind it. 

      “He may not look as such, but Noct is well versed in the game of politics, such was his education from birth.” Your adopted brother added from his position against the wall. “Have faith in our prince, he'll see this through.”

       You nodded your head, wringing your hands as you did. Their encouraging words did nothing to soothe your frayed nerves. They were completely in the dark, ignorant to what was truly occupying your every thought. You stopped your pacing to look at them, a bottomless sadness made your chest feel empty. You wondered how they would react once it all came out. Once they found out about your infidelity. 

        They would surely hate you. You would lose your boyfriend and your friends all in a single day. The inevitability of it all made you want to crumble to your knees and wail for all of Altissa to hear. In the back of your mind, you heard dream Ardyn’s words of warning, his foretelling of events to come. Your arms froze over with goosebumps as you remembered. ‘Even if you don’t, who is to say your friendships won’t suffer as a consequence?  Do you really think they would keep you in their little boy’s club if you become an inconvenience?’ 

        You bit the inside of your bottom lip, he was right. Everything he said in your dream was true. Despite being friends with the boys for years you still didn’t enjoy the same bond they had with each other. They would choose Gladiolus.Your eyes misted with tears and you rubbed them to keep your tears at bay. Who knew the riff in your friendship would be caused by your own hands, not your overestimated incompetence in battle, or uselessness after three or four heals, but a choice that was completely avoidable. 

       Just like what your dream foretold, your friendship would suffer as a consequence and you would no longer be a welcomed guest in their club. Fifteen minutes of dreadful silence passed when Noctis returned to the waiting room, a triumphant smile on his face that let you know he succeeded in his task. Your smile was weak as your friends celebrated, with pats on Noctis’ shoulder and words of praise.

       Out of the three of them Noctis would be the least forgiving. The two of you weren’t necessarily close, at least in comparison to you and Prompto or even your adopted brother. You considered Noctis a friend and you were sure he considered you one as well. But your connection was flimsy in comparison to the familial bond he had with Gladiolus. He would surely be the first to discard you and not look back. A putrid taste singed the back of your throat at the thought of being the subject of his contempt. The thought of his deep blue eyes cut you before it could even happen. 

       After going over some of the plan, you and the boys journeyed over to the hotel. It was much more opulent than the Leville in Lestallum, with a ghostly white exterior, high archways, and a collection of square and arching windows. Its reflection rippled over the crystal clear water of the canal as you entered. Geometric shapes decorated the wooden floors of the lobby where you checked in. 

      Riding the elevator to the third floor, you separated from the boys to go to the room you shared with Gladiolus, possibly for the last time. An unrelenting knot tightened your throat as you wondered if your boyfriend was inside, waiting to have a talk with you. Your stomach twisted with unease, the door creaking open as you entered. Much to your relief the room was deadly silent and Gladiolus was nowhere to be found. 

       Something scarlet red caught your attention and you looked at the bed. Sitting on top of the plush blanket was a long evening gown. It spilled over the white comforter like blood, leading your eyes to the pair of silver heels on the floor. You approached the bed, your chest tightening when you touched the dress and found it was velvety soft and silky smooth. It was no doubt expensive and definitely not a welcome gift from the hotel.

       That only left Gladiolus. A pang shot through the muscles holding your chest together. The feeling worsened when you noticed a folded piece of paper on top of the dress. When you opened it and read it you felt worse than dirt. Gladiolus wanted you to put on the dress and meet him downstairs in the lobby by 7pm. You looked at the clock hanging on the wall, the hands pointing at 6 pm. That only gave you an hour to prepare. 

       You weren’t sure what Gladiolus had planned, but whatever it was you were sure it would only plant the knife in your chest six inches deeper. Throwing on the dress, you painted your face as best you could with the little make up you brought with you. You were on the elevator riding down to the lobby with five minutes to spare. 

       You spotted Gladiolus immediately once the elevator door opened. He was leaning against the wall, his broad muscled form concealed behind a black suit. His shoes were polished and shone under the fluorescent light, his hair combed smooth and flowed down his neck. The sound of your heels clacking against the floor caught his attention and he smiled the moment he met your eyes. 

         You squeezed your hand with the other and forced yourself not to look down at the floor. This would be the last time you would be on the receiving end of one of those smiles. The last time you would be able to appreciate his beauty, his love, his intelligence, everything you took for granted. 

          Once you were close enough, he handed a bouquet of roses to you. Crimson like the color of overflowing wine and white like the sight of freshly fallen snow. You accepted the flowers and gave him a smile you hoped didn't look as forced as it felt.

         “Thank you.” You muttered. “What is all of this for?”

         “There's a five star restaurant here”, he nodded his head towards the opulent looking door beside him. It towered over the other doors in the lobby and was fashioned in intricate carvings of gold and silver. “Thought it would be good to check it out. It's been a while since I did something like this for you. We may be here for only a short while but you deserve to experience what this city has to offer.”

           Tears filled your eyes without your consent. You tried to blink them away but they overflowed down your cheeks anyway. Gladiolus stiffened. His eyes slightly widened with panic and worry. “What’s wrong?”

           Everything. The fact that you cheated, that you betrayed a good man who didn’t deserve your disloyalty. The fact you would lose your place in the group before the mission was over. Instead of saying what was on your mind, you sniffled and gently wiped the tears from under your eyes. “I just…been feeling overwhelmed lately.” You said. “I just want everything to stop already.”

          Circling his arms around your waist, he brought you into his warm and safe embrace. The beat of his heart played a gentle tune in your ear, his deep voice rumbled in his chest as he spoke. “This’ll all be over soon.” He promised. “ Noct will gain all of his ancestors' blessings along with the gods, he'll reclaim Lucis from the Nifs and he and Lunafreya will get married and everything will go back to normal.” He pulled away from you a bit to look down at your tear-streaked face. His lips quirked in a half smile as he delivered the finishing blow, “maybe after all of this we could get married, I wouldn't mind tying the knot in a city like this”.

         Your chest shattered into a million pieces, leaving your heart beating and abandoned on the floor. Did he just propose to you? Horror froze your face in a state of shock. You didn’t know what to say. You didn’t know what to do. He essentially promised to marry you and you were planning on breaking up with him. Without knowing what else to do, you plastered a weepy smile on your face and let him kiss you. It felt like the weight of the world was crushing your shoulders, shoving you deep into the pits of the earth. 

[watasemasaru]

come get ass backwards turned around in altissa with me (ಠ⁠‿⁠ಠ)—🫳🏻

[serandipity]

@fujubun continued from here

"A few whispers here and there, nothing more than the usual," Aranea crossed her hands as she leaned against the wall. Although, the usual for Aranea always seemed to be nasty monsters the size of tall buildings. The uptick in Behemoth sightings was certainly giving her no shortage of work, but she's not sure if that's a good thing, quite frankly. She was paid well at least, especially with the Prince's little crew being stretched thin as it was.

"What's more interesting is some of the reports I've gotten from some of my contacts in Niflheim, actually." She frowned, "Darkness as far as the eye can see. There's no sun anymore. It's everything they can do to stop the demons. Not that I'm particularly bothered to hear my former employers are struggling."

Aranea sighed, reaching to grab her lance.

"Although, I'll likely hear word from Altissa soon. Like I said, if something goes wrong, I'm usually the first to know, for better or for worse. If it truly is getting darker faster like in Imperial Lands... well, we'll know what to expect here soon enough. For better or worse."

[ffxvficrec]

by CKirch Four friend's travel to Altissa to begin the wedding between Noctis and Lunafreya, but they run into four others traveling just like them; four girls that seemed to be mirror images of the boys. But Noctis, Gladio, Ignis and Prompto seem to know them from their past growing up; running into them might have been a fate by the gods or just luck, once the word of Insomnia is known to all of them everything changes for them all and they begin a journey to explain all the secrets each one of the girls seem to be keeping while not only keeping the princess safe but the prince as well. PS: I do not own Final Fantasy XV or any other game or characters within the game; I only own the OC's that I made up for the book. Words: 2649, Chapters: 2/?, Language: English Fandoms: Final Fantasy XV Rating: Mature Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence , Major Character Death Categories: F/M , Multi Characters: Noctis Lucis Caelum , Gladiolus Amicitia , Iris Amicitia , Nyx Ulric , Ardyn Izunia , Lunafreya Nox Fleuret , Ravus Nox Fleuret , Ignis Scientia , Prompto Argentum , Cindy Aurum , Cor Leonis , Regis Lucis Caelum , Cid Sophiar Relationships: Ignis/OC , Gladio/OC , Prompto/OC , Noctis/Oc , Lunafreya Nox Fleuret/Noctis Lucis Caelum Additional Tags: Older Gladiolus Amicitia , Protective Gladiolus Amicitia , Eventual Romance , Eventual Happy Ending , Eventual Fluff , Making Out , Lime , Sexual Tension , Tension , Gladio/OC - Freeform , Blind Ignis Scientia , Older Ignis Scientia , Ignis/OC - Freeform , Older Prompto Argentum , Prompto/OC - Freeform , Older Noctis Lucis Caelum , King Noctis Lucis Caelum , Noctis/OC - Freeform , Parent Cor Leonis , Protective Cor Leonis , Mentioned Nyx Ulric , Lunafreya Nox Fleuret - Freeform , Ardyn Izunia Being Ardyn Izunia , Daemon Ravus Nox Fleuret , Ravus Nox Fleuret - Freeform

[notesofarichlycolorednight]

since i'm back in my ffxv phase, i've been thinking more and more about super eyepatchwolf's video on it and it really does tie in with what hbomb says about rwby, bc it like has moments of threatening to be good but ultimately misses the mark

i just rewatched the kingsglaive movie and there's so much untouched story that has so much potential, but the game doesn't really tap into any of it.

like yes, it's ultimately about noct, but i agree with eyepatchwolf in that the game should've started the player in insomnia, so that the player could build a rapport and connection with the city itself and its citizens before dealing the blow the city has fallen and the king is dead

now, eyepatchwolf goes into gameplay mechanics, and from my very limited perspective, having never played ffxv bc i don't enjoy combat games, but now having more experience with games in general, rather than just watching let's plays, i would agree with his criticisms about it. just wanted to put that out there

bc what i want to talk about is the story and how it progresses, aside from the game-play mechanics. bc it feels very disjointed and like it didn't quite know what it wanted to be or do.

bc i've also been watching a "movie" of a play-through of the entire game (i'm writing a fic that spans across the story and then some, and am trying to get back into the story), and after insomnia falls, it's so jarring to go instantly back into game-play, wacky and goofy backing tracks included. bc then it flip-flops between these side-tangents with fun, hoppy little music, back to cut-scenes of the characters talking about what happened to insomnia, before jumping back to far too light-hearted interstitial dialogue teasing noct about his wedding with luna when they find out she's actually still alive.

side note: also the fact that they completely gloss over the fact that they believed she had perished alongside the king, and then find out she's actually alive? and instead of reconciling with that, they tease noct about a wedding that might not occur bc not only has niflheim declared all-out war by taking over the last stronghold of lucis, and taking the crystal, but they have also kept luna as a political prisoner for almost a decade. and sure, she's been going about awakening the gods for noct, but it's very clear from the scenes in altissa that niflheim is still in control. there's just so much to unpack there, and the game just completely ignores it! /tangent

like yes, the worst thing about the worst day of your life is that the world keeps turning and going and moving forward without waiting. but i really wish they had changed the score a little, at the least, and incorporated noct's grief into the main storyline of the game (as well as the others, since they also grew up in insomnia and gladio lost his father, too).

they do address this more in the animated series, but since the game came first, i shouldn't need to seek out additional material for the game if i want the whole story/more emotional depth.

i just wish they had planned for the possibility that the little side-quests and tangents you could do in this game (which, yes, I understand is an open-world) would take place after the fall of insomnia. bc in the "movie" of the game i'm watching, they player goes to ride chocobos right after learning the news about insomnia, and it is so jarring to hear the upbeat, happy little music while they chocobo race, knowing that this tragedy to their home just happened, and that noct (and gladius) are probably grieving for their father(s). i think it would be difficult, since this is an open-world game, i am not denying that, but not impossible.

i think having more time to explore the city and learning about the citizens, and the current political climate would also help with establishing that, while the fall of insomnia is a terrible tragedy, life outside of the insomnia is,,,pretty normal? like yes, niflheim has been invading cities around insomnia, and the king has given a lot of them willingly, but like i said above, life unfortunately and fortunately marches on. ppl still have to live their lives under a governing body that has invaded and taken them over (or as in altissa's case, made an unfavorable deal with niflheim to avoid complete loss of autonomy).

i don't think i'm asking too much of a game that obviously wanted to tell a story, but i do think some elements are probably more meant for a movie or a tv show just bc at some point they do have to focus on the game part of the game. so i can't fault it for being a game, ultimately. and i know that ffxv was in development hell for years, so i don't blame anyone here for what i wish it had been. i just think it's a shame that so much potential for strengthening the story (and the game-play mechanics) were lost. and imagining what it could've been just makes me sad lol

[soundingstars]

Noctis' Verses

Childhood: Noctis is the only child of King Regis and Queen Aulea as he was given a normal life because of the prophecy that was discovered from him being the Chosen King who was supposed to sacrifice himself to save the world.v: childhood

Teenage: With permission from his father, Noctis had the chance to live a normal life for a bit. He went to school within the city and owned his own place for a bit because of the secret that his father knew. It was during that time that Noctis did have his own freedom even though he still had to take care of royal duties and come back to the place when meetings or something else called for his presence. v: a normal life Prince: After departing from Insomnia, Noctis was heading toward Altissa to marry Lunafreya to fix the relations between their countries, but Crown City ended up being attacked causing the death of his father. This is where Noctis’ journey starts to gather royal arms and the six to help reclaim the throne that was stolen from him.v: to become king

Post-Game: After Noctis’ sacrifice, a year passed while the world was safe from the Deamons because of him bringing the light back into the world that was going to chase them away. The Six soon made a decision to return Noctis back to the world that he had sacrificed himself from though. Once he did return, he returned back to Insomnia to take his rightful place as king. v: the return of the king

Hunter: Noctis was kidnapped by an unknown threat at the age of eight which caused a massive manhunt to find him, but that ended up in failure. It was because of a hunter named Dave that he had been rescued while he was unable to get Noctis back home because of how far away he was from Insomnia. Dave decided to teach him the ropes as a hunter since it would be a way for him to make a living for himself. v: the life as a hunter

AU Verses

[enby-prompto]

[jenkatkatzilla]

Ｌｅｖｉａｔｈａｎ － ＦＦＸＶ

[savage-rhi]

Mending Shadows // Chapter 28

Summary:

Y/N was a simple Scavenger of Lucis, until meeting a deadly blow at the hands of an infected creature. At the crossroads of death, they are found by Niflheim’s cryptic Chancellor with his own agenda. Now bonded to Ardyn Izunia, and tossed into the world of Niflheim, Y/N struggles to cope with their new life as an Imperial Icon all the while battling their feelings toward their fate and that of Ardyn’s.

Click here to read on AO3

While Y/N admired Loqui for his grit, it became obvious throughout the night that it was a handicap. 

It all started once Y/N had their fill of dancing and conversation. Loqui was challenged by Accordo soldiers to a drinking game. Of course he bragged about his intelligence regarding Altissa's flora and fauna. And of course, he had been lying. 

Several drinks down the hatch, and Loqui's face was redder than the Vixen itself. He humorously attempted to apologize for his inhibition, but his words were so mangled that his manner of speaking was on par with a newborn babe grasping babble. Y/N was prepared to escort Loqui back to the residence, until the same soldiers who created this mess offered a hand. The argument being that it was only fair because they had unintentionally ruined Loqui's date. As a precaution, Tuti also joined the group. 

Y/N didn’t know how to feel about that, nor how to deal with Loqui's confession from earlier. It made them more thankful that their plan to return Loqui home wasn’t seen through. Though Loqui didn’t give the impression he’d perform anything nefarious, Y/N didn’t want to take the risk. Not when emotions were high, and certainly not when he was drunker than a skunk. 

Not long after Loqui had been tended to, Y/N snuck out of the Ceremony House and ventured into the night. The glow of lanterns and the full moon above led them down a road that eventually sprawled into a dirt path. The salty pungent odor of the beach drifted through their nostrils as the sound of waves crashing along the shore beckoned them close. At the end of the dirt path, Y/N took in the sight. The moon shimmered against the oceans surface, and highlighted the small grains of sand on the beach. It was as if the sun had never set, but instead covered itself in a dark veil. A cool wind drifted through Y/N’s hair, and they smiled. 

Bending down to their shoes, Y/N slid out of them. The relief they felt when the sand hit their feet was indescribable. They closed their eyes, letting their toes wiggle through the soft texture. It almost felt like they were back in Galdin Quay. As Y/N opened their eyes, it dawned on them how quick time had passed since they left their apartment. It contrasted with how living in Niflheim felt like an eternity. 

Y/N paid no more heed to their thoughts and began to walk toward the tide. The coast was warm, and Y/N felt the temperature welcome them via the humid whisps that the surf pulled in and out.  As soon as Y/N’s feet splashed in the water, they heard a snap. They faintly gasped and their head whisked around. At first Y/N couldn’t see anything, and had to squint. Heavy steps soon followed, and then the silhouette of messy hair came into light followed by a pair of golden eyes. 

“Ardyn?”

“It would appear you escaped,” Ardyn mused. He stepped out of the shadows, now fully cast under the moon. Much of the wrinkles on his face were hidden, smoothed out by the cool palette of the night. His lips quirked into a smile as he approached Y/N and watched their feet card through the sand. 

“Speak for yourself!” Y/N laughed in surprise. “I thought you were going to spoil Betrys for the night?” 

“Hmm?” Ardyn blinked, caught off guard for a moment. “Nothing scandalous occurred, I assure you.” 

“Then what happened? It’s only been two hours since I last saw you!" 

Ardyn shrugged. “She decided to call it off.” 

Y/N’s eyes widened before they scoffed. “I'm not buying that, given her persistence.” 

“Would I lie to you?” 

“On numerous occasions.” Y/N quipped. 

Ardyn let out a laugh. He sighed and admired the stars before answering further. 

“She called it an act of mercy," He began. "She said and I quote, ‘you have bigger problems than dealing with me tonight’.” 

It took Y/N a second to ponder on the meaning behind Betrys's statement. Their pulse began to rise at the implication. 

“So Y/N,” The softness of Ardyn's tone carried in the wind. “Do I have a problem to contend with this evening?” 

“Not unless you’re looking for one.” Y/N shivered, and quelled their nerves with a small laugh.

Ardyn raised his brows. It was obvious this wasn’t the answer he was seeking, but he chuckled nonetheless. He calmly stepped closer to Y/N, then gestured with his head for them to follow his side as they walked along the beach together.

"Are you feeling better?" 

"Pardon?" 

"During the wedding when you squeezed my hand, you looked upset. Are you better now?" 

“In many ways, I’m relieved.” Ardyn breathed. “I was ambushed from the past.” 

Y/N nodded. “I could feel through the scourge that something hit you hard.” 

Ardyn regarded Y/N for a moment. He could see the lights of the city from afar, looking like small fireflies in the distance. The image of Aera briefly crossed his path, and he averted his gaze to the sand at his shoes. 

“I was thinking of my wedding day. How Aera and I exchanged vows before the six.” He murmured bittersweetly, bending down to pick up a pebble. He tossed it up and down in his right palm. His eyes fixated on the object as a rare and genuine smile fell upon his lips. “It was a beautiful affair, the whole thing. Probably the most joyous day of my life. So simple. So weightless like this stone. The burdens of gods and men couldn't touch us. Nothing could." 

As quickly as the smile came, it left. Snuffed out like a candle that had been pinched by fast fingers. The frown on Ardyn's mouth and the sorrow in his eyes had Y/N let out a breath they had been holding. They watched as he tossed the pebble one last time into the air before throwing it out for the ocean to swallow. 

“Our union was over in just a few skips. All because of my hesitation. If I hadn't shown up to the damned citadel, and hadn't been easy on Somnus...if I hadn't been merciful in our duel, she would've..." Ardyn sighed. Unable to finish the sorrowful incantation. 

Feeling Y/N's touch suddenly upon his shoulder, Ardyn furrowed his brows. He tensed for a second, and then his own right hand reached up to settle upon Y/N's. Both soothed and incensed, mixed feelings pooled in Ardyn's stomach. 

“Am I crossing a line?” Y/N murmured. 

“No,” Ardyn replied. He could feel the fear that hung in Y/N’s voice, and his fingers gently touched over theirs. “Not in this circumstance.” 

Y/N--still unsure of themself and of his answer--slowly retreated their hand away.

Ardyn adjusted so he was fully facing Y/N. He lingered on their gown, admiring the way the moonlight above seemed to make it glow. For the briefest of moments, he was reminded of the crystal. The damned relic of the gods. He hated how this moment was tainted by his disgust, and frowned. 

“I’m sorry,” Y/N spoke up. “For kissing you at the springs.” 

“Why?” 

Y/N blinked. He sounded so calm, it was almost uncharacteristic of him. 

“I don’t know..."

“I think you do, otherwise you wouldn’t have said anything.” Ardyn stated. He glanced over their eyes and lips, softly smirking. “We have all night. So speak, and I shall listen.” 

Damn it…

He sounded so smug yet understanding, and made Y/N that much more nervous. Y/N's eyes drifted to the sand, then met the waves in the distance before getting the courage to look at Ardyn. To really look at him. So that he'd know there were no other layers that needed peeling back. 

“I’ve been feeling so much during these last months,” Y/N started. “And even though you're the one that dragged me into the heap of this mess, you're the only thing keeping me from losing what I have left."

Ardyn’s curiosity was piqued. “What do you mean by that, losing what you have left?” 

“My spirit or whatever is keeping me from walking into the ocean so I can drown.” Y/N replied. “I hate this. I hate living with the scourge inside of me. How painful it is, and knowing one day I might kill people again. Yet I hold on. It's all your fault for giving me the courage to keep fighting." 

Ardyn let Y/N’s words sink. He was unsure how to truly feel--given what he knew that Y/N didn’t--but he allowed himself to ravish in the little joy that sparked in him. 

“And here I thought you loathed the very nature of my being.” 

Y/N suppressed a laugh. “Don’t get it wrong, I still think you’re an asshole but…I like you.” 

“Yet another feeling you and I have in common.” He huffed in amusement. 

“You like me?” 

Ardyn nodded. “I have for a while now.” 

“In what manner?” 

“Finish what you started first.” He teased.

“Oh,” It dawned on Y/N they had gone off on a small tangent. Although they could argue it was Ardyn’s fault, Y/N didn’t bully him for it. They gathered up their wits before speaking. 

“I feel something toward you. It’s always been there since we bonded through the scourge. And when you talk about Aera, how much you loved her, I feel so guilty for it. I’ve been inside your head. I know what she meant to you, and I felt that when I kissed you, I spat on her memory--your memories--that you have buried underneath all that,” Y/N gestured at Ardyn’s body, emphasizing nonverbally how he was the embodiment of the scourge itself. “That’s why I’m apologizing. Does any of this make sense?” 

“Not in the slightest,” Ardyn replied. He gave Y/N a smile upon catching them furrow their brows, a subtle reassurance he was jesting before he sighed. “This was bound to happen at some point.” 

“What do you mean?” 

“Well,” Ardyn made a face, trying to find his words. “You and I share an intimacy through the scourge that can't be accounted anywhere else on this star. With the hivemind at play, and the scourge wanting unity, it's only natural that we'd feel...overwhelmed by the other at some point in time. Hence, what transpired in the bedroom. ” 

Y/N’s heart dropped. From what it sounded like, everything about their feelings toward Ardyn had been artificial. A byproduct of the scourge attempting to return to its master. The sad thing was, it made sense to Y/N. The timing, the bleed throughs, it was all connected. 

“So the scourge is feeding off our emotions just so it can become whole again.”

“More like feeding into them,” Ardyn corrected. “But you seem to understand the gist.” 

“Into them?”

Ardyn glared as if he had been confronted by a nemesis from the past. Someone who had left him to bleed out. To Y/N, he looked as if he wanted to both confront and flee from his rival, but had no strength to perform either. It surprised them when he pushed through the silence and spoke. 

“This whole week I’ve pondered the enigma between us. Each time I’ve examined the facts, I always reach the same conclusion.” Ardyn paused. Whisps of his wine colored hair drifted across his face. The cool drop in temperature offered him solace if only for a minute.  “Even with how putrid my soul has become, there’s still a root buried underneath the tainted soil. It begs to sprout though aware the rays of the sun can’t pierce the veil. Yet somehow, a little light made it’s way through the cracks. And slowly, tiny leaves have grown. Reaching out through the nothing to grasp at a morning sun.” 

Ardyn’s voice trailed as he finally stared at Y/N. The glow in his amber eyes increased, adding a ethereal presence to him that kept Y/N grounded while they stared right back. He bit the inside of his bottom lip.

“No one has bewitched me in ages. Not like this."

Y/N felt as if every blood vessel in their body had opened to the fullest extent possible. His words trudged them through the thick of their feelings. Somehow through the explosion, they fell back to Eos and replied with a whisper of uncertainty. 

“So what do we do now?" 

Ardyn’s eyes drifted over Y/N’s, drinking in what he’d allow himself to behold before capping. He had lost his vigor as the reality of his and Y/N's fate breached the surface. 

“I'm contractually bound to the vengeance I seek, just as I am bound to one day relieve you of suffering." His voice had all the confidence in the world, but the root he had spoken of refused to let go. It refused to stop sprouting for his sake. Not when it was being nurtured by hope. 

Hope…

It was such a fragile thing, yet it burdened Ardyn. No matter how hard he tried to strangle it, it couldn’t be snuffed away. Not when Y/N’s eyes regarded him. Peering at him with not the wonder of Eos, but as a human who saw through his masks and could see the man that hid in wait to be cut loose. 

“I don’t need a partner,” Ardyn confessed bitterly. He was too craven to make such a bold request, but he allowed himself one little morsel of reverie. “But...I do desire a friend.”

A woe curtly wandered into Y/N's heart, and was extinguished by joy at hearing his request. This was enough for now. It had to be. 

“I can be that for you.” 

Ardyn smiled genuinely as he shook his head. “You already have. I just blinded myself. Not wanting to acknowledge it.” 

Y/N smiled so hard it hurt, only to frown curiously when Ardyn cleared his throat. 

“I’ve noticed Commander Pierce’s boy has had an eye on you,” Ardyn began. He felt his body tense with apprehension at his own words, but proceeded. “Should you choose to pursue him, I wouldn’t hold any ill regard toward a union.” 

Y/N shook their head with a grimace. “That’s…kind of the last thing on my mind right now, but thanks.” 

Even though Ardyn tried to hide it, Y/N noticed the small victorious smile that formed upon his lips.

"So...we're friends, right?" Y/N asked to clarify. 

"It would appear so." Ardyn mused with a faint smile. 

"Is that what you want?" 

Ardyn swallowed. "Yes."

Be it the weight of the conversation, or emotions simmering down, Ardyn and Y/N proceeded to once more tread along the beach. Both were reticent while their minds settled on what had been discussed.  Y/N felt that a mass had been unburdened, but through the scourge, they still felt there was unfinished business. However, it could wait. There was no sense of urgency to pry anything more out of Ardyn. Not when he looked at peace. Y/N reveled in the sight, knowing from shared memories that he hadn't felt he could let his guard down in centuries. 

“I’ve been ruminating on an idea,” Ardyn hummed. “I believe it would benefit us both if I taught you how to heal. To learn the tools of the trade of my maternal line." 

With the near smug look Ardyn wore, Y/N was uncertain if he was pulling their leg or not. 

“Are you being serious?"

“But of course!” He chortled. 

“But why?" Y/N questioned.  "With how you talked about the tradition, it sounded like a closed practice." 

“I believe my mother broke the mold when she taught me, therefore, it’s not something to fret about.” Ardyn chuckled. He could see Y/N was still apprehensive and proceeded to explain further.  “Here is my thought process: I can't feed off you for strength and risk bleed throughs, and now we are sharing wounds through the scourge. Therefore, it would be wise if not one, but both parties were well versed in medicinal magic and it's propriety. Should circumstances go astray in future altercations, we can count on each other for back up." 

“I can't argue when you put it like that.” Y/N murmured, finding themself warming up to the idea. “To be honest, having more use than being a prized medal for Niflheim would feel great.” 

“I’m relieved we're on the same page,” Ardyn said. “When we cross back into Niflheim, we’ll begin study. I must forewarn that I’ll be more stringent with you than I have been in lessons of etiquette. Medicinal knowledge can be quite dangerous, especially in regards to plants. If you aren’t precise, it’s a sure path to death.” 

“Given the circumstances with you being immortal and me having a death wish, I didn’t think that would be an issue.” Y/N couldn’t help but quip, adding light to the conversation. They offered a nervous grin when Ardyn glared initially, before he too found humor in the jest and scoffed while playfully swiping at their shoulder. 

“I can’t afford to perish and respawn. Not when so much is lying on the table.” Ardyn admitted before he slyly added. “And for the record, you aren’t useless.” 

“That was very tender of you.” Y/N goaded. 

“Don’t go getting too attached now. As Chancellor, I can’t afford to have favorites among adoring citizens. No matter how charming they try to be.” Ardyn darkly teased. He took delight in the quibble fear that crossed Y/N’s face as he chuckled. 

“You can be a jerk sometimes, you know that?” Y/N sighed. 

“I aim to please!” 

Y/N bit the inside of their lip, trying not to laugh. The conversation at large felt childlike--idiotic in ways--but it felt right between them, and only them. 

As Y/N prepared change the subject, they stopped. Their right hand stretched to the side, blocking Ardyn at his waist. He let out a grunt, raising a concerned brow while Y/N gestured out to the waves. 

“Look!” 

At first, Ardyn didn’t see anything. From how Y/N sounded, it seemed it should’ve been obvious something was afoot. Nevertheless he couldn’t decipher what was going on. He blamed his damned vision, and regretted not having his glasses handy. He blinked a few times, and then caught it. Astonishment graced his features and his mouth fell open. 

Along the surf and into the shoreline, the ocean began to spark with little blue lights. In clusters of hundreds, they swayed through the waters and glowed with the same shine as the stars above. Like Y/N, Ardyn felt captivated by the sight. 

“It’s a plankton bloom,” Y/N whispered. Their eyes widened with childlike fascination as the waves became more illuminated by cerulean hues. “I heard about it in Lucis. These little creatures glow to attract mates or ward off predators.” 

“Messengers of Leviathan,” Ardyn murmured. He could feel Y/N’s gaze upon him as he smiled nostalgically. “That’s what we called this phenomena in my time. It’s a sign that the goddess of the sea is near, and listening to devotions.” 

In a split of a second, Y/N began to disrobe out of their formal attire. Ardyn did a double take, feeling his pulse rise into his throat. Eyes widening, he was both impressed at how quickly Y/N discarded their clothes, and felt embarrassed for suddenly gawking at them. 

“Y/N, what are you--” Before he could protest, Ardyn watched in horror as Y/N rushed toward the water. Their earlier words of fighting temptation to toss themselves into the waves and drown echoed in his mind. He felt fear grapple in his chest as he began to sprint after them and shouted. 

“Y/N!” 

“I always wanted to do this!” Y/N gleefully exclaimed like a kid who had discovered magic again in the world.

The euphoria in their voice had Ardyn stop in his tracks once his boots hit the foam of the shoreline. Startled, he observed Y/N dived into the waves, and watched them rise. The plankton surrounding them disappeared, and then returned in a captivating swirl of blues as Y/N chased down the specks. Ardyn sighed in relief once the adrenaline died down. 

He watched the spectacle for a time, finding delight in Y/N’s bliss. There was a moment where Ardyn could've sworn he heard Aera's laugh. Fear traveled through him. Perhaps Leviathan was near--messing with his mind. He felt paralyzed as darkness began to dwell in his heart. As quick as it came, Ardyn felt his anger dwindle when he saw Y/N stop in their tracks. 

Standing waist deep in the water, Ardyn watched Y/N extend a hand out in welcome with the biggest of grins anyone could muster. 

"Come join me!" 

"I don't think so!" Ardyn shouted. 

"Why not?" Y/N hollered back with a laugh. 

Ardyn made a face. "Remember our conversation about large bodies of water?"

"Oh yeah, that's right!" Y/N laughed. "You're terrified!" 

Ardyn stumbled. He growled under his breath. "I'm not frightened!" 

"Then what's stopping you?" Y/N countered as a wave knocked them forward. 

Ardyn had to admit Y/N had him there. He wasn't sure what it was, but the compulsion to join grew more and more with each passing second. It was maybe a minute before Ardyn made his choice. He began to disrobe out of his layers, tossing his articles of clothing on top of Y/N's. Down to his pants, Ardyn took in a deep breath, and bolted toward Y/N. He ignored how both refreshing and cold the water was as the ocean began to hug his torso the further he went. 

Upon meeting Y/N, Ardyn grabbed a hold of Y/N's hand to stabilize himself. A laugh was shared as he jumped from a small wave pushing him to the left. 

"See? Not so bad!" Y/N exclaimed. "I owe you one for this!" 

"In that case," Ardyn shot Y/N a devious grin. He was absolutely eating up the dread that crossed over Y/N's eyes. "Allow me to take you dancing again!"

“What do you mean by aga--ahh!” 

Ardyn snickered as he flung Y/N headfirst into the water. Y/N rose to the surface and attempted to return the favor but with little luck. The two laughed as Ardyn struggled against Y/N's grasp before he fell backwards; taking himself and Y/N down with him. Their bodies tumbled as the current pulled them further into the sea. It took them a moment to register they had gone into deeper territory, and on instinct they held hands and remained close. 

Holding their breaths, Ardyn and Y/N glanced through the darkness. The ocean felt like another universe, where gravity and the world of men held no bounds. The ambience of such feelings were further inflamed when the plankton once more made their presence known. Thousands of small bodies lit up like city lights and illuminated both Ardyn and Y/N while they swam together. Both admired witnessing such a natural majesty for a time, until Y/N pulled from Ardyn and caught a handful of the plankton in their hands. A pure glow surrounded their fingertips and highlighted their features. 

As Ardyn floated near in awe, he had an epiphany. Had he been the once pious man he was known for, he would've felt the six shining through Y/N. There was something magical about this moment that stunned him. Almost as if Eos had forgiven him of all trespass. 

Y/N turned their head and smiled at him. Ardyn returned a soft expression as he saw small bubbles leave their nostrils. He hoped that when he died, if there was an afterlife that awaited, he could take this snapshot with him to the grave. With that thought having left, he swam forward. The two encircled the other as they kicked through the plankton and followed the light back to the beach. 

Gasping for air upon rising, Y/N relied on Ardyn as he coaxed both their bodies into shallow waters. Once they were in water that was up to their knees, they stopped to catch their bearings. 

In between breaths, Y/N met Ardyn's eyes as he moved his hair out from his face. He smiled at them with a sincerity that had unintentionally caused the dams in Y/N to break. Their throat clutched as they started to sob. 

“Y/N?” 

“I’m sorry,” 

“Y/N…” He began to look them over, checking for any signs of wounds. When Ardyn found nothing, it dawned on him that Y/N was suffering from injuries of the heart. Though concerned, he remained neutral. "What's wrong?" 

"Nothing," Y/N shook their head with a sniffle. They smiled at him, trying to tamper down whatever this was. “This is the happiest I’ve been in a long time. That's all.” 

Ardyn frowned as the scourge told him everything he needed to know. The emotions were fleeting, but Ardyn honed in. He hadn't felt the fear of mortality in ages, and through Y/N, he could feel how it slowly breathed along their neck; reminding them that this was it, and to cherish what little happiness had come their way. Being immortal, Ardyn himself longed for death, and up to this point, assumed Y/N held no qualms regarding their fate. He couldn't have been more wrong, and in a way it hurt him, but in a matter that felt even foreign to the likes of himself. 

With no further words, Ardyn pulled Y/N into his chest and embraced them. His heart stammered as he felt Y/N hold onto him as if the gods would strike them down at any time. Burying his face some into Y/N's dampened hair, he whispered all the comforts one could give. All the things he would've said to Aera had she been in the throes of existential dread. 

“Shhh..." Ardyn murmured throughout. He let out a small grunt, feeling Y/N's cheek against his chest. “What may come of us, we’ll be alright. Do you trust me?” 

Y/N nodded weakly. They shuddered as Ardyn continued to soothe them, and managed to peer up into his gaze. 

“There you are!” He smiled. 

Y/N didn't know what was so funny, but they grinned as a laugh came and went. They felt one of Ardyn's hands retreat from their waist as he settled it upon their cheek. His touch was cold, but the warmth he emitted made up for it. As the panic began to dwindle, Y/N let out a breath as they gazed over him. 

“Friends don’t hug each other like this.” Y/N murmured

“True, but we're an exception.” Ardyn mused. He felt a tremor run through Y/N’s body, and chuckled darkly. “Do you have regrets now, about your little stunt to swim out here?"

“Maybe a bit,” Y/N admitted with a tired laugh. They could feel their body growing colder by the second. “Maybe we should get out.” 

“I think that’s an excellent idea,” Ardyn smiled. He gave the side of Y/N’s face a gentle squeeze with his palm before taking them by the hand and leading them back to the beach.

“Let’s get you warm."

[itsgeecheebitch]

TITLE: Until Darkness Descends

CHAPTER: 45/47

FANDOM: Final Fantasy XV

SERIES: The Fall Part 1 of 4

MAIN PAIR: Ardyn Izunia x Reader

SEC PAIR: Gladiolus Amicitia x Reader

Feeling guilty was an understatement. It felt like there was a weight in your chest, pinching the artery where your heart resided and threatened to tear it out of your skin. You stared at the ground, trying and failing to ignore that stab of shame that shot through your gut.

You were a terrible person. You had a loving boyfriend who cared about you, who didn’t abandon you for two whole years, and you spat in the face of his love. And all for what? A quick fuck with a man you should’ve crossed out of your life a long time ago.

Sighing, you kicked a pebble, waiting for the regalia to come barreling down the road. Today was the day you and your friends would set sail for Altissa, a hopeful day that was supposed to occupy your every thought. But instead all you could think about was that dread that felt like a knife lodged in your throat.

The thought of seeing your friends, of possibly seeing Gladiolus, set your skin on fire with hungry maggots. You couldn’t face them, not after what you’ve done. You betrayed them. You betrayed Gladiolus. You did nothing to stop it, nothing to resist. Your eyes welled with tears that you’ve forcibly blinked away.

Now that you thought about it, you hadn’t been faithful to Gladiolus. Not for a long time, if ever. You thought you only loved him, but as that sex dream revealed, your incessant obsession over it for the past two years, your heart had always belonged to someone else. The truth was your relationship with Gladiolus was probably doomed from the start.

If your visions were to be believed, then you and Ardyn were in love once. You were married and were going to start a family together. More than likely you were destined to fall in love again, but where did that leave Gladiolus? Out in the cold, betrayed and heartbroken. Maybe….maybe last night was a good thing. It gave you the pressure you needed to end the relationship that should’ve never started in the first place.

But could you do it? Could you really look Gladiolus in the eye and tell him you were in love with someone else, that he wasted two whole years of his life on a woman who could never fully be his? You would lose him forever.

You choked on a sob that filated the inside of your throat. He would hate you. They would all hate you. You’ve made a huge mistake. Burying your face in your hands, you tried and failed at stopping the tears from falling down your face. You should’ve never dated Gladiolus. If only you could go back in time and tell him you just wanted to remain friends, then you could’ve spared him of this heartbreak.

The moment you broke things off with him, the moment he found out the reason why, everything would fall apart. Just as that dream predicted. Maybe it wasn’t just a hormone-induced dream but a warning. A perverse sign from the heavens warning you that you already belonged to another man, and choosing a lover that wasn’t him would lead to disaster.

You should’ve listened.

Ten minutes passed when you finally gathered yourself. Your tears were dry and you were sure your eyes were as red as a sore, but at least you stopped crying in time for the regalia to arrive. The sleek majesty of the vehicle strolled down the busy city street, glistening gold wherever the morning sun touched it.

You plastered on a smile that felt as flimsy as paper mache. Much to your dismay, but none to your surprise, Gladiolus was in the car. Seeing him there was like a gush of water dissolving the glue that was barely keeping your facade together. Your smile wavered, but you spread it wider till your cheeks burned with the effort.

Hopping into the car, they took off. Your friends did implore you on the state of your eyes, which you attributed to a case of morning allergies. Surprisingly, none of them questioned it, their minds on other things, like reaching Caem uninterrupted, and your impending journey.

The car hit a bump in the road and caused you to jostle against Gladiolus. The reminder that he was there, the entire side of his body pressed against yours, caused guilt to drip onto your organs like inky tar, making you truly feel like you were shriveling up from the inside. Knowing that you would have to tell him what you've done, and soon, only made the feeling worse.

Needing a distraction, you summoned the black book. The yellow brittle pages greeted you but you found no solace in the mostly faded words. Your mind was like a live wire, constantly sparking and deadly to the touch. You sighed, your shoulders drooping when Prompto turned around in his seat.

“Learned anything new?” He asked.

You looked up at him without really seeing him, your mind on the dismal future barreling towards you at hyper speeds. “No….” You said, melancholy painting your voice.

He pursed his lips. His brows knitted together in a way that made alarm rise in your body like water on the verge of boiling in a whistling pot. Clearing your throat, you smoothed the world-weary lines from your forehead and spoke as unaffectedly as you could. “Apparently this book is nothing but a myth explaining how daemons came to be in our world.” You made a point out of excluding where you got the information from. Even the mere thought of his name made your anxiety spew from your pores. What if they could smell it?

Noctis tilted his head, resting his temple on his balled fist. “That doesn't make sense.” He said, “Daemons have only been around for fifty years, so how could people from 2,000 years ago know anything about them?”

“Perhaps Eos suffered from a daemon infestation before.” Ignis joined in. “Somehow they found a way to get rid of them. but it's unclear how they returned.”

You looked down at the large book in your hands. It never occured to you that daemons could've possibly existed before. But it wasn't like that was your analysis after reading the book. You thought it detailed Eos’ battle with a strange illness, one that affected the appearance of the infected so badly it drove those in power to slaughter them. Ice ran down your spine at the thought, thinking about all those poor people who were sentenced to death by fire.

Sighing, you considered Ignis' theory. If this book isn't an account of an unnamed plague, or an ancient origin myth, then how did Eos come to host daemons before? The answer came to you like a strike of lightning. “Adagium.” You said out loud. That's it. That had to be it. You flew through the pages until you landed upon the passage you were looking for. “This book details no mere myth. It tells us right here how they would come back and they have.”

You read the passage out loud to your friends. Each word rolled off your tongue with a meaning you had been blinded to before. Whatever this Adagium was, it was responsible for the creation of daemons. You weren't sure how or why, but if Ignis’ theory was true then it was the reason why daemons roamed the planet before and why they've returned. That only left you with two questions, why did Ardyn claim this was a myth and why did the first readable passage mention what you could only gather was the meteor? Did the meteor also have something to do with the emergence of daemons?

As the last word left your lips, Noctis hummed, staring at the book with furrowed brows. “I think I heard my dad use that name before, but I didn't think much about it then.”

“Perhaps it's of great importance.” Came Ignis again.

“Then why not spread the word about it?” Prompto asked.

Ignis frowned. “I'm not sure, maybe his late majesty did not want to risk public unease. Especially if this Adagium turns out to be the name of a disease, as you've suggested before, Aera.” He referred to you.

“But a disease that causes what?” Gladiolus asked, the wind coming through his jet black hair.

You thought about it for a moment. Once the answer came to you, your heart jolted to a halt and barreled through your spine. “Daemonification…” You whispered, as though saying it any louder would make the theory all too real. You don't know why you hadn't considered it before. People's physical appearances changed, but that could've easily meant anything. Sores and pox could change a person's appearance depending on the severity of the illness. It made sense that daemonification wouldn't have been your first guess. But when you added this mysterious Adagium into the equation, it made it obvious that there was a supernatural element involved.

“How come we haven't turned into daemons? we've fought a ton of them and yet we're fine” Prompto asked. That little question was enough to deconstruct your entire theory. He was right. If daemons were just infected humans then how come you and your friends hadn't fallen ill as well? The five of you had many close encounters with daemons over the last few weeks, enough to bring you in contact with some type of pathogen. Unless one didn't exist and you were analyzing the book all wrong.

You slouched your shoulders, your previous excitement gone. As if noticing your changed disposition, Ignis said, “even so, this theory is worth looking into at a later time. It may not be an accurate depiction of the truth, but it may surely lead us to it.” With that the conversation was over and the boys went back to aimlessly viewing the scenery. A rock song played on the radio, the base pelted against your chest and reminded you of that soul-crushing dread you tried so hard to distract yourself from.

Beside you, Gladiolus shifted and draped his arm over your shoulders. You were back in hell again.

[chippersweetbaby]