Chapter 16
Noctis waited in the meeting room, fingers tapping nervously against the table. It had been one week since Ignis' official resignation, during which time Noct had continued to rule without an advisor. He had relied on his council to guide him on any urgent matters, but avoided making any major decisions until a new advisor stepped into the role.
It had been a difficult search. Noctis had reached out for recommendations regarding those who might be good candidates for the position. He had even pursued a few leads, only to be politely turned down. When it had started to seem like it might be impossible to fill Ignis' shoes, one of the men Claustra had recommended contacted the Citadel by means of a letter, expressing interest. Noctis glanced at his watch. That man was due to arrive any minute. Despite Noct's eagerness to find someone who would help implement his ideas, he'd still been dreading this meeting all morning, especially with those awkward feelings of guilt swirling about inside him. He tried to remind himself that letting Ignis go had been the correct choice at the time, and that this new advisor could be the change he needed to start making things right.
And for once, things were going right. This potential candidate had passed all the initial screening tests with flying colours, had passed security checks, and had work experience in a government position, which Noctis hoped would bring new insights to the monarchy. Noct had made his apology to the glaives, things were good between him and Prompto. Right now, he couldn't complain.
The door finally swung open, and two glaives entered with their hands behind their backs, escorting another man who looked to be in his late thirties or early forties. His face was worn and scarred, and his short, light brown hair was cut close to his scalp. Short bangs came an inch or so down his forehead, hanging far above pale blue eyes.
"You must be here about the advisor position," Noctis said, standing up from his chair as the man entered. Graciously, he waved to the seat adjacent to him, directing him to his destination. The man gave a grateful nod and proceeded forward, accepting the king's offer for a handshake.
"Dolosus Duglasi, at your service. It is an absolute pleasure to meet you, Your Majesty," the potential advisor smiled, and Noctis smiled warmly back.
"The pleasure is mine. Shall we sit?"
The two took their seats, and adjusted themselves comfortably before Noctis folded his hands atop the table. He watched the two glaives as they went to stand guard at the door, remaining within the room to ensure the king's utmost safety. With the Relicta's whereabouts unknown, Noct couldn't be too careful.
While his Shield would have been one of the obvious choices for today's personal guards, Noct hadn't wanted Gladio nor Prompto involved. With emotions still running high after Ignis' departure, he knew they couldn't approach this meeting with a clear head. Truth be told, it would be difficult for Noctis, too, but he was going to do his best, especially when this advisor might help him achieve his goals regarding Prompto. The sooner he got someone who supported them in their relationship, the sooner Prompto might feel at ease—maybe even enough to reconsider his proposal.
"You come very highly recommended, as far as the people in Accordo are concerned. I understand you were a member of the government for a while over in their region?"
"Thank you, Your Majesty. Yes, I was, for quite some time."
"Any particular reason you wanted to relocate?"
"I'm originally from Tenebrae. I was an only child, and my father raised me on his own. When I was quite young, he took me to Accordo to try to avoid the war, hoping that it would be safer for us there, since the empire's focus seemed to be mostly on Lucian regions. He'd always had his heart set on living in Lucis. He loved the landscapes. Used to talk about them all the time. Unfortunately, his wish to live here didn't come true before he died," Dolosus explained.
"So, this is like coming home for you? You're living out your father's dream?" Noct queried, his tone gentle and understanding.
"Yes, that's the gist of it. I have the utmost respect for Secretary Claustra, but my heart calls me to Lucis. My duty is here. If I can help get this beautiful kingdom back on its feet, then I will most certainly do what I can. I believe it would have made my father proud," the man went on.
"Glad to hear it," Noctis smiled. He could certainly relate to that strong will to please his own father, even though he was long gone—gone from this realm, at least.
"Now, there are a few things I'd like to discuss right off the bat so that I know where you stand on the matters. A couple of members of my council have already briefed you on some of what has been going on, correct?"
"Yes, they have, Your Majesty."
"Then you probably know about what happened with my kingsglaive recently while out on the hunts I'd assigned them. I've decided to abort those missions for the time being, as I'm currently in a position where I can manage without that small profit, but I am going to need some other form of income in the near future. I need to finish rebuilding my kingdom, and I also require a way to provide resources that I promised to places like Galahd. We've been stalling for a while now, and people aren't going to get any happier if they are forced to keep waiting for our aid," Noctis said, appearing perturbed.
"Okay," Dolosus hummed, head bobbing slowly in thought.
"It was suggested to me that I raise the taxes on the land to gather more income. Problem is, if I do that, I know people will be forced to relocate. The citizens of Lucis are still recovering from the events of the past decade. They can't afford to pay more, and they shouldn't have to. I want to give them their home back, not make it too expensive for them. What would you suggest?"
"Well, instead of raising the taxes, are there any resources here that are exclusive to Lucis from which you could make a profit? Something that other regions would purchase?"
"Hmm… The first thing that comes to my mind is Lucian tomatoes," Noct admitted, chuckling softly with amusement. Dolosus snapped his fingers in agreement, grinning.
"That's exactly what I'm talking about. Something unique that could create revenue. Anything else you can think of?"
"Hmm… Lucian carp and catfish."
"And you could also include Leiden potatoes and peppers," Dolosus reminded him.
"That's excellent, actually," Noctis agreed, his heart feeling lighter already.
"If you were to create a farming district here in Lucis, that would create not only more means for trading and selling resources to other nations, but would also create more job opportunities for the citizens. Local farmers, construction workers... Many people could play a part in this."
"Yeah, being a city boy myself, I guess I never thought about farming or produce on such a large scale, but that could be really helpful," Noct smiled.
"I'm glad you think so, Your Majesty."
"Now, the other issue that has arisen because of these hunts with the glaives is the possibility that some of them might abandon. I have a very reliable source that told me the glaives lost some faith in me after they were attacked, and although I have made a formal apology to them, I still fear that some may leave. Any suggestion on what I should do if that happens?"
"Well, you could always recruit new members. Using television, posters, and similar media could work to entice people."
"The other problem is, financially, I'm not in a position to support a much larger staff at this time."
"So, don't pay the new glaives in cash or cheques, Your Majesty. Offer them food and housing for the first few years of service. As you've said, many people are still recovering from the last ten years, and have little means to support themselves. Trade them housing in exchange for their services. I guarantee you, many will be grateful for it."
Noctis blinked as he pondered, one hand coming to rest against his bearded chin, thumb stroking the stubble pensively. He lowered his head, thinking of Fae, who was the perfect example of someone in that position. Prompto had asked him to give her a permanent home here at the Citadel in exchange for her service, and as far as he knew, she had been happy with his agreement to such terms. Although she was one of those also being paid for her services, others with no family and no home could still easily find comfort in such an agreement; in exchange for doing some standard guard duty, they would be granted three meals a day and a roof over their heads.
"That certainly sounds reasonable. Worth a try, at least," Noctis agreed, smiling as his problems were potentially solved, one by one. The next issue, however, would be the deal-breaker; this one was the closest to his heart.
"My final question to you is about a matter that's very personally close to me," Noctis started, swallowing the fear that had made his voice a little weak. Dolosus sat forward in his seat and mirrored Noctis' position with his hands folded in front of him on the table as he listened intently.
"Fifteen years ago, I fell for a young man for whom I continue to care deeply. He was born in Niflheim, but was raised a Lucian, having come here when he was only a year old. I've been told it would be unwise for us to marry, that it would create political turmoil, prevent me from producing an heir, and would lose me the remaining respect of my people. What is your opinion on this? And please, I need you to be entirely honest."
Noctis pressed his palms flat together and brought them against his lips, almost wanting to hide from the answer, but needing to hear it anyway. He held his breath, waiting while the man pondered the situation with a deep inhale.
"While there is a chance it could create political turmoil, I believe this could be presented to the public in a way that does the opposite. People came together when the world was in ruin. Of course, there will always be those who are prejudiced, but I think a lot of stigmas towards the citizens of Niflheim have fallen by the wayside. Your marriage could be a symbol of peace, one that shows it does not matter your origins. In the end, we are all the same," the man said. Noctis nodded, but when his eyes continued to show some fear or uncertainty, Dolosus continued on.
"As far as producing an heir goes, I would say, yes, you will eventually need to think about that, but technology these days certainly gives you options."
"You think so?" Noct quirked a nervous brow.
"I do. And lastly, I don't think you will ever lose the respect of your people, Your Majesty, so long as you do what you can to provide for them, and continue to be generous towards other nations as well, just as you have done thus far."
Noctis hummed, and gave a smile, lowering his hands from his mouth. He knew the man was probably just telling him what he wanted to hear, but he hoped there was some level of sincerity to his words.
"Thank you for that, Mr. Duglasi. I'm certainly trying. So, personally, do you have any qualms about a union between Lucis and Niflheim, as opposed to, say, Lucis and Tenebrae or Accordo?"
"No, certainly no qualms, Your Majesty. Tenebrae, Accordo, Niflheim... None of them have an official monarch anymore, so it makes the most sense for you to marry whomever your heart desires. In addition, being a king who marries for love could quite possibly earn you a lot of respect on its own. It is a sign of an honest and open king, and I feel that may make people warm up to you."
"I wish with all my heart that could be the case," Noct breathed.
"It can be, Your Majesty, so long as your rapport is framed the right way to the public. And I would be happy to work with you on such a matter. "
"Thank you, Mr. Duglasi, for your insights and optimism."
"Dolosus is fine, Your Majesty."
"Dolosus? Alright," Noctis said, before he pushed his chair back and got to his feet. The other man followed immediately after, and Noctis held a hand out to him again.
"Dolosus, if you would, I would like you to sign this. It gives us permission to do a thorough background check, and it's also your agreement to get fingerprints taken with the local authorities. Once you've successfully completed the full security screening, I would like to do a trial period with you. If after three months, you have proven to be what I am looking for in an advisor, the job is officially yours."
"Really? I am so honored, Your Majesty. Thank you so much for this opportunity," Dolosus said, his blue eyes slitting as he smiled widely. Noctis pushed forward the contract and pen that had been on the table since the start of the meeting, and Dolosus quickly scanned it and signed it.
"Don't let me down," Noctis smiled, with a small downward quirk of his brows to indicate that he wasn't kidding.
"I will not, Your Majesty. Thank you again," Dolosus said before being met by the same glaive who had escorted him inside. With a nod and a smile, Noctis gave the cue to escort him out.
"You are dismissed as well. Thank you for your presence," Noct said, addressing the remaining glaive who stood against the wall. He bowed in response before exiting, and Noctis sat down again, relieved to be alone with his thoughts.
It came as no surprise to him that less than a minute later, Prompto and Gladio were hovering in the doorway, and Noctis looked up to see them looking like curious children, wondering if they were allowed to enter. Noctis sighed, and waved them in, not particularly eager to hear what their reactions would be when they discovered he'd actually found a potential candidate.
"How did that go?" Prompto asked, as he and Gladio came to stand behind the long stretch of seats. Prompto gripped the back of his chair tightly, not sure he wanted to know the answer, but needing to, regardless.
"Well, he answered all the questions to my satisfaction. I'm going to do a trial period with him once security gives the all-clear," Noctis said, unable to ignore the looks of slight disappointment on his friend's faces—but maybe that was because they weren't trying to hide those looks at all.
"So, you two seem to be on the same page?" Prompto asked, and Noct nodded.
"About you and Prompto, too?" Gladio quizzed next, knowing that was the question Prompto had wanted to ask in the first place.
"Yeah, he definitely seems to think we can work with it, which is a big load off my mind," Noctis said, letting out a breath of relief.
"For sure," Gladio agreed. Although it killed him to know that Ignis and Noctis were at odds, he also couldn't shake that idea that Prompto would be gone before they knew it. He stood by his belief that if Prompto and Noctis could enjoy even a short reign together, it was far kinder to let them do so than to fight them on it.
Noctis got up from his seat and stretched his arms above his head, giving a yawn, as the day had already exhausted him. He stepped away from his seat and reached for Prompto's back, his hand lightly rubbing between his shoulder blades.
"So, what happens now?" Gladio asked.
"Well, I guess we just get a move on the security screening process. Gladio, would you mind taking this to Cor? He'll get the ball rolling," Noctis said, handing over the contract that was on the table.
"Gotcha," Gladio agreed, accepting the papers. "So, when do we get to meet him? This new advisor guy, I mean?"
That question earned a somewhat incredulous laugh from Noctis.
"No offense, but I'm not in a huge rush for that to happen. I want him to settle in here before anyone starts making him feel like he's Ignis 2.0, who has to prove whether or not he's better," Noct said, with only a bit of sarcasm.
"Aw, come on, we wouldn't do that," Prompto whined.
"Eh, we might do that," Gladio smirked, earning a wide-eyed glance from Prompto. "I'll see you guys later, then," he said, dismissing himself with a nod.
"And what about me? Anything I can help with?" Prompto asked, turning to face Noct a little better, while Noct's hand remained on his back, continuing its gentle touch.
"I just want you to focus on that list of yours, okay? It will take a few days before the new advisor starts, but he might be able to get us out of this bad financial situation. Once that happens, I want us to be able to just get up and go when a good opportunity arises," Noctis explained.
"I'm kind of stuck when it comes to ideas, Noct," Prompto admitted. "Whenever I think about writing things down, it… I don't know, it just makes me sad."
"Then don't think about it for what it is. Think about it like it's just another roadtrip, where it's only you and me, and you get to pick the destinations. It's all about having fun, okay?"
Prompto hummed a response, but it was noncommittal, the intonation in his voice making it sound like he was unsure. Noctis stepped closer to him, his arm reaching further around Prompto's back to grip his shoulder. He held his other hand flat out in front of them, moving it in an ark as if painting an invisible picture.
"If you and I were twenty years old again, with no obligations, and no worries about our future, where would you want us to go? What would you want to do? What were your aspirations back then?" Noctis asked, hoping it might get Prompto's mind on a happier track. Prompto's gaze was unfocused as he stared past Noctis' hand, and Noctis watched the worried frown on Prompto's face slowly dissipate, the corners of his lips curling up into a tiny smile instead.
"You keep thinking about it, okay?" Noctis murmured, pressing a kiss to Prompto's cheek, then a second one, but Prompto turned his head in time for him to meet his lips instead. Noctis smiled in slight surprise, before closing his eyes and letting himself enjoy the kiss. When Prompto pulled back, he watched with a smile as Noctis' eyes drifted lazily open.
"I can't believe the guy who used to fall asleep drooling on my chest has become such a gentleman," Prompto smiled, his voice soft and sincere, but Noctis scoffed.
"I didn't drool," he defended himself, closing his eyes and sticking his nose up in the air. Prompto chuckled lightly.
"My shirts said otherwise, but whatever. That part about being a gentleman? I mean it, and just… Thanks, Noct. I thought I could deal with all of this on my own, but I'm glad I don't have to. I'm glad you're here." Noctis reached for the side of Prompto's face, and dragged his fingers along until they reached his chin. Prompto tilted his head, giving Noct an alluring little stare.
"Well, that's good, 'cause I'm afraid you're stuck with me, love," Noct said, in that velvety voice of his before Prompto raced him to another kiss.
It was later that afternoon when Noctis was startled by the ding of his phone, interrupting him from doing up his latest report. He didn't mind, especially when he thought it might be Prompto alerting him that he was done of his guard duties for the day. As he clicked on the unread message, however, he realized it had been from Gladio. His heart still leapt when he read its contents.
Message received at 3:43pm
Gladiolus Amicitia: Hey, I know it took me forever to remember to send you this, but here's that slideshow I mentioned before. The one that Prompto made for you. Thought you'd probably still wanna see it. Glad this new advisor guy is gonna help you two navigate through these tricky times. I know you'll make it work.
Noctis felt his lips curl up into a small smile of gratitude, as his thumb continued to scroll through his phone. Below Gladio's message was a black box with a triangular play button over it. The video was all loaded and ready to play, but Noctis knew he would need a few minutes to prepare his heart for this. Gladio had indicated that Prompto had poured his heart and soul into this video, after all.
Noct abandoned his half-written report, stuffed his phone in his pocket, and left his study, heading for his destination outside. He made his way through the garden, his feet leading the way across the brown cobblestone path, past the tiny stone gazebo, fountain, and outdoor table and chair set. He followed the path to the left, weaving through a maze of flowers—purples, yellows, blues, reds, whites. The gardeners really had done a wonderful job of salvaging what little foliage had survived the fall of Insomnia and years without sunlight, and had exceeded Noctis' expectations for replanting and regrowing this spectacular garden that Noct remembered from his childhood.
He continued on until he reached the centre of the garden, which opened up into a wide circle filled with grass. This was a more private part of the garden—far from the area that he'd shared with Prompto and Fae the week before. A few gravestones were scattered among the circle—one painfully familiar, and the others eerily foreign to him.
His mother's grave was one he'd visited often. When he was young, he used to sneak out here not only as an escape from his royal duties, but also to simply visit with his mother. He would sit there cross-legged, tracing his small fingers over her name's engraving on the stone. He wondered what wonderful parts of her his infant mind had forgotten. He wondered if she watched over him, even now that he was fully grown. Noctis bravely proceeded forward, trailing a hand gracefully over the top of her gravestone, letting her know he was there.
"Hi, Mom," he whispered. His hand slid off the side of her stone and hovered in the space between that slab of granite and the next. It took a lot of coercing his hand onto the next stone, and this one was much colder to the touch—it seemed that way, at least.
"Hi, Dad." His voice was much weaker this time.
He gazed down at the stone where his father's name was written, along with the words: Loving father, treasured friend, beloved king. Noctis lowered his hand to brush over the letters, blurry-eyed.
"Yeah. That was you, huh?" he smiled, softly, sniffling.
It was the first time he'd gotten up the nerve to actually see it for himself. Cor, Dustin, and Monica, had played a part in the headstone decisions; Noctis was proud of the job they had done. The words suited his father perfectly. He gave the stone a longing glance before he proceeded to the next row of graves.
Like the first, this row was home to two headstones side-by-side. The first was Noctis', on which only his name had been engraved, sometime while he had been in the crystal. He knew his friends—who had drawn from his magics—hadn't lost hope in him, and believed he would return, but Cor had ordered the engraving on the off-chance that Noct wouldn't be back. Noctis knew it was fair; he was to sacrifice himself after his return anyway, so preparing a grave for him seemed logical.
He knelt before the eery sight of his own name on the headstone, but smiled weakly as he spied the tiny gifts that had been left at the foot of his grave. The stems of bouquets that had blossomed and wilted, a fish keychain, a strip of prize coupons from the arcade he used to visit, and the first selfie Prompto had taken of the two of them during their roadtrip—gifts all evidently from Prompto.
He couldn't help but wonder how often Prompto had visited this place. He couldn't imagine how dangerous it must have been to venture back here when the city had consisted of nothing but blackouts and daemons. Prompto had risked life and limb to bring him these gifts, and that alone made Noctis' love for him flood through his body, filling him with the purest feelings of endearment.
Yes, this was the perfect spot for Noct to watch his slideshow—in the peaceful garden, with his parents beside him, and physical proof of Prompto's love before him. Besides, this was the location where Prompto had intended the show to be viewed; it was where Gladio and Ignis had seen it for the first time, and where he'd hoped Noct's spirit would somehow see it as well.
Taking a deep breath, Noct reached for the phone in his pocket. He clicked to his previous text from Gladio to where the slideshow displayed paused on the screen. Fighting against trepidation, he pressed the play button, both hands gripping his phone as he watched.
"Alright, Noct. Smile for the camera," came Prompto's sing-song voice, the screen still black.
"You kidding me? It's my birthday, don't I get a say in this?" Noct grumpily retorted.
"Nah-uh." The sound of a camera click sounded, and a picture of the two of them faded in from black. Noctis was sitting at the kitchen table in his apartment, with his arms folded and a pointed, coloured party hat on his head. Ignis and Gladio were behind him with noisemakers in their hands, and Prompto was halfway between Noct and the camera with his arms outstretched, grinning so widely his eyes were closed.
As a soft piano piece began to play—a tune Noctis recognized as one they'd danced to together in the ballroom the night of their school prom—the picture dissolved into a video of that same birthday party. The video's original audio was muted, and Ignis and Gladio were shown chatting with each other at the kitchen counter. Prompto was obviously behind the camera, and he zoomed in on each of them before focusing in on the decadent, candle-covered chocolate cake intended for Noctis. Prompto poked his head into the camera's view, and grinned, pointing to the cake and giving a thumbs-up before disappearing again.
He guided the camera around to Noctis next who was sitting in the kitchen chair, chin in his hand, looking rather unimpressed. He seemed to jump—probably when Prompto spoke to him—and he waved wildly at the camera lens, not wanting to be recorded in such a ridiculous party hat. That was definitely princely blackmail.
Noctis laughed at the memory as he watched it play out before him, feeling emotion rise into his chest. It was a light feeling, yet it felt like it might swallow his lungs.
The video blurred into a new image—Noctis on the end of the dock in Galdin Quay, fishing rod in hand, looking back at Prompto as he snapped the photo. It faded into a picture of him and Prompto in front of an arcade machine, arms around each other's shoulders, and grinning at the camera screen. The next was of the four of them outside the Citadel the day Prompto had completed his Crownsguard training.
The slideshow continued, taking Noctis back in time to so many fun and precious moments. Him and Prompto in the snow one day when school had been cancelled, him smiling in the Crow's Nest Diner, the four of them at the top of the Rock of Ravatogh, Prompto kissing him on a motel rooftop, him kissing Prompto by the fountain in Lestallum at the Assassin's Festival. It was only three minutes, but it took him through a hundred memories, and as it faded to black, he found himself choking back sobs.
He pressed the phone tight against his chest, clinging to it like it might help him cling to the memories. It was a beautiful gift, one he would forever keep in his heart. It was solid proof that he and Prompto had always loved each other; he felt comforted by the idea that they most likely loved each other even more now. If his new advisor was right, then maybe a true, honest, real love like theirs would be something his people would appreciate—even admire.
He reached out to the gravestone beside his own, the one that had long ago been set aside for whoever might one day be his spouse. Fingers locking around the stone, he used it to help himself up off the ground. He brushed himself off and continued to stare at the blank granite.
He didn't know what the future might bring, whether he and Prompto might one day find eternal rest alongside each other here in this garden, or how painfully soon those days may come, but he knew one thing for certain. Prompto had given him the blessing of knowing what it was like to love someone with every part of his soul, and he would forever be grateful for it. Whatever the world had in store for them, Noct felt confident that they could handle it. Together. Until the end.
"Prompto," he whispered, turning his head toward the sky. "Thank you."
Several days passed, and Noctis had heard nothing more about Prompto's list. Life had gotten busy. From looking over paperwork, keeping up with his daily hearings, continuing to monitor progress on Dolosus' security clearance, and filling out the final paperwork for Ignis' leave of absence, Noct was pretty well run off his feet. It was one of those nights where he was stuck in his study. He had looked over so many documents that day, his vision was actually starting to blur.
"Hey, Noct? You have a minute?" Prompto asked, knocking timidly on the door to the study. The rounded room was dark, the dozens of bookshelves barely visible, despite the plain, yellow lamp that sat upon the desk for illumination. Noctis looked up from the stack of paperwork, peering at Prompto from above his thin, gold-framed glasses.
"For you, always," he smiled, gently. He finished making a note as Prompto quietly closed the door behind him, and dropped his pen as Prompto came around to his side of the desk.
"I've been working on my list," he announced, holding the paper out in front of him with both hands, and Noctis looked up at him with a surprised gleam in his eye.
Part of him had doubted that Prompto would follow through with it. He'd figured that even after their last conversation about it, Prompto would regard it as some silly thing that he hoped Noct would forget about in time. Noct was so glad he had taken it seriously.
Noctis reached up to take one of his hands, while the other continued to grip the paper, and he gently tugged him down to sit with him. At first, Prompto merely sat on the armrest, but as Noctis patted his lap, he took the silent invitation to squeeze into the chair with him, legs draped over his thigh.
"Let's hear it," Noctis softly murmured. They locked gazes just long enough to exchange a smile before they both drew their attention to Prompto's handwritten note.
"Well, I'd like to visit Meldacio HQ, if we could. There are some hunters there that I wouldn't mind seeing again," Prompto started.
"We can do that. That's an easy one," Noct agreed, rereading the first line.
"I'd like to have one of my photographs featured on the cover of a popular magazine. And I'd kind of like to fix up an old car, do some tinkering. You know, like Cid and Cindy do."
"Yeah, I'm sure we could arrange a trip to Hammerhead. Those two would probably be happy to have you work with them for a few days," Noct agreed. "What else?"
"Well, I don't know if this is possible, but... I'd sort of like to find out if my parents are still alive," Prompto said, with a timid shrug, unintentionally drawing Noctis' gaze to him. Sad, worried eyes scanned Prompto's solemn and embarrassed ones.
"You never heard from them again? In all this time?" Noctis asked, clearly shocked, feeling almost embarrassed that he'd never thought to ask about them.
"Honestly, Noct, I'm still not sure if they even survived the fall of Insomnia. I mean, they never called to check in, but that doesn't necessarily mean that they died in the attack," Prompto said.
Noctis felt a sting of hurt and rage for these people who had failed his beloved Prompto in so many ways—leaving him on his own as a child, never giving him proper love and support, never even checking in to see if he was still alive. Sometimes Prompto had wondered if they would have forgotten about him altogether if he hadn't been still living in their house the odd time they had come home. And so, sadly, Prompto was right; they could have simply been continuing their neglectful ways now.
"Even if they did survive the fall, they might not have made it through the decade of darkness," Prompto added, face pensive and sullen.
"Tell you what, I'll have someone check our government database. Maybe there's some record of them," Noctis said, realizing his hand had found its way to Prompto's back at some point while they'd been talking. Gently, his thumb brushed against the curve of his spine.
"What do you think you'd say to them? If they were alive?" he gingerly prodded. Prompto bit his bottom lip, thinking. His gaze returned to the list, eyes scanning over the line that mentioned them.
"I don't know. Maybe just thank them? For taking me in?" Prompto shrugged again, and Noctis' eyes saddened as he rubbed his back a little more deeply. It was so very much like Prompto not to hold a grudge, to take everything in stride and not be angry, even though he was probably entitled to be.
"That's all?"
"Well, yeah, I guess. Mostly, I'd just like to know that they're okay, and for them to know that I'm okay, too." Prompto caught the stare he was getting from Noctis, and he turned his head to meet those kind eyes.
"You are the strongest, most amazing person I know. You know that?" he asked. He lowered his head slightly, but his eyes remained locked with his partner's. After a second or two of a blank stare, Prompto's lips twitched into a smile, and he pressed his hand against Noct's forehead.
"Have you got a fever? I think this is definitely delirium talking," he teased, but Noctis' mouth remained in a firm line.
"I'm serious, Prom. I don't know anyone who could go through what you've gone through, and still be so kindhearted." Prompto continued to stare at him in surprise a moment longer before his smile softened even further.
"Hate doesn't make anyone feel better. Besides, I've got no reason to be bitter," he shrugged before looping his arms around Noct's neck, bringing their faces just inches apart.
"No reason to be bitter?" Noct repeated, not knowing how that could be true.
"I've got you," Prompto replied simply, his smile curving into that adorably crooked one he'd always worn when he was truly happy, and it spread to Noctis' face seconds later. If Noctis' presence lessened the pain that this world had inflicted on Prompto, if his love was somehow Prompto's miracle, then he would make sure Prompto never had to live without either one of those things.
"Yeah," Noct breathed, contentedly, gazes never straying from the home they found in each other's eyes. "You do."
It was only a day later when Noctis thought of a way to address one of the items on Prompto's bucket list. He had lost quite a few hours of sleep wondering what the best way to approach it was while Prompto slept peacefully at his side, but when it came to research, Iris was the obvious choice.
Everyone, especially Gladio, had been content back when she had decided she didn't want a position that involved combat. Instead, she had requested a position gathering intel to protect the Crown in a way that didn't involve her being on the front line. She had proven to herself long ago that she had the ability and strength to fight, but after what she'd seen over the years, she found herself preferring a distance from it, and Gladio had assured her that there was no shame in that. As Noctis made his way to her room now, he felt confident that she would be just as thorough in this investigation as any.
"Hey, Iris. Sorry to bother you on your day off," he said, voice low and tired. He knocked softly on the door to her room, which was standing slightly ajar. She hurried over from her position on the couch to properly greet her king.
"That's totally okay. Is everything alright, Noct?" she asked, cautiously, finding his arrival here rather surprising. Noctis didn't visit her often, and she knew that things had been a little tense around the Citadel since word of Prompto's condition had circulated through the council. She didn't expect she would be the one he would run to for comfort if he needed to break down, but she was more than willing to let him vent if he needed to.
At first she had feared she might always hold a grudge against her brother for keeping such a secret from her, but after learning that Prompto had kept Noct in the dark as well, she realized how selfish it was to be playing the victim, especially when she thought about how much more her longtime friend, poor Noctis, must be suffering. Feeling sorry for herself, being mad at Gladio... none of that would help Prompto, nor would it make Noct feel any better.
"I'm fine, but I've got a favour to ask you. Can I come in?"
"Of course, Noct," she said, giving him a sad smile. She closed the door softly behind her as Noctis entered, and she motioned for him to take a seat on the couch. Quickly, she reached for the remote to flick off the romantic comedy she had been watching; that was probably the last thing Noctis wanted to see, under the circumstances.
Noctis seemed to take an extra few seconds to get situated, like he wasn't quite sure which part of the couch cushion he should sit on, or where he should lay his hands. In all honesty, he was just buying himself time to collect his thoughts.
"So, I've been getting Prompto to write down some things he'd like to do… You know?" Noctis asked, hoping he wouldn't have to elaborate to be understood. Iris sat down beside him, and nodded, looking serious, but trying to keep from appearing downright sad.
"And one of the things on his list was to try and locate his foster parents, or at least find out if they're even still alive." Iris nodded again, swallowing hard.
"And I was thinking about how you've done such a good job in your research duties. You know, with the Relicta and everything. So, I was wondering, would you want to take on the task of finding Prompto's parents?" Noctis asked, rubbing his arm, feeling nervous. He didn't want to fail Prompto on any of his wishes, but this one was of particular importance.
Noctis knew Iris was the best person for the job, as she knew the ins and outs of the web and government databases better than anyone in the Citade. Still, he had this fear that she wouldn't be able to find Mr. and Mrs. Argentum, and he absolutely didn't want to let Prompto down. He knew he would be forgiven a hundred times over even if the investigation fell through, but still… He didn't want Prompto to leave this world with any regrets.
"Of course. I would be honoured, Noct," Iris promised him, with a small smile.
"Thank you. It means a lot," Noctis said, pushing forth a smile in return, but it fell short, and he turned his head toward the blank TV screen ahead of him. After a minute, he felt a sorrowful gaze on him.
"Noct, you remember that time in Lestallum, when I was kind of hoping you and I were on a date?" she asked. Noctis could recall that day when she'd given him the tour of the city, and how smitten she'd been with him the entire time. He wasn't sure where she was going with this now, but he nodded anyway.
"I'm really sorry if I made you uncomfortable. If I'd known what was going on with you and Prompto, I never would have— I mean, I love you guys, and I would never want to do anything to—"
"I know," Noctis said, finding his smile, even though it was small. He turned to face Iris, whose eyes were so sad and apologetic. It was strange seeing her so much older.
She was twenty-six now, and full of far more wisdom and compassion. Her voice was slightly deeper, and not quite as chipper as it had been in the old days. Her eyes told Noctis that she had seen things during the World of Ruin that had changed her, just like they had everyone else.
"You were only fifteen, right? Who could blame you for having a crush on an older guy? A prince, at that?" he teased, and Iris shoved his shoulder playfully. She appreciated him lightening the mood for her sake, especially when she could see how much he was hurting.
"My brother didn't tell me about you two until after you came back from Accalia. Can you believe it? Anyway, I guess what I'm trying to say is I support you two, Noct. Prompto was so different after you were gone. He was so sad. I'm just glad you're together again now," she announced.
"Yeah, me, too. And I'm gonna do everything I can to make the best of what time we have."
"If there's anything else I can do, just say the word. I'll get to work on locating his parents right away."
"Thanks, Iris," Noct smiled. "'Preciate it."
Within a week and a half of Dolosus coming for his interview, he started his job at the Citadel. It was the beginning of the month, which meant a fresh start as far as bills, salaries, and other turnover events were involved. It had been a hectic few days. Preparing for Dolosus' arrival had made Noctis so busy, he had insisted there was no time to celebrate his birthday two days earlier. Of course, this hadn't stopped his friends from doing at least a little something. Ignis had sent him a card and a delivery of cupcakes. Gladio had decorated his study with balloons and confetti that fell from the ceiling the minute he had sat down in his chair.
Prompto, of course, had also not let this day slip by without mention. He'd given Noctis a nice, big box wrapped in gold paper. Inside was a black hoodie with a red assassin's emblem on the front, which they both figured he would wear profusely in his downtime. Prompto had bought it way back during the Assassin's Festival, and had been planning to save it for Noct's next birthday, but his disappearance into the crystal had gotten in the way of that plan. The present may have been late, but Noctis loved it all the same.
Prompto had also thrown in a few extra things—a couple of Noctis' favourite bars and candies, a carbuncle-shaped lamp for his study, and a couple of new lures for his fishing line. To top it all off, he'd sneaked down to the kitchen and convinced some poor staff member to help him make the perfect cake for Noctis.
It was a two-layer chocolate cake, with marshmallow icing in the middle and strawberries on top. Noctis had practically drooled when he saw it, and the two of them sat in his study all evening, picking away at the cake and candies while Noctis worked, and while Prompto did whatever he could to help. Perhaps that so-called 'help' was mostly Prompto crawling onto his lap, nuzzling his ear and kissing his neck, and perhaps it was more distracting than productive, but it was Noctis' birthday, and he wasn't going to complain.
Today's mood was much less relaxed as Noctis gave Dolosus the tour of the Citadel, and the run-down of the day, while trying to avoid meeting up with Prompto or Gladio. He was still convinced that they would make things awkward when the poor guy was just getting acquainted with the place, and he wanted him to be able to focus on his tasks rather than the unnerving glaives that would be keeping a watchful eye on him.
They started their day in the dining hall, then proceeded to the audience hall for the day's hearings. Contrary to Ignis' suggestion, Noctis had chosen to keep the borders open, and he saw three different refugee families that morning who sought to make Lucis their home. Noctis had welcomed them, saying that as long as their security checks came back clear, they would be approved for Lucian citizenship.
That afternoon, Noctis was also asked to pass judgement on a man who had stolen from the local market. Upon hearing his pleas that he had only done so to feed his two-year-old daughter, and his story of how he had been without work since returning to Lucis due to the agricultural job shortage thus far, Noctis had given him a pardon. He knew that after today, looking further into the farming industry would become a top priority on their agenda.
Once Noct's business was finished in the audience hall, he and Dolosus made their way through the corridors toward the study, where Noct would most likely spend the rest of his day looking over various inquiries, proposals, and contracts.
"How have I been doing so far?" Noctis asked, with a funny little smile, letting his advisor know it was okay to nitpick at the moment.
"Very well, Your Majesty. You were extremely gracious with those refugees, as well as that man to whom you gave the pardon. I'm sure your father would be proud," Dolosus said, and Noctis rubbed the back of his head, averting his gaze.
"Thanks. I wasn't looking for that kind of praise, but still… It's nice to hear," Noctis breathed. "So, I guess we know our first course of action here. Get some farming going here in Lucis. That would solve a lot of the cries for jobs, and would also create revenue for the kingdom, like you said before."
"Yes, Your Majesty. If you'd like, we could go over some maps and try to determine a good location," Dolosus agreed. His ice blue eyes darted to the side at the sight of movement, and he and Noctis looked over to see a blond glaive awkwardly heading for the main doors in the lobby, sidestepping along the wall as if to make himself invisible.
Prompto shrugged when Noctis caught his eye, and he gave a sheepish smile. He had been trying so hard not to get in Noctis' and Dolosus' path today, just as Noct had wished, but it seemed his plans hadn't exactly worked out.
"Oh, h-hey," Prompto greeted, timidly, and Dolosus quirked a brow at the lack of formality the glaive used to address his king. Noctis shrugged back. There was no point in pretending they hadn't seen each other. Might as well make this less uncomfortable for everyone, and just get the introductions over with.
"Dolosus, this is Prompto, the man I was telling you about," Noctis said, and Prompto's eyes widened, not quite sure how much Noct had said about him. The advisor reached a hand out to shake Prompto's, who forced himself to shake back without hesitation.
"So nice to finally meet you, Prompto. As I'm sure you know, His Majesty thinks very highly of you," the man smiled, and Prompto tried not to blush. So, it seemed Noctis had told him a fair amount.
"Oh, well, you know. He's not so bad himself," Prompto joked, chuckling lightly, earning another small, almost confused frown from the new advisor. Prompto swallowed his laughter. He missed Ignis. At least Ignis was used to his jokes and general weirdness.
"Have, um… Have you and I met before?" Prompto asked, after a second, withdrawing his hand from Dolosus'. He could have sworn he recognized him from somewhere. Of course, after all the places he'd been and the people he'd met over the past ten years, it wasn't unlikely.
Dolosus' frown deepened, and he swallowed, looking thoughtful, as if trying to find some memory of Prompto from another time and place.
"Not that I remember," he said, shaking his head.
"Eh, I could be wrong. I worked with a lot of people over the years," Prompto smiled, innocently.
"Or perhaps you saw me in Altissia when I used to work for Claustra?" Dolosus offered, and Prompto snapped his fingers.
"You know, that was probably it!"
"Well, I'm glad to see you two getting along, but we really need to be going. Got lots of paperwork ahead of me," Noctis sighed, wanting an out from this conversation before one of the three of them ended up saying something stupid—or worse, if Gladio showed up, too.
"Oh, yeah, that's cool. I was just heading out for guard duty anyway. I'm on front gate this afternoon," Prompto informed his king.
"Okay, then. Good luck. I'll talk to you later?" Noctis asked, with a small duck of his head, his eyes asking Prompto if they were okay. Prompto smiled, letting Noct know that he understood; they could talk more openly later in private.
"Sounds good," Prompto agreed. He reached out for the new advisor's hand again. "Nice to meet you, sir."
"And you as well," Dolosus smiled.
"Your Majesty," Prompto remembered to bow, his hand over his heart. As he stood, he gave them one last smile before heading out the heavy front doors.
"He seems like a fine gentleman," Dolosus said, giving Noctis a smile. Noct chuckled softly.
"He does better when he's not so nervous. Anyway, let's head to the study, shall we?"
"Lead the way, Your Majesty," Dolosus agreed, with a wave of his arm.
"Ugh," Noctis huffed, leaning his back against the bedroom door to close it, and reaching a hand over to flip the lock, fully intending to block the rest of the world out for the remainder of the evening.
"What a long day," he lamented. Prompto stood at the end of the bed, where he was neatly folding a pile of towels.
"How did it go with the new guy?" he asked, glancing up at his partner, who was reaching down to pull off his dress shoes. Twelve hours in those things were more than enough to make his feet ache.
"It was fine. It's kind of weird getting used to someone else, and having him watch over my every move, but he seems nice enough," Noctis said, strolling over to the bed and collapsing on his back. He let out a peaceful sigh, and his tight muscles started to relax as they sunk in against the warmth of the mattress.
"You know we have attendants to do that for us?" he reminded Prompto, who looked at him in question before returning his gaze to the towels with a smile.
"I know, but any way I can feel useful these days…"
"Hey," Noctis frowned, worriedly, and the tone of his voice caught Prompto's attention. Violet eyes flickered toward him, timidly. "Why are you feeling like you're not useful?"
"I don't know. You've just been really busy lately, and I wish there was more I could do to help you. Like the paperwork, or… I don't know, something," he shrugged, averting his eyes as soon as he'd finished speaking. He drew his attention back to the last of the royal blue towels, and folded them before taking the stack into the bathroom. He leaned down and placed them in the cupboard.
"I know I've been busy, and I know we haven't been spending a ton of time together. I'm sorry. It's not by choice," Noctis said.
"Don't worry, Noct. You don't have to explain. I know what kind of pressure you're under. I just sort of wish I was more involved, you know?" Prompto asked, returning to the bedroom and instantly looking around for something else with which he could busy himself. His pathetic excuse became the curtains, and he hurried over to them to try to fluff out the wrinkles.
"Maybe you should be," Noctis said, staring up at the ceiling in thought.
"What?"
"Maybe you should be more involved. I mean, as my partner, it's possible you might need to step up to the plate sometimes. There's no reason why you couldn't be sitting in with me in the audience chamber, or helping me make decisions on the paperwork."
"Really?" Prompto asked slowly as he looked back toward the bed, his forehead crinkled with uncertainty.
"I can always ask Dolosus what he thinks, but I don't see why not. It's probably a good idea for you to know what's going on around here. I want you to play a part in rebuilding our home," Noctis said. He propped himself up on his elbows so he was better able to see the man across the room.
"And as for feeling useful, you've always been there for whatever I needed, okay?" Noctis patted the mattress softly, hoping Prompto would take the invitation and come join him.
Prompto let his hands fall from the curtains, and he travelled towards the bed. Lifting a knee up, he crawled over to lie on his side next to Noctis, his head nestling in against his shoulder. His hand fell upon Noctis' chest as Noct's arm wove around his waist, holding him close against him. After a few silent minutes, Prompto looked up to see that Noctis' eyes had drifted closed. He rubbed his hand over the front of Noct's suit jacket, hoping it might make him stir.
"You're gonna fall asleep with your suit on. Do you want me to help you?" Prompto asked.
"I'm barely asleep," Noctis smirked, but he sounded groggy. "Help all you want, though."
Prompto shifted his weight onto his elbow, and with the hand that was already on Noctis' chest, he undid the buttons of his jacket before proceeding to unbutton his red dress shirt underneath. He pushed the fabric to the sides, exposing Noctis' bare chest to the warmth of the room. He leaned over to press a kiss above his heart before he pulled back to look at the skin several inches below. His hand slipped down to trace over the thin line of scar tissue that ran from the bottom of his rib-cage almost all the way down to his navel.
"How are you healing up?" Prompto asked, quietly.
To be honest, he hadn't seen much of the progress after Noctis had been injured in Accalia. He'd seen the cut a few days after they had both returned to the Citadel, when Noctis had needed to change the bandages. Other than that, he and Noctis had been on such different schedules, they hadn't been seeing so much of each other—at least not inside the bedroom. Even when they came back to the king's chambers at night, one of them was usually asleep before the other.
"It's still a little tender, but better than it was," Noct replied, eyes still closed.
"Tender on the inside or outside?"
"Both."
Prompto glanced at Noctis' nightstand, where medical supplies were still scattered across its surface from tending to the wound so often. He reached over for a potion bottle and undid the cap, pouring a little of the blue-green liquid onto his fingers before lowering them to Noctis' skin. Noct gave a hiss at the potion's cool temperature, but his tense muscles relaxed a little as Prompto continued to run his fingers over the raised flesh.
"Hard to believe it's only been a few weeks since you were hurt," he hummed, watching Noctis' expression carefully as he traced over the scar. Noctis' eyes were pressed closed, the faintest twitches appearing between his brows, indicating a mix of pain and pleasure.
"Is this okay?" Prompto asked, just to be sure.
"Yeah. Feels good," Noct breathed, focusing in on that soothing touch, and on the potion as it dulled the lingering pain in his abdomen. It seemed to mend the skin just a little bit more.
Noctis soon felt Prompto shifting his weight, and the next thing he felt was Prompto's lips on his stomach, grazing lightly over the scar. He smiled softly at the gentleness of his actions, and brushed a hand over Prompto's hair before letting it settle on the back of his neck.
"Is this you returning the favour for kissing your scars?" Noct sleepily slurred.
"Nope. This is just me showing you that I love you," Prompto smiled, continuing his work. One of his hands stayed on the bed to support him, while the other ran along Noctis' side, thumb brushing over his waist and stomach.
"I don't know if this was your intention, but this isn't exactly helping to put me to sleep."
"Oh yeah? What's it doing?" Prompto smirked.
"Turning me on," Noctis mumbled.
"I can work with that."
Noct's hand was on Prompto's in a second, holding it in place at his waist, keeping it from wandering elsewhere. Prompto looked up, sensing the tension that had just shot through Noctis' body.
"Not tonight, okay?" Noct murmured. "I just... really need the rest."
Prompto walked his hands backwards until he was kneeling upright. He felt himself reddening as he turned his gaze toward the floor beside him. He couldn't remember the last time Noctis had rejected his advances—if ever. He knew Noctis was tired, and maybe he was still too sore, but there was another part of Prompto that feared those weren't the reasons for the rejection, and it hurt to think about. It hurt to think that Noct of all people might turn away from him at a time like this.
"I'm sorry if I—" Prompto started, rubbing his arm in shame, but even as he searched for a way to end that sentence, he couldn't find one.
"Don't be," Noct answered anyway, trying to assure him that everything was alright, but Prompto couldn't be fooled.
"Noct, don't you think things have been a little... dry between us lately? Like, since before we left for Accalia?"
"Well," Noctis sighed, pushing himself to sit up. "I haven't been feeling all that sexy lately, to be honest." He brushed a hand over his stomach where the scar remained. Was Noct really ashamed of that tiny line? After the giant claw marks that Prompto had shown him?
"Or is this really about me, because now you know there's something wrong with me? I mean, you're not going to 'catch' my faulty genes," he said, sharply.
"Hey, calm down, Prompto. It's not like that," Noctis defended himself, hands popping up in surrender.
"But it is about me?"
"I-I didn't say that."
"You didn't have to! You're scared of me!" Prompto could feel his world spinning as the truth hit him hard.
"I'm scared of what might happen to you!" Noctis corrected, eyes slanted in desperation, his hands reaching out to grip Prompto's.
"What does that mean?!"
"It means... that I don't know enough about your condition yet. I don't want to do anything that might make you worse off."
"Noct..." Prompto practically whispered, the anger falling aside and disbelief taking over instead. It was touching that the man would think of such a thing, but those kinds of worries weren't necessary, at least not in Prompto's mind. He still felt perfectly fine—no different from the day, or even the decade, before.
"You're not making me any worse off, okay?"
Noctis still appeared concerned and unconvinced, and Prompto brought his hands to his lips, kissing the backs of them individually.
"It's sweet of you to be so considerate, but if that's what's stopping you, there's no need. Come on, let's just..." Prompto leaned in to capture Noctis' lips, but Noct was up from the bed in a second, pulling free of Prompto's grasp. Prompto fell forward, landing on his elbows hard enough to make the mattress bounce. He slowly turned his head to peer up at Noctis, who was the one looking timid now.
"If we can prevent any strain on your body, we probably should," Noctis said, his voice so meek and apologetic. Prompto continued to stare at him, looking like a wounded puppy. It made Noctis' heart ache so badly, he couldn't let his gaze linger.
"I'm gonna go get ready for bed," Noctis went on, his tone unchanged from the last words he'd spoken. He headed for the bathroom, reaching for his toothbrush and squeezing a bit of paste onto it from the nearby tube. Prompto continued to lie there on his elbows, trying to absorb everything that had just been said.
"So… what? We're just… not gonna have sex for the next ten years?" Prompto asked, a mix of incredulity and irritation in his voice.
"I'm not saying that," Noct shook his head, looking defeated. "I just want to wait until I know more, okay? I don't know what we should or shouldn't be doing to keep you healthy, and I just…" Noctis sighed, blinking back tears that had suddenly found their way to his eyes. "I want to keep you for as long as I can."
With that, he shoved his toothbrush into his mouth, and began brushing loudly, trying to distract himself before he could really start crying.
Prompto, feeling like a bit of a heel after that, silently went to his dresser and pulled out a white t-shirt and a pair of sleep pants. He changed into them and crawled into bed, lying on his side away from Noctis, unable to look at him at the moment. There were too many emotions running through his brain, and he wasn't sure which one might pop out and start attacking. He didn't want to fight anymore. He didn't want to do anything except sleep.
Noctis returned to the bedroom after a few minutes, having finished his nighttime routine. He slipped into bed and stared over at Prompto, who was curled in on himself and absolutely not daring a glance in his direction. Noctis turned off the bedside lamp before settling down beneath the covers.
"Will you just lie with me?" Noctis murmured. He hoped that Prompto might let bygones be bygones, that he would roll over and snuggle in against him. To his dismay, Prompto said nothing. He knew he was still awake from the sound of his breathing, and the way he'd appeared to be staring at the wall ahead a mere minute ago.
Noctis wasn't about to let him go to bed angry. He'd always had this fear that one day he would wake up, and someone he loved would be gone, and he didn't want to have regrets. With the knowledge that Prompto's time was running out, those fears had multiplied, and Noctis would be damned if he didn't do everything he could to make sure Prompto knew he was loved, whether or not he wanted the affection.
"That's fine. I'll just lie with you, then," Noctis said, very matter-of-fact. He reached for his pillow and tugged it over to rest right up against Prompto's. He scooted in close, one arm weaving over Prompto's waist, and the other easing under his neck. His chest was pressed against Prompto's back, and his lips brushed over a lightly freckled shoulder before gracing it with a soft kiss.
"Goodnight, my love," he spoke into the darkness, before allowing his head to fall softly back down onto the pillow. Once he had slipped into unconsciousness, Prompto closed his eyes tightly, and let his body tremble as he quietly cried himself to sleep.
A/N: Thank you for all the amazing feedback lately! I was shocked to see so many responses to this story in my inbox, and it sincerely brightened my day so much! I appreciate hearing from you all, and am so pleased to receive so many kind words. I do put my heart and soul into every line, scene, and chapter (I spend at least 10 hours a week just editing this story), so it is amazing to be recognized for the hard work I have put into making this story what it is. From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much for all your support! Kudos to all of you, readers!