Stuck Between a Rock and a Hard Body

III

A/N: I apologize for the long wait, I've been trying to balance this with a full-time job, DLC packs, Square patching in new story content (incomprehensible sounds of an irritated writer), Persona 5 (which took me three months to get through), having to fight my laptop for results, finally caving and getting a new one, and other obligations (farting around on Youtube). Though I've been taking a notebook with me to work on this chapter in my down time, there are obviously certain 'events' that I can't risk someone reading over my shoulder. I hope that this explains what has been going on in the intervening months between chapters. I hope you enjoy this new installment!

Disclaimer: Final Fantasy XV is owned by Square Enix and Sony studios. I do not own any other mentioned properties.

"You're late," Cor almost growled, leaning against the Tomb's door. There were dark rings under his eyes, like he hadn't slept at all last night.

"Figured," sighed Aquas, "I'll take blame for that one, slowed us down some this mornin'." Walking around from the back of the group, hood still raised, but at this angle Cor could see an apologetic smile.

"Well isn't this a blast from the past," he scoffed.

"Never pegged you for the nostalgic-type," said the thief curiously, "As far as I know, you only saw me in this once." Crossing his arms, "So, what's yer game here," he asked, a slight sense of suspicion in his demeanor.

"It is the duty of his Majesty to collect the power of his predecessors," explained Cor, turning to unlock the Tomb's doors. There was a large, metallic clank followed by the sounds of hidden chains pulling the heavy, ornate metal plates into the stone walls of the structure. "This power," he continued, walking inside, "takes the form of a Royal Glaive belonging to a great king or queen of the past. Each waits in a Tomb, waiting to be claimed by the Chosen King of the Crystal. That much, we can assume from what the stories tell us. It is up to our prince to put those tales to the test."

They had all followed the Marshall inside, so struck with awe at the craftsmanship of the marble decor that they failed to notice that Aquas was still standing just outside the doorway with a look of unease. Everything from his posture to the way he kept opening and closing his hands told them that the thief was uncomfortable with the idea of entering the Tomb. When asked why, his reply came in a small, curt, "Bad luck." Cor scoffed while the other four looked concerned about his answer. Cor added, "You're not still stuck in your old habits are you," goading him.

"You watch yer mouth," anger overtaking logic, forcing him to step inside, "You of all people know full well how I was raised! After what ya did t' me, the least ya could do is quit the asshole act and give me some godsdamned slack! Or have you forgotten what happened almost four years ago?!" Aquas had gotten right in Cor's face, violet eyes alight with the fire of some burning, unidentified emotion. Whispering, eyes now dim with regret, "I've made my peace with it ya know, even forgiven you. The one thing I can't figure out is this grudge yer holdin' on to, what do I have t' do to convince you I never meant what I did." Turning on his heel so Cor had no chance to respond, the thief kept his head down as he left, saying dejectedly, "If y'all need me, I'll be waiting outside." Once clear of the door, Aquas' sharp ears caught Noctis asking," What was that all about?" There was a pregnant pause, as if everyone was looking from Aquas to Cor. He almost didn't hear the Marshall give the indefinite answer of, "Nothing that concerns us at the moment, this is much more important." Aquas' breath caught as he quickened his pace, pulling his hood further up to hide his face from the world.

Five minutes of angst later, they found him on top of the great pillars that marked the Tomb's location, sitting with one leg dangling over the edge. As they began to wonder how and why he was up there, he pushed off the ledge with staff in hand. About halfway down, it extended to bridge the gap and bring his descent to a brief halt as he swung around it once before letting go. Aquas landed with a grunt on one knee, as if bowing, in front of Noct, asking, "Where to now, your Highness," before rising to his feet.

"Keycatrich Trench, and call me Noctis," said the Prince.

Aquas faltered for a momement, reason unknown, "Of course, it's just a short walk from here if I'm not mistaken. But there'll be Empire troops waiting for us."

"He's right," said Cor, bitter that he agreed with the thief, "During the war, Niflehiem took many territories across Lucis. Now they practically go anywhere they please."

"Not like they didn't do that before," added the thief, not even attempting to hide his disdain for the Empire or perhaps something else.

Cor took point with Aquas a couple paces behind him, the tension between the two could be felt by the remainder of the party behind them. This sparked a quiet conversation between the four friends, carefully keeping it out of earshot of the subject matter.

"So do you guys have any ideas on how those two know each other so well," asked Prompto.

"Maybe, I heard a rumor that Cor used to go outside the Wall on secret missions for my dad. It could be that Aquas was one of his informants," said Noct, posing a very likely situation.

"Really," added Gladio, "I overheard from someone in the Crownsguard that he took some teenager in about ten years ago. Might've been our new friend here."

"The both of you might be on to something," input Ignis, "I accidently overheard a conversation between His Majesty and the Marshall about changing Mr. Nigrum's sentence whilst he was on trial."

"But that leaves one question...," started Prompto, looking at the backs of the two men several feet in front of them.

"What made Cor hate our resident thief so much," finished Gladio.

"Who knows," relented Noctis, "It doesn't look like they're telling us anytime soon."

"Are you sure," asked Prompto, "Maybe if we ask Aquas really nicely..."

"Ain't gonna happen Prom," cut in Gladio.

"Why not," whined the blonde.

"Cause there are just some things that people don't talk about," answered Gladio, "least not that easily. This is one of these things."

"Sounds like you've got a thing for him big guy," smirked Prompto.

The Shield just glared at the blonde, who just shank away slightly and kept on grinning outside of the man's long reach. "Alright kiddies, we're here," called back Aquas, bringing their attention back to their current mission.

Like both the Marshall and the thief had said, there were Niflhiem troops stationed throughout the area around the caves in which the next Tomb lay. For people like Cor the Immortal and Aquas, this should be a cakewalk, but Noctis wasn't so sure it was going to be an easy task to take on those Magitech-mechas. But with six people in the group, two of which being exceptionally good combatants, they're chances were significantly higher. The two older men definitely had unique ways of fighting that complimented each other almost too well, like they were in sync with each other's movements. It raised a few eyebrows and even more questions about their familiarity with each other, which could only be described as 'intimate' by Ignis when there was a pause enough for the four to notice. Battle soon recaptured their attention, so any and all inquiries would have to be put on the back burner till a later time.

Once the Magitech troops had been reduced to scrap metal, their group gathered around the entrance of the Keycatrich Trench, Aquas with a particularly sour expression. When they asked what was wrong once more, the thief responded cryptically, "I don't have a lotta fond mem'ries of this place. Rather not go in without a ward against bad luck."

"You're still insisting upon that old myth," scoffed Cor.

"Don't test me Leonis! You of all people know that I can find ways to tear yer world a-fucking-sunder," threatened the thief, causing the man's face to go taunt and made everyone uneasy. Prompto, looking to defuse the tension, let out a bated whistle, but it only added fuel to the fire.

Gathering his courage, Noct asked, "How long will it take?"

"Depends on if this pile of sour dicks will humor me, just for a minute," Aquas answered curtly, obviously fuming.

Everyone looked to Cor expectantly until he said, in angry defeat, "Fine! Just get on with it!"

"Thank you," shot the thief venomously, giving the group pause for concern as they glared daggers at each other until they were out of the other's line of sight.

Taking a calming breath, Aquas began some sort of ritual, "O, dea Etro, exaudi orationem meam. Rogamus ut remittat nobis requies intuding qui ambulat in saltum chao et spero te protegat. Neque subsidium exspectans si in tempore hoc facimus quod nos possesions quondam invenit viam animae in nobis, cum semel ingressi sunt." As he spoke, he chalked a series of runes (similar to those on his chest) to the right of the cave's mouth, finishing with his hands clasped together above his heart as he bowed his head in respect.

Ignis was the first to question this odd occurrence, "Might I ask what that was?" Ever polite, thought Aquas.

Before he could utter a word, Cor cut in, "It's a superstition among thieves regarding tombs. Something about 'preserving the purity of burial sites' if you can believe that."

"When are ya gonna pull that stick out'f yer ass," asked Aquas intently, "It. Ain't. 'superstition,'" he added in irritation. Pinching the bridge of his nose in attempt to relieve tension, "It's an old legend and practice among Filii Dea to pay tribute to the goddess of death known as Etro. It was said that she alone watched over time and the cycle of human rebirth. The legend goes on to mention a knight of her's with rose colored hair and how they were responsible for all souls to be reincarnated here when the old world was over taken by chaos and what little of it ended. Most of the story has been known and kept by us for generations, thanks to a few good heists back when we started. There were missing pieces though, rumored to be held in the library of the Lucian Kings."

The prince and his friends seemed impressed by his tale, but the Marshall just sneered, "Don't go believing everything he says, that's how he gets you to do whatever his twisted desires want."

Instead of anger, Aquas looked rather hurt by this, chiding, "It's not my fault that you never asked the right questions." There was a deep sadness in the thief's eyes as he remembered something that was obviously privy to only the Marshall and himself.

"Tch, I think the five of you'll be fine by yourselves, for now" said Cor dismissively. "I've better things to do than crawl through some abandoned caves. I'll be checking in," looking directly at Aquas before adding in a low tone, "often."

"Stay safe," Aquas said, sounding almost out of habit and completely genuine. But he seemed to be ignored by Cor, whose back was to them before he walked off towards the outpost. Making his peace with it, with a dejected sigh, Aquas suggested, "Well, I could lead y'all to the Tomb if ya want, I know this place like the back of my hand."

"Can you really take us to it," Gladio exclaimed.

Seeming to perk up at that little bit of praise, Aquas boasted, "Ya bet'chur ass I can!" He had the urge to throw the word 'sweet' somewhere in that sentence,but thankfully resisted the temptation.

"Then what're we waitin' for then?! Let's get us a Royal Arm," proclaimed Prompto with renewed vigor.

With confidence in their new friend, Noctis and his ruetine felt comfortable in letting Aquas take point as they delved into the ruins of what remained of a last hope to the people who took shelter here. Though they had faith in his integrity, the four men still had questions about the thief and his past. What was his connection to this place? Was it him that lived with the Marshall? Those and other silent inquiries did not go unnoticed by Aquas, who asked as he picked at the pins of a locked gate, "Got somethin' on yer minds fellas? Go on, speak up, it's about what Cor told ya, isn't it? Wonderin' if y'all trust me?" Hell, who's to say they'd ever trust me after that display.

"No way man, that's not it..." blathered the blonde hastily as the gate opened with an ominous creak. Aquas could hear movement ahead, praying to Etro it wasn't anything too dangerous.

"It's just that we have lots of questions," added Noct, "You haven't exactly told us much."

"I have my reasons, but now's not the time fer twenty questions," he cautioned, "here there be daemons."

This kept them silent, for the most part, Noct and Prom were snickering at his unintentional reference. As the thief had predicted, had to deal with a horde of goblins and some larger, spider-like their party of five, the easily managed to clear the path of unwanted pests and make for the Tomb's doors. Noctis produced the key Cor had given him, causing the doors to retreat like they did on the first, all be it louder bouncing off the stone walls of the surrounding cavern.

"Looks like they're built the same," commented the thief, "it's identical to the one in Nebulawoods, if my memory's correct. The only thing different is that the doors are still on their hinges and that there axe." Chuckling to himself, jesting "What? Was the Lucian Court lackin' in architects?"

"I believe I read somewhere that they were made uniform so that they could be easily identified at a distance," input Ignis intelligently.

"Yeah, makes sense on paper don' it," added Aquas, "but in practice, it makes things easy fer treasure hunters t' find 'em all and take these Glaives that so important. Lucky fer you boys," holding up a hand to stay their concerns, "to my knowledge, no one knows how t' open these Tombs or what's in them 'cept those close to the royal family. Hell, until t'day, I hadn't a clue what the reason fer these Tombs to be spread across Lucis instead of Insomnia."

"So they should all be there 'cept the one in Nebulawoods," surmised Gladiolus.

"I haven't heard anything like this goin' through the black market from what contacts I still have, so yeah, that's right," confirmed the thief, adding anxiously, "Can we hurry up? I don't wanna be here any longer than I have to."

They had to admit that Aquas looked rather uncomfortable here, the real reason still unknown. So without any more dallying, Noctis collected the battle-axe of his ancestor and they made their way back outside. About halfway through, Prompto made the observations about how the weapons of Noct's relatives stabbing him in the heart was kinda foreboding. They all just looked at each other, as if searching for an answer or reason. Even when they reached the end of the tunnel, none of them had any explanation nor did they like the implications of what it could mean. Aquas particularly had a solemn look about him, his theories were most likely far more grim than anyone else in their group.

When they stepped outside, the sun had reached its zenith and they had a lack of anything to do for the time being. Even Cor didn't have anything for them when he called to check on them as he had promised. He said he was working on a way to get past the Empire's blockade into Duscae. So, until they received the green light from the Marshall, their time was theirs to decide what to do with. Prompto, predictively, suggested that they take this as a break until they were ready to move on to Duscae. Noct agreed with him and Aquas looked as though he did too, but said nothing. Ignis, on the other hand, shot down the idea in favor of making an investment for the future. In other words, they'd be doing jobs for the Hunters in the area. This overruled Prompto three to two, making the blonde complain about having to use some effort instead of playing on his phone for hours on end. Speaking of which, Aquas had a worrying thought come to mind.

"Hey Noct," probed the thief as Prompto continued to try in vein to change Iggy's mind.

"Yeah?"

"Ain't ya worried that the Nifs will track y'all down by our cells," he asked, some of his old cautious habits returning.

"We shouldn't have need for concern," assured Ignis, nonchalantly holding back the still blathering blonde, "the Crownsgaurd install ghost chips in all their issued devices so as to avoid tracking from an outside source. Plus, the passcodes for tracking change every hour."

"Then we're fucked if they figure out that I'm travelin' with you fellas," added the thief pessimistically, staring at the cheap smart phone in his hand, considering the pros and cons of smashing it.

"They can't figure that out if no one's alive to tell 'em," Gladio pointed out, grinning almost sinisterly.

"I like how you think," Aquas smirked darkly before adding, "Now that that's out of the way, then I suppose we should get started on these hunts. We'd make more money if we split into groups of two and three."

"Say what," said Prom in shock, finally paying attention to the conversation.

"Look, it'll takes less time than if all five of us were to do the same job," he explained, "and the smaller the group, the harder it is to scare off a target. You'd be surprised how loud y'all were back there," jabbing a thumb back towards the caves, "Kinda curious why those pests didn't attack us earlier than they did.

"He's right," said Gladio, placating their concerns, "smaller groups do work better. You wouldn't send a whole army after one person would'ja." Would you look at that, strong and smart, thought Aquas.

"Isn't the Empire doing that to me," Noct pointed out, like the smartass he is, "But I get what you're saying. So, how should we split up?"

The question hung in the air before Aquas answered, "Well, it looks like that Ignis here is the only one who can keep a handle on you and yer court jester," there was an indignant 'hey' from Prompto that could be heard in the background, "So you three will be one group if there are no arguments."

"Sounds reasonable enough," said Ignis, giving it some thought, "Then that leaves Gladio and yourself to partner up."

"I ain't got a problem with that if you don't," said the thief, "unless ya want t' hunt alone."

"Nah, I'd rather have someone watch my back. Think you can handle that," goaded Gladio.

"Non forsit, I jus' hope ya can keep up," Aquas prodded back.

"It seems we're at an agreement. Now, all that's left is to decide where each group will be hunting our targets," concluded Ignis.

"I reckon I saw some posters at Hammerhead and the rest stop over by Longwrythe, ya can drop us off there and take care of the varmits around the garage," said Aquas, manipulating them slightly for an outcome he wanted.

Not knowing that he was helping the thief's scheme, Noct added slyly, "I'm sure Cindy would be happy to see us helping out."

"Then what are we waiting for, let's get going," exclaimed Prompto, unusually motivated as he made for the car with the others following with knowing smirks, Aquas especially smug.

Ignis took his usual place at the wheel whilst Aquas sat between Noctis and Prompto, looking very out of place in his ragged thieves attire. The faded black now gray in stock contrast to the coal hue around him, further making him the outlier. Not like it wasn't something he wasn't used to by now, but being used to and being okay with it were two completely unrelated feelings. Even in this group of misfits, he stood out.

Finally pulling his hood back down, Aquas stretched out his arms over the backseat of the Regalia as he leaned back and let the wind sweep through his hair; hoping it would carry these drowning thoughts away into the landscape racing past them. He was brought back to his surroundings by the very familiar sound of a camera shutter's rapid opening and closing. Head still tilted back, Aquas' eyes flicked over to his right to see, out of the corner, Prompto with an old camera, it's lens pointed in his direction.

Before he did more than that, Prompto said, "Wait! Hold that expression, it's perfect!" The camera clicked five more times in quick succession before Aquas was allowed to move. "It's almost like you've molded before!"

"I dabbled in it fer a time, needin' a hobby and the extra gil," said the thief, a hint of fondness in his voice, "it was an on and off thing since I wasn't all that popular."

"I have a hard time believin' that," said Gladio, his voice a little strained that almost went unnoticed. Almost.

"Yeah, me too," chimed Prompto, oblivious to the slight look of intrigue Aquas had, "What did'ja model for?"

Brushing off his curiosity, "Bit 'f everythin', they kinda jus' put me where I was needed or subbed fer models who had prior engagements," smirking a little as his joke went over their heads, "I was usually posed with some pretty little thing, I hardly got a solo shoot."

"Why's that," said Prompto, still clueless to the reason behind the foxlike grin the thief wore as he flicked through his images, "these are great pics! Oh! This one would look great in black and white, don't'cha think," showing Noct and Aquas the current picture of the thief. The wind had swept up his hair dramatically, contrasting the nonplussed, half-lidded look he was giving the gunman.

"I think so too," said Noct cheerily, leaning forward so he could see around Aquas before turning to him and adding, "You should definitely model for him sometime."

"I'm flattered but I'll have t' take a rain check on that," he said as they pulled into the rest stop.

Aquas and Gladiolus got out, collected their bags, said their farewells (promising Ignis that they'd call to check-in often), and made for the Crow's Nest for something to eat and ask about local hunter targets in the area. As Aquas expected, Gladio had ordered three times the food he had and was happily chowing down as soon as it was set in front of him.(Do you like this pronoun game? I don't.)Aquas couldn't help the fond smile he had as he attended to his own meal. After his second burger, Gladio asked, "How's yer arm holdin up?"

"Almost fergot about it, ain't bothered me none all day," replied the thief, taking a sip of his cherry-flavored soda. "The only one that hasn't, to be honest." he added, "You do good work."

He grunted with acknowledgement, "So which one of these do ya wanna do today," looking at the spread of papers in front of him.

"You," he breathed.

"What?"

"These fellas here," tapping the magnanir poster, "Still enough daylight before they make bed fer the night," said the thief, recovering seemlessly.

"Yeah, sounds like a good idea to me," Gladio said, motivated, "Let's get goin'!"

Finishing their meals, they thanked the tipster and headed back across the street to toss their bags in the room. The tempting whispers of the cooled air beckoning them to stay just a bit longer, but they resisted. Hiking towards Longwrythe Peak, where the herd was last spotted, Aquas started some small talk, asking about any hobbies that the Shield to the King might have. Researching fighting techniques was the first that Gladio mentioned, always looking to improve. The thief comended him for that, sharing the same thought but to a broader view due to his seclusion of his store in recent years; letting slip that he was looking forward to the road of unpredictabilty ahead, missing the outside world and the freedom from a itinerary for every waking hour. They both had an affinity for combat, obviously, and continued to discuss their expeirances and theories. It was Gladio who brought up that the Kingsglaive were given abilities similar to the royal family, but most of the Crownsgaurd didn't. Aquas found this odd and asked why.

"Well, I guess it has to do with personal preferance," he explained, "Not everyone takes well to warping, most people throw up their first time."

"Can't imagine why," comment Aquas with heavy sarcasm; not remembering his experinance this morning that fondly.

Chuckling, "Dont' worry, the rest of us aren't too comfortable with it either. Then there's the magic, I never got the hang of it and it freaks the hell out of Prompto. Iggy's really the only one of us that can use it just as well as Noct. Usually," he added," if we need that extra 'omf', Noct'll make us these little magic bombs for us to throw at our enemies. But they make it a little too easy to set each other on fire."

"Lemme guess," said the thief with a hint of amusement, "Y'all set blondie on fire and that's why he won't touch the stuff."

"It wasn't on purpose," suddenly defensive, "I didn't know the blast was gonna be that big." He would've continued to ramble if Aquas placed a finger on his lips, motioning him to get low and hide behind the boulder a yard to their right.

Peaking around their cover, they watched as their prey stiffened with alertness. Neither Gladio nor Aquas dared move until the horned beasts began to relax. Back against the large stone, the thief whispered, "How ya wanna handle this?"

"Well, I don't think they'll run off," he said in equal silence, "they look real aggressive. So we need to focus on not gettin' trampled. Any ideas?"

"I've got one," conjuring his sword, "and I'm gonna hate it, but it's fer a good cause." Peaking around the boulder again, he quickly scaned the landscape for a good infantry point before turning back to Gladio. "I'm gonna try t' warp t' the other side of the herd, take 'em by surprise. When I strike, yer gonna take 'em from this side, throw 'em into confusion, give us the advantage."

"Good plan," praised Gladio, looking motivated.

"Imma thief, lowerin' risk and playin' dirty are what I do best! Git ready," he said, taking aim. Ready for the magic this time, he launched the blade over the heads of the magnanir, blinking as it began to plummit back to the ground. What he wasn't ready for was the landing, almost crashing as he rolled with a grunt and garnering the beasts' attention. "Gladio! NOW," he shouted, throwing the sword again, but at magnanir this time.

As Aquas had said, this threw the herd into disaray, but not for as long as they would've liked. Soon, the magnanir had exchanged their panic for aggression and swarming their assailants. Forcing the two hunters to take the defensive.

"What was that about 'lowerin' risk," Gladio yelled over the sound of numerous hooves hitting the rocky ground.

"We killed four of 'em," shot back Aquas, using his staff to block one from skewering him.

"Yeah, but I count ten more!"

"Still better than fourteen!"

"Ahh! Let's jus' kill these damn things," growled Gladio in frustration.

"What do ya think I'm doin', teachin' 'em figure skatin'," warping up to stab one the throat. "That's three I've killed, five more and I git first shower!"

"Oh like hell you will," taking a huge sweep with his blade, downing two, "Four! How do ya like that?!"

"Like five," starting to get the hang of the physics (What physics?) of the warp magic, "Keep up kid," boasted the thief, blinking over to his next target.

Gladio just grumbled and pushed hard as the magnanir in front of him tried ramming him into the unforgiving ground. As their numbers dwindled, the beasts seemed to fight even harder and began to really wear them down. By the time one remained, a large bull, the score was seven to six with Aquas winning. But luck was on Gladio's side due to Aquas' excessive use of his borrowed magic chipping away most of his energy, giving him the chance to even out the score. Charging foward with a great yell, he took a wild slash and decapitated the magnanir's front legs from it's body.

"Yeah," he hooted in celebration, looking pleased with himself, "Take that you smug bastard!"

Aquas, on the other hand, wasn't amused in the slightest. In fact, he almost looked like there was a storm of rage brewing beneath the surface. Taking a deep breath, he marched past Gladio without so much as aknowledging him, gaze fixed on the magnanir, still alive and struggling to flee. Unable to stand, all it could do was frantically push itself across the dusty ground, blood pooling and being flecked all around it as it made pained sounds of panic as the thief drew close. It was a sad sight to see, especially when Aquas kneeled next to it, running a gentle hand through it's mane and cooing quietly to calm the poor beast. In a hushed, tender tone, he said, "Shh shh shhhh, I'm sorry my horned brother. I never ment for you to suffer, allow me to end your hurt and send you into the loving arms of our mother, Etro."

The beast seemed to understand these words, soothed by the thief's kind promises. It layed down, extending and exposing it's neck to Aquas, accepting it's grim fate as he drew his blade across the flesh quick and clean so that it may bleed out quickly. Muttering a prayer under his breath in the old tongue, he held his right hand clenched into a fist over his heart. When his words ceased, the same hand extended upward and outward, letting his fingers unfurl as though he was letting something go to be swept up by the wind. It left Gladio speechless by the solemn beauty of it, strangely ashamed of himself as he surveyed the magnanir corpses around them. It was pretty clear which ones he had slain by their mangled bodies compared the mercifully quick deaths Aquas had executed.

"I'm sorry," Gladio found himself saying,

"Don't be," still gazing with pity at the corpse at his feet, "it was my fault t' spur ya on like that," he said apologetically, "What's done is done. Our job's finished, let's just head back and get our bounty."

The hike back to the rest stop was uncomfortable, not because of the heat or sore feet, but because of the silence that enveloped them like a blanket of awkwardness. Aquas refused to say a word, not knowing how to say what was on his mind without coming across as scolding the other man. Gladio, on the other hand, was begining to feel anxious, waiting for the thief's quiet facade to break at any moment and rake him across the coals for what just happened. No one had ever made Gladio feel this ashamed of himself without a word or acting like it wasn't his fuck up. He felt like he'd disappointed the thief and it was getting to him, which anyone who knew him would say it was something unheard of. The King's sworn Shield was one who never gave a damn what other's said or thought, untill now.

Aquas was the first to break the silence, "Ya doin' okay Gladio," he asked, sounding quite calm, "Ya've been aweful quiet back there."

"Huh...? Oh...uh..yeah, I'm good," he lied awkwardly.

Stopping just inside the limits of the outpost, he turned to see Gladio trying to avoid eye contact with him, the setting sun casting odd shadows over them. It gave Aquas pause as he looked the man over, seeing the same expression and body language he'd seen himself and many others display so many times before. It was the look of someone that had fallen short of a respected college's expections. His ears began to feel warm at the revelation, surprised that Gladio already respected him that much. Clearing his throat slightly, he said stiffly, "You held yourself very well today. If something's eating you, just know that you've impressed me today and take pride in that, not everyone can do that." Aquas' heart twinged painfully at the echo of words that were once spoken to him years ago; that those same words had the same effect on Gladio that they had on himself. Surprise, a look of self-reflection, and turning to meet the thief's violet eyes with his of fiery amber. What he did not expect was the warm smile of thanks that he recieved, it made his ears feel even hotter as the corner of his mouth twitched upward to form his trademark half-grin.

"Oh really? What would that be," he asked, his voice heavy with smug as his smile shifted to a shiteating grin.

"Ain't sayin', don't want ya t' get a big head, do we now," Aquas jested, "C'mon, let's git our gil and go, I'm pooped."

The tripster was grateful and surprised that only two of them were able to take out a herd of fourteen without major injury. Aquas pretended to be modest, commenting on how challenging it was to keep the beasts away long enough to strike one of them done, that was Shiva's truth. Gladio hung back as Aquas accepted the bounty reward, wondering what he did today to impress the thief. It wasn't his skills in combat, he was sure that Aqaus had seen much more talented fighters than himself. Was it something else he did or was it something he said? There was still a lot about the thief that Gladio didn't know or what his actual motives were. He'd have to be extra careful about asking questions from now on so he doesn't get suspicious. But there was one thing he knows about Aquas that no one else does and it made sense to Gladio that the thief wouldn't want it shared. So he'll just keep that in his back pocket for later.

Aquas let out an audible sigh of relief as he entered the A/C cooled room, flopping back first onto the nearest bed. He made and appreciative noise as he sunk into the mattress slightly. "I tell you what," he said tiredly, "nothin' beats the feel of a hotel bed."

This was the second time today that Gladio had caught onto the thief's double menanings, this time, he was going to comment on it. "Sounds like you've had a lot 'f good times on one," hinting towards something lewd.

"Like you wouldn't believe," commented Aquas with a smirk, "the best part is in the mornin', yer not the one t' clean up the aftermath. Plus, hotels always have the best mattresses."

"Well if you love 'em so much," making for the bathroom door, "why don't you stay there while I take the first shower."

"M'kay," he hummed, not yet processing what Gladio had said until he locked the door. Scrambling up, he made for the door, saying loudly, "Dammit kid! I need one too! I swear to Ifrit if ya use all the hot water, I'll hog tie ya t' the bed," hitting the door threateningly. Hell, might do that anyway, sounds fun. Walking back to the beds, Aquas accidently kicked Gladio's bag and there was a metalic thunk that he bearly heard as a large truck drove past outside.

More than curious, Aquas knelt down and began to search for this suspicious item. Shifting through clothes and books, he found a deposit box off to the side at the bottom. From the looks of it, it was purposely put there to keep it hidden from anyone who would glance over when the man was retrieving a book or grabbing a change of clothes. A smart tactic and it made the thief very curious as to what was worth this kind of effort. Obviously, when he tried to open it, he found that it was locked tight. Not a problem, he was more than capable to pick the small lock before Gladio could finish his shower. Pulling tools from one of the several pouches on his belt, he was slightly anxious as he picked at the tumblers, expecting the Shield to walk out at any moment. But less than a minute later, the latch popped off as Aquas sat smugly at his own skill. What he found was both flattering and a little wierd to be on the otherside of this sort of thing.

Inside was a collection of porn magazines strictly for gay men(Or girls into guy on guy action, I ain't judging). It was a magzine Aquas knew well, due to staring in it more than a few times. And best he could tell, he was in each of these issues, dating back as far as eight years ago. The thief had signed on for the extra gil and was in good with the owners, being members of Filii Dea themselves, leaving for their own ambitions in Insomnia's Wall. They had called it "Criminal's Innduendo," pretty clever seeing as it was ran and modled by either current or former law-breakers. The only way to get a hold of them in the city was if one knew a guy who knew a guy that could a hold of them. Outside the Wall was a whole different story apparently cause the newest one was bought in Hammerhead, Aquas remembered seeing it there. Flipping through some of them, it was obvious which models were Gladio's favorites by the wearing on the pages; they were all built like Aquas, lithe, toned with middling length dark hair and the look of real danger and mischief about them. The thief couldn't help but notice that he was the only consistant reappearence in these old magazines, he could see the look of darkness begin to fade through the years to be replaced with that of a playful trickster.

Putting them back how he found them, he reset the lock pins and hid it back in the bag the way it was before he went though it. When Gladio finally came out with a towel wrapped around his waist, he was none the wiser that Aquas had found his stash. Not that the thief could tell, due to the fact that he was too busy drinking in the sight of the man's still glistening body like he was the oasis in the middle of the desert and he was dying of thirst. The tattoo that spanned most of his torso is what really garnered his attention, having a bit of a fetish for that sort of thing and especially for something that big. But it was nothing compared to when Gladio took the towel off and it was then Aquas decided it best if he let him be the first one to shower from now on.

The first thing Aquas saw was his firm, beautifully sculpted ass as he bent over to grab a pair of underwear, his cheeks spreading just enough to catch a glimpse of his tight hole. Aquas' breath caught when Gladio lifted a leg to start pulling his clothes back on, revealing a heavy set of balls and a head that made the thief's mouth begin to water. Somewhere in the back of his mind he began to wonder if he was doing this on purpose, but he didn't care. Gladio had began to turn when he heard Aquas' gasp, forcing him to act quickly as though he'd moved wrong, gripping his left side as though it were in pain. Thankful that the Shield failed to question him further.

Aquas made for the bathroom as casually as he could while trying to conceal his raging hard-on. With the door firmly closed behind him, the thief breathed out a sigh of relief as he freed his member from his constricting pants. It twitched slightly at the touch of his hand, a pearl of precum forming at the slit. Under any other situation, he'd be surprised that he was this excited just from seeing a bit cock and ass. But his thoughts were far too clouded with lustful want that all could think about was getting that man into his bed at least once. Turning on the water, he hoped to the Six that it was enough to drown out the sounds of his muffled grunts and moans as he jerked off to the image of Gladio bent over the bed, spreading cheeks, and begging for the thief's cock in his waiting hole. Just thought of that image alone did it, sending spurts of ecstasy and seman through his member, forcing him to bite hard into his shirt balled up in his mouth to cut out the moan of pure pleasure that followed. Licking up the mess on his hands, Aquas undressed and inspected his healing wounds. Some had closed enough to not be rebandaged later, but new bruises and small cuts had appeared.

During his shower, Aquas' mind began to clear and one thing stood clearly in the forefront of his thoughts. He wanted Gladio, wanted him badly. He began to ponder how he was going to get the jump on the Prince's Shield. He was sure that it wasn't going to be an easy task and it somehow made him want it more. If past encounters, both hostile and sexual, were anything to go by, Aquas would have to make his move when the Shield was at his most vulnerable, more pliable to the thief's temptations. He was sure to have plenty of oppurtunities whilst he and Gladio were hunting seperate from the main group. As he dried off, he gave himself an assured look in the mirror, determined to capture his prize.

As Aquas had suspected, his goal wasn't that simple to achieve, but not for the reasons he thought. It had to do more with oppurtunity and stamina. Apparently, the two of them seemed to be evenly matched in terms of endurance, with the slight possibility that he would have the upperhand if he were at a hundred percent. Granted, he could just crack open a potion and be done with it if it werent for the fact that he enjoyed the intamacy that he shared with Gladio when he redressed his wounds; giving up on doing it himself in favor of leaving it to the Shield's surprisingly gentle hands. Finding the idea of someone's intent of making sure he was doing well both soothing and a bit nostalgic. The reminder of something that he held twice before it was stolen from him gave him strong motivation to take it back and never let it go ever again. It certainly didn't help that the man gave off an aura of security that Aquas had been sorely lacking the majority of his life. Both times that he possesed it, it was only briefly before it was thrown away by the cruel hand of Fate.

As for oppurtunities, they were slim to none and were usually too small of a window for the thief to slip through. Everytime, it would frustrate Aquas and he'd take refuge either in the bathroom or on the rooftop of one of the few buildings within the vicinity of the hotel. It was almost like Gladio was taunting him, but the thief had a feeling that none of it was really on purpose and more of his own attraction and want making normal things either incredably cute or super sexual. How can someone be so adorable... (Cut to Gladio playing with a puppy that came through a few days ago) ...AND HOT AT THE SAME TIME! (Cuts to Gladio splatered with demon blood striking the perfect pose of masculine sexuality) More than once, he was sorely tempted to either resond in kind or lash out with harsh word. But he quelled those temptations so as to not squander his efforts thus far, haveing achieved a close enough bond that Gladio had become quite comfortable around Aquas and granted him his trust (Gods I hate playing the pronoun game!). All of Aquas' old instincts told him to just grin and bear it until the perfect oppurtunity presented itself to him. But by the Six did it irratate him to see his prize constantly just outside his grasp.

It made him feel guilty at times, viewing such a wonderful guy like Gladio as a prize of his lust and selfish wants to be won. In the past, if he wanted something, he'd take it without so much as a second thought so long as it satisfied him. But Aquas' time in Insomnia had changed that way of thinking just enough to make him step back and evaluate what the cost would be to go through with it after almost a week after the split with the Prince and the rest of his reutine. On the one hand, he was on good terms with Gladio which, in turn, would put him on good terms with everyone that trusted his judgement. While on the other hand, it was obvious that the man had fantasized about banging the thief and would stare at his ass when he thought Aquas wasn't paying attention. But the consequences of this course of action could be too severe if he screwed it up on the follow through, Aquas almost wanted to throw in the towel and call it a lost cause.

Almost.

It all came down to a single phone call from Noctis, the sounds of an arguement between Ignis and Prompto could be heard from Aquas' place on his bed. After a week, Cor had finally found a way around the Nift's barricade and wanted all of them to meet up somewhere just outside the Prairie Outpost at fifteen hundred hours tomorrow. This was it, it was do or die time and Aquas was almost certain that he wouldn't have another chance for these conditions anytime in the near future. He was just going to have to risk it and go for broke. So when Gladio went for his shower that night, Aquas grabbed the hi-potion that he'd squireled away in his bag and drank as much as he could before it disappaited into the ether. With all of his aches and pains soothed and his stamina restored, the thief felt confident that he held the greater advantage and was ready to make a mad dash towads his goal.

Aquas only had a few minutes to make a plan for how he was going to do this. It wasn't going to be as smooth as his past pursuits, but Gladio was well worth the risks involved with such an impulsive plan if he pulled it off, he'd just have to make use of his prized silver tongue. The only thing that made him anxious (hell, everything made him want to crawl out of his skin at this point) was then unpredictability of the scenes to follow. Basically, was he playing Pitcher or Catcher? Gods knew he wanted to do both. He usually knew exactly what he wanted, whether it were giving it to some needy twunk or being the plaything of a commanding brute of a man, he knew what he was getting into. But, as previously stated, he really wanted both and it was iratating only being able to see Gladio as the latter and wanting to do so much to that godly ass of his. But this conflict was short lived as the bathroom door began to open, it was now or never as Aquas prepared to live with the consequences, good or bad. He just prayed to Etro that the outcome was in his favor.

In mere seconds, Aquas had the man pinned against the wall with his staff, forearms trapped under it along with his neck to keep him from escaping. He took exception to this, "What the fuck are you doin'," he snarled loudly, Aquas enjoying being this close to his face.

"Isn't it obvious," replied the thief, his voice sweet like poisoned honey, "I'm about to get what I want."

"And what's that," he asked, growling as he fought against his restraints, but to no avail, "Lemme guess, you want me dead!"

"Now sweetheart," his voice playfully coy, "if I wanted that, don't'chu think I'd've done it by now? No, what I want is mutually..." pausing to looking him in the eye and cock an eyebrow, "beneficial."

"Oh yeah, what's that," he grunted, face reddening from his struggle and embarassment of his predicament. He could feel his towel slipping from his hips.

"Playin' dumb, huh," pressing himself closer to Gladio, face close enough to count the stubble on his chin, "Did you really think I wouldn't notice ya starin' at me like a staved coyote?"

"I have no idea whatcher talkin' about!"

"Oh really? Then what's this," palming Gladio's hard member, making groan with supressed pleasure, "I saw you in Hammerhead, heard the straining in yer voice, and found the box and took a peek inside. I gotta say, I'm surprised..."

"Surprised at what," he panted, at bit paniced now.

"That guy with yer confidence didn't have the courage to make a move sooner, that a guy with yer brains didn't figure I was on t' ya, and a fella such as yerself," licking his lips as he looked him over, Gladio catching himself watching the motion, "wouldn't dream that I'd be into ya, even after all the hints I dropped, not that it matters anymore. So what's yer plan darlin'? Will you steal control from me or am I takin' point?"

Gladio felt Aquas back off him a little, the pressure of the staff releaving just enough to give him some wiggle room. It was like the thief wanted him to take charge, an invitation to put sword lilies in some water, so to speak. If he could just break free of Nigrum's hold, he'd be the one pinned against the wall instead of Gladio. He got his chance when Aquas reached down to remove his towel. He grabbed the thief by the shoulders, spun them around, and slammed him into the wall. The thief still grinned like a cheshire cat before Gladio pulled him in and stole the first kiss.

It was a wild and hungry kiss, clashing of tongues that fought for dominance as breathy moans escaped from them both. Aquas had conceded, relenting control to the younger man. No longer concerned with winning this game of tonsil hockey, the thief's hand traveled downwards, catching on the zipper of the only barrier between him and the bliss of skin on skin contact. Not one for standing on ceremony, Aquas released his straining member and began grinding up against Gladio.

Breaking apart, "Greedy bastard, ain't'cha," grunted the Shield smugly.

"Yer one t' talk," taunted Aquas, his voice husky, "Better add kinky too while yer at it, ya were harder than Bahamut's scales when I had ya pinned."

"It's not everyday a guy fucks his favorite pornstar."

"It could be if we play our cards right," gently placing his index finger Gladdy's swollen, lower lip, "and no one has to know if ya don't want them to."

"Ya must be some kind of succubus to turn me on like this," he growled, sucking on his finger before it was pullled away.

"They're called incubi honey," chuckled the thief, alight with playfulness, "and you keep this sorta talk up, ya won't sleep t'night."

"That sounds like a challenge," he grinned, pulling at the fastenings of Aquas' armor, letting the pieces fall to the floor.

In less than a minute, the two stood on equal thanks to Gladio's seemingly practiced hands. "You've done this before," purred the thief with obvious delight.

"Yer not the only one who can make men bend to your will," he simpered, bringing him in for another kiss, this time gentle as he steered him towards the bed.

When they broke apart, Aquas added, "Well ya certainly know how to make a guy feel special."

Laying the thief on his back, Gladiolus crawled on the bed after him like a predator would prey. The sight was intoxicating, flooding Aquas' brain with lustful as his hands moved unabidened to explore the large expanse of skin and muscle he'd been longing for and was now his. Gladio attacked his lips once more, moving to nip at the thief's jawline, eliciting sounds of pleasure deep from his chest. Aquas dug his nails into his back when found the sensitive spot in the hollow of his neck, mewling loudly. Aquas was shameless in every sense of the word, by the sounds he made Gladio found the soft spots of his body and to the way he apraised the pure muscle on top of him like it were made of gold, groping what parts he like the most.

The Shield continued his path southward and got quite close to his member before Aquas shook things up. He had tried to flip them over, but Gladio wasn't about to let that happen. With a possesive growl, he pinned the thief to the bed with strength that seemingly came from no where, leaving marks from his grip. Aquas' eyes widened at the act of dominance, so used to being the one to lead, it was new to be powerless and he found it... exciting. Sure enough, he'll get his turn, but he let Gladio do what he wanted for now.

Returning to his previous position, the Shield began to toy with the thief's cock, thumbs circling the sensitive flesh where his leg met his groin. His sure grip kept Aquas' hips from bucking at the pleasurable torture, moaning in disappointment each time Gladio purposely failed to take his member into his mouth, teasing him to the point his hands were twisting in the sheets as creative curses flew from his tongue everytime he felt his lips brush over his head. Finally, with a predetorial hum, Gladio gave the thief what he wanted and took his leaking member all the way to the back of his throat, enjoying his taste as a new string of curses followed in heavily past lust. Still pinned by the Shield's grip, Aquas was unable to move when he bobbed his head a couple times, slow and steady before he took that beautiful mouth away. He almost whined at the loss before the brute did something truely dirty.

Gladio's face had disappeard as he went further down, Aquas had a moment to process that his cheek were spreading apart before he was lost in pleasure yet again. If either of them were truely an incubus, Gladio took that title with gusto as he rimmed him mercirously and further making the thief out as his bitch. It didn't slip past Aquas, even in his fevered mind, that Gladio enjoyed having him helpless beneath his touch and ministrations. So when he pulled away to begin to preping him, the thief pushed off the bed hard as he could and toppled Gladio over on the floor. With a wicked grin as he was now on top, Aquas spit on his hand to reach behind and begin lubing the man's cock, enjoying the power he held in his hand as he watched the Shield's face twist with pleasure. He groaned when he took his hand away, not even feeling the pressure of Aquas' body leave his body, only knowing what came next. Both of them moaned in a mixture of pleasures as Aquas' ass swallowed his member inch by quickly passing inch. Panting when he was fully seated on Gladio, he began to grind ever so slowly, making them both shudder at sensations it brought.

"Move! Dammit," grunted Gladio, grabbing his hips and forcing them up before they were stubbornly slammed back down.

"Not so fun being the one teased is it," Aquas managed to pant out, smiling michievious as he went back to straddling his cock.

Again, Aquas had failed to not to underestimate Gladio's brute strength as he lifted them both from the ground, proceeding to slam him into a wall and thrust in and out furiously. All the thief could do was wrap his legs around him and hold on as he had his way, feeling his disadvantage as the pleasure began to coil in his groin. By his desperate pace, Gladio seemed to be just as close, but it was still a race that Aquas was going to lose.

"Fuck, I'm gonna..." he cursed, pulling at his dick.

"Yeah, me too," husked Gladio, "Go on. Shoot for me."

That did it, Aquas' pleasure had peaked at that moment. Curses and gasps of pleasure escaped him as ropes of seman shot from his cock, coating both of their chests as Gladio pushed in for a kiss as he rode out his own orgasim as his own member was gripped by a vice. Panting, the both waited for the last waves of pleasure to fade out as they softened, the Shield still buried to the hilt in the thief. Pulling out, he walked him back over to the bed with him still in his arms before gently laying him it before falling right next to him, surprised when the thief rolled over and layed his head on his shoulder.

"It's beens years since I've had this much fun in bed," he said, happily hugging the man next to him, far more relaxed than he had been in years.

"Glad you enjoyed yerself," grunted Gladio, wrapping his arm around him in return. Eyeing the clock on the table, he added, "We should get ready for tomorrow."

"In a minute," he hummed, "Greedy, remember?"

"I never said now, did I," he asked, amused.

"A man after my own heart..."

Finshed! Finally finshed! I know that I'm very late with this one, but honestly had very little time to work on it even though it's my main focus now. But its done and that's what matters. I've also made Aquas in comarades as best I could, so PS4 users, you might find me everynow and again. That is if the severs can pull themselves together and stop booting me offline, never had this problem with Overwatch with our boondocks internet connection. Also, Happy Almost 1 year Anniversery XV! Well, see ya guys next chapter! Whenever that is!

P.S. A fun little fact I came cross during research for another project, the eagle is a spirt animal that symbolizes sexual power and who do we know that has an eagle tattoo?