Title: Not a fairytale
Genre: Angst, hurt/comfort, humor, romance
Summary: Starts midway to chapter 4 and ends midway to chapter 5. Noctis' POV. Includes some additional previously unmentioned fluffy scenes. Because I need fluff. And you do, too.

Warning: Hasn't been beta-read. Probably won't have time to check it for even the most basic errors. Happy typo hunting!

Bonus chapter

Noctis' phone buzzed. He pointedly ignored it and took a swig from his beer.

"Not answering that?" the bartender asked as he wiped the counter from a previous patron's spilled drink.

It was early afternoon. The bar was empty save for him and the barkeep. Noctis had taken a liking to this bar after he and his three friends made a habit of visiting it daily. It was also the very same bar Luna and the two Galahdans spent their last night together. Inhaling and exhaling slowly, he forced the memory of the photo out of his mind. He was trying to forget or at the very least ignore the glaive's influence over his wife.

"I know who it is", the glum prince grunted.

Understanding seemed to dawn on the older man. "Ah. Yer avoiding 'er."

Noctis' head flicked up, eyes narrowing in suspicion. "I never said it was a she."

"That ye didn't, but I've been in business long enough to recognize a man who's been rejected." The bartender set his rag down and smiled sadly at the Lucian. "Gonna risk sounding cliché, but there's plenty o' fish in the sea. The 'eartache will pass an' ye'll find a bonnie lass who appreciates ye."

Noctis scoffed and downed rest of his drink. It was his third beer. He was mildly buzzed. He was tempted to order another, but he knew his limits and wasn't quite that irresponsible; Ignis and Cor had made sure of that by painting enough horror imagery in his brain about getting hammered and taken advantage of. Instead he pushed his empty pint away from him to signal he was done. "Afraid that doesn't apply to me. I'm married." He removed his motorcycle glove to reveal his wedding band.

"Ain't my business, but 'aving a lover or two is regular practice 'ere. Yer still young and 'andsome." The older man eyed his black clothes curiously. "'course, I don't know 'ow things work in Insomnia."

"Committing adultery is a serious offence and considered a taboo", Noctis recited. "I'd rather be in an unhappy marriage than be disloyal to my wife."

The bartender shook his head blew a low whistle. "Ye 'ave my respect fer commitment, but I don't see 'ow ye can stay sane – or sober – fer long."

"Honestly, I don't know either", the prince muttered and rubbed his face.

"So tell me… Does yer wife stay as loyal to ye as ye do fer 'er? Seems awfully unfair if it goes one way and not the other."

Noctis suspected the man was bored out of his mind and eager to stick his nose in people's personal affairs for entertainment's sake. After all he was the only customer present in the small outdoors bar. Even so, Noctis figured it wouldn't hurt to give voice to his problems. He didn't exactly have anyone else he could turn to. His friends were back in Insomnia and while Gentiana would probably stay neutral between the royal couple, he didn't feel comfortable talking about his inner most feelings to just anyone. Luna had been his confidant and the one he would turn to when he couldn't handle his feelings alone, but now that option was out of the question.

He stared at the counter in thought. Technically Luna hadn't cheated on him, since they weren't married when she had had an affair with Nyx Ulric. Even if she in her delirious state of mind had mistaken Noctis for the glaive and attempted to bed him, Noctis didn't think she would actually commit the act if she was fully aware and Nyx came to visit. She had said as much and he had detected no signs of deceit, but that hardly counted for anything considering she had lied right in his face about her feelings towards him. He didn't doubt she had mastered the poker face while she had been living under Ravus' watchful eye. Still, he trusted her. Ignis would've called it naiveté; Prompto would've called it optimism.

Sighing, the prince leaned his chin on his hands and looked up to the sympathetic man who patiently waited for his answer. "She is loyal. I just expected too much from her and mistook her pity for genuine love."

The bartender winced in empathy. "Can't say I come across a story like yers every day. Arranged marriages are ancient 'istory in these parts of the globe." He took Noctis' glass and replaced it with a full one. "This one's on the house."

Wordlessly the Lucian emptied the pint while the bartender went to prepare for the upcoming rush hours. He set the glass down and left the bar.

Noctis wandered aimlessly the busy streets. Hours passed and soon the afternoon sun disappeared behind the watery horizon to make way for dusk. Noctis glanced up at the night sky. The moon was hidden behind a dense cloud formation. His lips quirked involuntarily at the irony; the moon was beyond his sight just as Luna was out of his reach. Tiredly the prince sat down by the docks and watched boats and ships float by. It was late and he couldn't stay outdoors forever, but he was nowhere near ready to face his wife and the pity and guilt in her sad eyes. His phone vibrated in his pocket. He took it out and read the texts she had sent him throughout the day.

'I'm on my way home from the meeting.'

'Gentiana has something she would like to discuss.' He doubted that. If the serene attendant had any business with him, she would simply call him herself.

'Please come home.'

His eyes turned to skim the latest unread message.

'Noct, I'm getting really worried.' At least he was able to invoke something other than pity in her, he thought bitterly.

He pocketed his phone and pulled his knees to his chest. Letting his chin rest against his knees, he listened to the sea traffic, lapping of waves and cries of seagulls. He dozed off to the smell of salt water and street food.

Noctis jumped when something poked his back. He was on his feet, Engine Blade in hand before his drowsy mind registered his present company as none other than Umbra.

"Hey, boy. Came to check up on me?" he murmured and knelt down to scratch behind the husky's ears. Umbra whimpered mournfully and pawed at his pant leg as if sensing the prince's mood. Without giving it much thought, Noctis pulled the dog into a hug. He really needed it more than all the free beer the bartender could throw at him. He wished Luna would hold him, stroke his back and assure him she really did love him, but that was nothing more than a childish fantasy. Should it come to pass, he would know she was lying. He was nothing to her; just a lovesick puppy that she didn't have the heart to throw away. Umbra barked in protest when the hug tightened. Snapping out of his self-pity, Noctis loosened his hold on the dog.

"Sorry, boy. Didn't mean to smother you."

Wiping his teary eyes, his gaze fell to the cloth binding on the canine's leg. Mentally bracing himself, he removed it with trembling hands and unfolded the letter.

'I know you are avoiding me and you do not wish to have anything to do with me. But please return home before I am forced to alarm a search party and raise unnecessary ruckus. -L'

He hadn't bothered to reply to her text messages and let her know he was alright and in no danger. He didn't benefit anything from staying outdoors. He was merely putting off the inevitable.

Folding the letter, Noctis stood up and pocketed it before following Umbra back to their suite.

The corridors were quiet, only a servant or two passed him and politely bid him goodnight. He silently entered their shared bedchamber. Umbra wagged his tail in parting and left. His and Pryna's sleeping mattresses were in the sitting room.

The lights were out. He could make out Luna's still figure under the thin sheets. As he walked closer he noticed dark bruises covering her bare biceps. His blood ran cold, shame twisting his insides. He had hurt her. She may have stomped on his heart and feelings, but he had left visible marks of violence on the woman he loved. He needed to apologize. Quietly he knelt in front of her still form. Her breathes were slow and shallow as a sleeping person's, but as he studied her in silence he noted that she was too still. No twitching of fingers, no movement under her eyelids, no sleepy mumbling or sighing. She must've been awake all this time. Why did she feign sleep? Was she purposely ignoring him? Maybe she was angry at him for not answering her messages and for hurting her.

It was still too soon. They were both hurting. Tomorrow. He would try apologizing to her tomorrow.

Sighing, he went behind the screen and changed into his black silken pajamas. His steps slowed down as he approached the bed. After few seconds of contemplating he chose to settle down as far from her as he could. She didn't even stir as the mattress dipped under his weight. It reminded him of their wedding night. She had had her back towards him and he had huddled next to the bed's edge after she had bluntly turned him down. He really hoped it wouldn't be like this for the rest of their marriage. As much as it hurt to know that she found his physical proximity appalling, he couldn't help but wish that she would pretend for his sake. He physically missed her body's warmth and softness pressed against his. It felt strange to be back where they began; apart and yearning.

For a moment he entertained himself with the image of her turning around and wrapping her dainty arms around his torso. How would he react? Would he turn to her like a man in a desert who had just found his oasis or would he shove her away? What if instead of pushing her he would just leave and go sleep in the guest room? Or maybe he would do nothing. Just keep still and force himself to be indifferent. All scenarios he could conjure up in his mind seemed to only end with more heartache and confusion. There was no way out of this mess. He couldn't force her to love him nor could he take Nyx's place in her heart, just as she couldn't keep pretending for his sake. It had been only a matter of time before her true feelings surfaced. And today had been that day.

He had tried his best to appear more appealing to his wife. He had followed Gentiana's instructions to a T. He let his facial hair grow, he helped his wife with her duties, he shared his hobbies and made up new ones for the two to share together. He once even attempted to wear white, but that only resulted with Luna asking if all of his clothes were in the laundry line. He had claimed he had been practicing adjusting to Tenebraean culture and climate. She had merely chuckled and told him he could and should wear his home country's traditional colours with pride. He was still Lucian royalty even far away from home. In his naïve mind he had interpreted her words as accepting him as her husband.

When she had told him her made-up wish and included him in it, he had thought he had finally secured a place within her heart. He had later woken up from their brief nap to the sight of her sleeping features mere inches away from his. Adoration had overwhelmed him. Emboldened by her earlier 'confession', he had dared to plant small kisses across her pale cheeks. What happened afterwards had completely caught him off-guard. His rational mind had been dulled with lust and the exhilarating feeling of her flexible body wrapped around his so intimately. He might have taken her then and there. He couldn't say for sure even now. Had she not uttered Nyx's name in her half-asleep state, he would have never known of her true feelings.

Anger coursed through him as he stared at the roof. He had been such a blind fool not to pick up on it sooner. All the signs had been there; the photos and Luna's hesitancy towards any and all physical gestures of affection. Yet during the course of the week he had felt they had gotten closer. They weren't strangers anymore; they had been as close as they were as children.

Noctis squeezed his eyes shut. His mind was going in circles. Concentrating on drinking had kept his mind in one place. The after taste of beer reminded him he had not bothered to brush his teeth. Too tired to care, he turned to his side, his back facing his wife's. He listened to Luna's steady breathing for an hour before restless sleep claimed him.

The next morning he was greeted by the sight of an empty bed. Luna hadn't woken him up and was most likely long gone. The sun was high up in the sky. Only the sweet floral scent of her shampoo lingered within the sheets.

With an irritated sigh he got up and went to wash the previous night's grime and stench away. Gentiana had prepared a hot bath for him. He wasn't sure how she knew when he would wake up, but he appreciated her thoughtfulness nonetheless. Showers were a rarity in Altissia. Even within this expensive suite bathing was the only option. Noctis sat down in the decorated tub and let his slouched form sunk until his nose touched the surface.

Why hadn't she awoken him? With the amount of messages she had sent him, he had thought she would have wanted to at least talk with him. Maybe she had smelled him and thought he had passed out from drinking too much. She probably thought he was pathetic and didn't want to deal with his supposed hangover. He did have a dull headache, but he wasn't sure if it was purely a result from drinking.

He had no idea where she could be. It was way past midday, so he doubted he would find her in her small church. All he could do was wait for her to send him her coordinates. Then they would talk and he would apologize for assaulting her. She might apologize for lying to him or for not having feelings towards him. As much as he didn't want to, he would have to accept it and try to move on. If this was to be an unhappy marriage, the least he could do was try to keep it from sinking to the 'bitter marriage' -category.

By the time he managed to sort his jumbled mind, the water had cooled down to lukewarm. He hurried to wash himself and shave his facial hair and get ready for the day.

Afternoon came and he had yet to receive her location. He tapped his foot, pocketing and uncpocketing his phone impatiently. Not able to stand the idleness anymore, Noctis left the suite to find her on his own. If he was lucky she might not be far from the church. In worst case scenario she was visiting the smaller towns and villages of Accordo.

On his way to the church he was stopped by a cry of a frantic woman. He turned to eye the civilian as she grabbed a police officer by the collar and screamed at him to do something. The prince approached the forming crowd of curious bystanders.

"Is there nothing you can do at all?!"

"I can only inform the coast guards and request them to double their efforts. Everything else is out of my jurisdiction."

Noctis pushed past the civilians and made his way to the pair. "What's the matter?" he casually asked.

"There's a giant scorpion killing innocent people on the opposite shore yet nobody does anything about it! My son is in the hospital thanks to that monstrosity!" The policeman tried to pry her hands off him, but her desperation driven hold was surprisingly strong. "How many deaths does it take before people get their fingers off their ar–"

Noctis carefully pulled the woman from the policeman and turned her to face him. "Can you take me to it?"

The woman blinked a few times in disbelief before stammering: "Y-you'll really help? How? You're just a kid."

A small sly smile tugged at the prince's lips. "I have experience with population control."

Turns out when the woman said 'a giant scorpion' she really meant a giant scorpion. Its diet must've consisted of steroids, Noctis mused as he seized up the truck sized beast. The creature didn't react as he walked closer. It must've recently eaten to act so passively. He almost felt bad for having to put it down until he saw a strip of clothing hanging from its chelicerae. The same rule applied within Insomnia; if a beast tasted human flesh it was to be put down to ensure it wouldn't actively seek human prey.

Noctis crouched and crawled underneath the scorpion, avoiding its spider-like legs. He summoned his broadsword and with all his strength struck the giant beast's belly. With a surprised squeal the scorpion jumped back and lashed out with its huge pincers. Noctis phased through the attack and rolled out of the way of the scorpion's stomping pointy ended legs. Its carapace was as tough as Noctis had suspected. He warped on top of the trashing scorpion and struck his spear through its armour. He didn't have time to dismiss his spear as his adversary's flexible tail came down towards him at an alarming speed. At the last second Noctis managed to phase through the poisonous stinger, but he lost his balance and fell down from the scorpion's back. His spear remained stuck in its neck.

Angry clicking of chelicerae woke him from his brief stupor. He warp struck to get some distance between himself and the angry scorpion. Remembering the magic flask he had brought with him, he took it out and threw it towards the arachnid. It burst up in flames. Noctis covered his eyes as the searing heat licked his face. He had a bad habit of underestimating the fire spell's radius. The magical flames engulfed the scorpion and melted its hard carapace until only vulnerable flesh was left to protect its innards. Noctis summoned his Engine Blade and finished the job.

Weeks of neglecting training made his muscles ache from the fight. It felt good to have adrenaline pumping in his veins and magical energy warming his fingertips. For a brief moment he had forgotten all about Luna and the sting of rejection. He wanted more of this mental numbness. He wanted to lose himself to the battle-frenzy. Dismissing his weapon, Noctis pushed his boat off the shore, revved the engine and guided the boat back to the capital.

"Say what? Ye want to take on hunts? Colour me surprised."

"I'm more than capable", the Lucian insisted.

The bartender held his hands up. "I don't doubt yer skills. Just unusual fer a tourist to take an interest in slaying local pests."

"I need something to distract myself with. Drinking here every day will keep me occupied only for so long."

The older man caved in and pointed towards the billboard. "All the most dangerous nasties are listed there. If ye want to collect the bounty ye'll have to bring souvenirs; a picture or a body part as proof."

"Can do both." The prince smirked confidently. Most of the marks appeared to be territorial beasts, but there were one or two daemons as well. "Daemons?" He glanced at the bar owner expectantly.

Sighing, the man set his rag aside. "Aye. Those two appear every night around the coast. Lady Lunafreya has banished most o' the nasties, but these are too clever fer their own good. They run off the second she sets 'er feet on the beach only to return when she 'as left." He crossed his stocky arms. "Might I suggest ye start with the small fry before ye go an' get yerself killed. Wouldn't wanna lose a regular customer."

Noctis scoffed. "I can handle myself. Besides, the longer I put off fighting them, the more people will die and the more Lun– Lady Lunafreya has to work." He might not have been actively trying to hide his identity, but he wasn't about to go and outright confirm it.

"Can't argue with that logic", the man mumbled. "But don't say I didn't warn ye!"

It was three in the morning when Noctis returned to the suite. He quietly made his way to his and Luna's bedroom. At the last corner he bumped into a servant girl. She gasped loudly, her eyes widening in panic. She would have woken up everybody within the suite with a high-pitched scream had Noctis not forcefully clamped her mouth shut. Having heard the servant's gasp, Gentiana came to investigate the scene.

"Highness?" She eyed his bloodied torn clothes and charred skin. His fight with the iron giant's evil red cousin hadn't gone quite as smoothly as he had expected.

"Sorry. Didn't mean to scare you." The prince removed his soot covered hand from the servant girl.

"A strange time to return home, not to mention the state you're in."

"I can come back later, if it bothers you", Noctis snapped. He instantly regretted his words and lowered his head in shame. "… Sorry."

Gentiana waved her hand in dismissal. "You've clearly had a long night. Explanations can wait till tomorrow. Come, let's have a look at your wounds."

"It's not my blood", he protested but obediently followed the attendant to the kitchen. She poured water into a basin and had the frightened servant girl ready a hot bath for the prince in the guest room as not to wake up Luna. On the older woman's request Noctis stripped himself from his coat and shirt. Tiny scratch marks covered his torso. A pack of goblins had heard the sounds of fighting between him and the daemon and attempted to catch him off-guard by overwhelming him with sheer numbers. After he had dealt with the smaller pests, the Big Ol' Red had invited his bomb buddies to the party. The thin hairs on his uncovered arms had burnt off. Were it not for the scorch marks, cuts, bruises and burns on his arms, his skin would've been smooth as a child's.

"Hard to believe a little scratch mark can smart like that", he hissed as Gentiana applied antiseptic on his cuts.

"Must've been quite the battle", the attendant mused as she continued to work.

"Oh, you have no idea", he muttered. He had fought for three hours with nary a breather. The stench of freshly spilt blood had attracted other daemons and nocturnal creatures alike to join the fray. Instead of retreating, he had drawn his magical reserves to grant him inhuman endurance and stamina. He had relished in the thrill of battle and exchanging his mental agony to physical pain. He had been in his element. Fighting was something he excelled in. Not even the Kingsglaive could surpass him when it came to raw strength and magical capabilities. He'd like to see Nyx try wielding a broadsword while battling against overwhelming numbers.

"Gil for your thoughts", Gentiana's calm voice interrupted his jealous ranting. She had finished cleaning his cuts and applying cooling gel on his burns. Noctis pulled on his bloodied shirt. His coat was in need of heavy mending if he were to wear it again in public. It had been partly burnt, partly torn apart.

"What's your opinion?" he blurted.

The dark-haired attendant raised a brow. "On what matter?"

"On…" Me and Luna's chances of being happy together. "… Me slaying daemons", he lamely finished.

Her eyes narrowed slightly in suspicion, but her pleasant smile remained. "It is a great boon for the Altissians. I'm sure Lady Lunafreya would agree. Why not let her know of your deeds?" she encouraged.

"I don't think she wants to talk." His gaze fell to his lap.

"What makes you say that?" she gently pried.

"She didn't wake me up or let me know her location. I think she's…" he trailed off and hung his head in shame.

"Yes?" she propped.

"She might be afraid of me", his voice cracked. "I hurt her. I physically hurt her."

Gentiana pulled her seat next to his and stroked his hunched back comfortingly. "She deals with beings the size of cities. She is not easily frightened", she reminded him.

The prince's eyes remained downcast. "But I'm her husband. I'm supposed to protect her from harm, not cause it."

"Then apologize to her."

Frustration crept into his voice. "I can't when we're never in the same place at the same time!"

"Then take your phone and call her. If she's in a meeting and won't answer, leave her a message. It is as simple as that." Her eyes twinkled in good humour. "And unlike a certain Lucian, she's known to come home by 10pm every evening."

Noctis sighed. "Okay." Tomorrow he would apologize to her.

"Good. I believe your bath is ready."

As Noctis left the kitchen, he could swear he heard the attendant mutter: "Young people these days… Unnecessarily complicating things."

The following day was much the same as the previous. She was gone by the time he woke up – not a surprise considering how late he had went to bed. There were no new messages from her. He spent most of the day in Umbra and Pryna's company or texting with his friends and asking for advice. Prompto suggested he confront her before bed when they would surely be in the same room while Gladio vehemently disagreed, claiming he should first soften her with gifts. Ignis leaned on the most practical route of calling her right away. So Noctis called her, but the call went to her voicemail. He swallowed heavily and gathered his courage.

"Luna, I –" The battery of his phone died. He had forgotten to charge it after spending all day talking with his friends.

"Fuck!" Angrily he shoved the useless phone in his pocket and threw himself on the couch. He covered his eyes with his arm and fumed silently. Even were he to charge his phone, he'd still have to deal with the answering machine. He wanted to talk to her in person.

Umbra's snout poked his side. Noctis lifted his arm to peer at the husky. Of course. He could always send her a letter! Better than a soulless text message.

With new vigor he jumped to his feet and took Luna's feather pen and fumbled her desk's drawers for paper. He tapped the feather against his chin in thought as he tried to think of the most elegant and appealing way to put his thoughts into words. He saw from the corner of his vision Gentiana standing by the doorway. He could sense her pleased smile before she disappeared to give him privacy. It took him half an hour to write the letter. He held it with ink stained fingertips and skimmed through it for any obvious misspellings.

A servant knocked on the door.

"Enter." Noctis quickly folded his letter.

"I have a letter to the Lady Lunafreya, Your Highness."

"You may leave it on the desk." The servant did as she was told and left with a respectful curtsy.

Noctis had no intention on reading her mail, but the stamp of Insomnia piqued his interest. Could it be from his father? If it was, then it would be alright for him to read it, right? He hadn't heard from his father since the last letter from two weeks ago. Noctis would be lying if he said he wasn't at least a little worried for his old man. He knew the king was giving him space and letting him concentrate on his wife, but he still couldn't help but jump at the chance of finding about his current condition.

Taking a fancily decorated letter opener, he carefully opened the envelope and pulled out its contents. The handwriting was definitely not his father's or anyone else's he recognized.

'Dearest Lunafreya,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. It has been merely three weeks since we shared our last meal together at The Bismarck yet I already miss you terribly. I haven't heard from you since your wedding. I had Crowe record the broadcast of the ceremony, so I could watch it after work. I have to say you looked absolutely stunning. Gentiana really outdid herself. I may have wished to trade places with the good Prince on more than one occasion.

Speaking of the Prince, has he treated you well? I realize you're childhood friends, but people can change vastly over twelve years. I can't say I have had the chance to really get to know His Highness during my years as a glaive. He was always an odd one, preferred to keep to himself and cause no small amount of grief to His Majesty with his rebellious nature. I hope your influence will help him grow into a better man. Only Reaper knows how many more years we can enjoy King Regis' rule before the Prince is forced to take his place. The last thing this country needs is an irresponsible and immature man accepting the weight of the crown.

I speak ahead of myself. I did not mean to burden you with internal politics.

King Regis sends his regards. He seemed gladdened when he found out you and I are 'friends'. I use the term loosely. Truth is I miss everything about you. Your quick wit, your sharp tongue. I still remember how you were quick to put me in my place when I made my intentions towards you known. But I'm glad I could get through to you in the end for I don't regret a moment with you. I only wish I could turn back time and discard my duty in favour of snatching you from the altar. We both know neither of us would go along with it, even if we like pretending otherwise. Duty always came first to you and I.

While my duty may bind me here, should you and the Prince ever come to visit, know that my services are ever at your disposal.

Yours,

Nyx Ulric'

The letter wrinkled from his shaking hands. White noise buzzed in his ears as blood gushed to his head. All he could see was the glaive's taunting words jumping in his vision until it all blurred into an unreadable smudge. oddoneirresponsibleimmatureservicesatyourdisposal He saw red. Before he realized what he was doing, the letter dissolved into charred pieces of burnt paper. Angrily he tossed what was left of the letter to the hearth. Umbra whined in distress, but the prince ignored him.

There was no way he'd let Luna read that prick's honeyed words. Nyx had already caused enough of a gap between Noctis and his wife. The last thing he wanted was her to be tempted to take on the glaive's offer. Taking his folded letter, he read it several times before letting it go up in flames. His words were nowhere near as flowery as the Galahdan's. His letter felt like a poor imitation in comparison. He tossed the remnants of his letter to join the glaive's in the fireplace and stomped off.

He needed a drink.

He returned home in time for dinner. He was drunk. The bartender had had the sense to talk the prince into leaving the bar before he was too deep in his cups. He felt confident enough to confront Luna and let her have a piece of his mind. He settled down in his usual seat next to hers and waited. Gentiana had assured him Luna was only changing clothes and would be joining him shortly. Noctis leaned his cheek against his palm and rapped the table's wooden surface with his fingers impatiently.

The dining room's door opened and Lunafreya entered. All his alcohol induced fighting words seemed to dissolve from his tongue. She looked exhausted, sickly even. He noted she was wearing long sleeves to cover her bruised arms. It reminded him of his original intention to talk to her. It wasn't to pick up a fight or to accuse her. It was to apologize to her for assaulting her. Her weary cerulean eyes met his.

"Noct", she greeted and sat down next to him. He only stared at her dumbly, not sure how to start the conversation. Servants served the food and left the couple in peace. They ate in silence. Noctis couldn't even remember what the food was; the food had tasted no better than ash in his mouth. All he could recall was the after taste of liquor burning in the back of his throat.

She finished her meal and daintily wiped her painted lips with a napkin. Since when did she wear lipstick while she was out? She wore only light natural looking makeup when she was performing her duties as an Oracle. He didn't recall her wearing lipstick even during political meetings. Had she done it for him? He couldn't seem to pull his gaze from those rose petal shaped lips. She cleared her throat. His attention snapped up to her eyes. She seemed expectant.

"Luna–"

"Noct–"

They awkwardly chuckled. "Go ahead", she allowed him to have the first word.

"I need to–"

Her phone rang.

Luna's eyes were apologetic as she took it out of her bag. "Hold that thought."

Annoyed, the prince covered her hand holding the phone with his. "Ignore it."

"I can't. It's Ravus. He doesn't take kindly to any signs of rebellion or disobedience."

He let out a sound akin to a low growl. "Tell him to piss off and call you later. He can wait a few minutes." He saw her nose crinkle as she smelled his alcohol induced breath.

"Noct, he might take the first flight to Altissia if he's even slightest bit suspicious. He's the embodiment of paranoia. I can't let you two cross paths, it'll only end in tears." She gently removed his hand and left the room to talk in private.

Anger surged through his veins. He could understand her duty taking priority over him, but now this? Even the brother she hardly had any relationship with took priority over him? And just when he was just about to reconcile.

His body was overwhelmed with restless energy that demanded to be unleashed. He left the suite and headed to his usual bar. The bar owner said nothing as Noctis pulled every high ranked bill from the board. Five hours later the prince returned. His clothes were covered in blood; the bartender even spotted beast guts sticking from his raven locks. His hoodie's sleeves were torn and showed the Lucian's toned arms covered in cuts and scratch marks. The older man had to pull the disoriented Lucian aside as not to frighten the other patrons.

"Ye look like hell, sonny. But I appreciate yer service. 'ere's the gil." He handed Noctis a heavy sack of gil.

"Keep it. I don't need it."

Surprised, the bartender eyed the miserable looking man. "At least take enough to buy yerself new clothes."

"It's fine. Give them to an orphanage or charity. I already gave the previous bounties to shelters. I doubt I'll ever need money."

Realization seemed to dawn on the older man as he eyed the Lucian's royal black clothes decorated in Reaper's symbols. "Yer Prince Noctis, I take it?" he hesitantly inquired.

The prince nodded mutely.

"I thought ye were just some tourist bloke from Insomnia. It's an 'onour to 'ave ye in my humble bar, Highness!" The man bowed low, but Noctis was quick to help him up.

"None of that. Just think of me as one of your regular patrons, nothing more."

It didn't take long for the media to catch a whiff of the Lucian Prince's presence within the bar. Noctis was ready to warp and hide, but the kindly bartender ran to his rescue and ushered the nosy journalists away.

"I owe ye tons, laddie. Both fer bein' a regular customer and fer makin' sure we get to sleep peacefully without none of them daemons harassing innocents. If ye ever need to unwind or vent 'bout yer matrimony, I'll be 'ere waitin'. Promise none of yer words will get leaked." He raised his hand in a solemn vow.

"Thanks."

Noctis went through the hunting billboard so quickly that the bartender had to direct him to join the annual tournament held in the coliseum to save some marks for the other hunters. The prince begrudgingly agreed and signed himself up to compete against fifty other contestants under the pseudonym of Stupeo – a light jab at his future Royal Advisor who had dropped his middle name for unknown reasons.

Not wanting to attract too much attention to himself, he took his old training gear which was modeled after the Crownsguard uniform. He did some minor adjustments and covered all the visible Reaper symbols. Black was acceptable as a representation of his home country, but wearing the symbols of his House's guardian deity was too obvious. He bought goggles from the city and added darkened lenses in them to hide his eyes. He covered his lower face with a black mask.

He summoned his Engine Blade. He would have to fight the temptation of using his magic and warping skills. Nothing screamed louder Lucian royalty than the tell-tale blue shadow of his warp strike. He was confident he would get far even without his advantages. All the intense training under Cor and Gladiolus would pay off.

The tournament lasted for several days. He passed each fight with flying colours and quickly gathered himself a very vocal fanbase. He was mostly known for his aerobatic fighting style and his unique choice of weapon. News reporters attempted to get an interview with him – along few other popular contestants – but he never accepted and opted to remain a faceless entity.

On the final fight he competed with four other contestants. One of them was a Niflheimian android. Noctis could tell most people didn't root for it solely because of its origins. There were few tech savvies in the audience that would cheer it on, but mostly people concentrated on the living, breathing contestants. The other three were an Accordian man wielding a spear, a Lestallumian who preferred daggers and throwing knives as well as a Tenebraean woman with a traditional military standardized rapier.

The woman reminded him of his wife with her long blond hair and fierce blue eyes. Maybe that was why in the end he let her take the glory of finishing off the giant malboro instead of taking the credit himself. That, or because the Tenebraean gladiator had saved him from being malboro snack. He had seriously considered letting himself get eaten in order to keep his identity a secret as well as to just end the pain and the frustration that had consumed him the past week. Thankfully it never came to that. He owed his father and friends. He couldn't take the cowardly route. Too much depended on him after his father passed away.

When he exited the coliseum with a silver trophy tugged under his arm and chatting excitedly with the Tenebraean gladiator, he spotted his wife's petite form amongst the masses. Her pure white Oracle's dress and trident were impossible to miss. Without thinking it over, he made his way to her.

"Thought you'd be busy with your duties."

She froze in her tracks and slowly turned to face him. "I heard you were participating." He highly doubted she dropped her daily duties just to come admire his fighting prowess. He tapped his sword's handle absently, waiting for her real reason. "I was worried." Ah, there it was.

"Now why would that be? Is it your duty as my wife to make sure I don't do anything reckless?" The only worry he could inspire in her was the fear of him messing something up or bringing shame to his father and country.

She flinched as if physically struck. His gaze involuntarily fell to her arms. She wore a white bolero over her dress that conveniently covered the bruises on her biceps. Something moved within him. He wanted to reach out to her.

"You could say that. But most of all I was worried my dearest friend who hasn't been quite clear in the head recently was biting more than he could chew."

Oh, now that was rich! All feelings of remorse vanished as quickly as they had appeared. "'Your dearest friend'", he snorted. "What a joke." He pushed past her to board the first available boat.

But Luna, his lovely, stubborn Luna hurried after him, heels clicking as she did her best not to stumble over the long hem of her dress. She jumped onboard before the boat had completely detached itself from the stone path's edge. She placed a hand over her collarbone as she attempted to catch her breath.

"Noct, you may not realize it, but my feelings for you have remained the same. Just because of", she awkwardly glanced at the boatman before lowering her voice, "our disagreement, doesn't mean I don't regard you as my friend."

He furrowed his brow and folded his arms. He was genuinely glad that she was making an effort to reconcile after his multiple failed attempts, but he wasn't content on being just her friend. He couldn't keep the bitterness from his tone. "So I've been friend-zoned by my wife. Great."

She grabbed his arm in an eerily similar manner to how he had grabbed hers a week ago and hissed: "We are not having this conversation here."

He pulled his arm from her grip with ease. "You started it."

With a frustrated huff she turned away from him. Noctis rolled his eyes and dismissed his Engine Blade before picking up his trophy. The boat came to a stop. He hopped off and left her to pay for the ride. A dick move, but he really didn't want to deal with her right now. He had been content with his victory at the coliseum. He wanted to savour it and forget about the shit between him and his wife.

"Noctis, wait."

He ignored her and picked up his pace. She proved to be surprisingly fast even in her unpractical dress as she hurried ahead of him and blocked his way.

"What do you want, Luna?"

She wasn't discouraged by his snarky attitude. "To clear the air between us."

"You made it perfectly clear that there was nothing romantic between us. The only one you have eyes for is your past flame." Whether he admitted it to himself or not, Nyx's letter still fed his restlessness and feelings of insecurity. "I don't see how you could possibly benefit from 'clearing the air between us'."

Losing her patience, she hit the cobblestone with her trident's blunt end. He suspected it was a habit she had developed while fighting to get her voice heard in the political battle field. "In case you have not noticed we are stuck with each other for the rest of our lives. The very least we can do is to get along. I had sworn to be your loyal companion and steadfast friend if nothing else."

He wasn't sure who she had made such an oath to. His father perhaps? Or maybe to the deities while they had been at the altar. He wasn't about to ask.

"Doesn't have to be so", he timidly began. She furrowed her brow in confusion.

He couldn't stand the thought of being nothing more than a childhood friend to her. He loved her. He loved her so much that he couldn't live with himself if he didn't give her the choice to leave him. He couldn't force her to be his nor could he imprison her in this forced marriage. He took a steadying breath as he sealed his fate.

"I could just move back to Insomnia while you go back to Tenebrae. You still have your duties and I have to ready myself to succeed the throne one day. You wouldn't have to see me ever again. Our marriage would still hold on paper, but you could have as many lovers as you want."

There. He had done the right thing. The rest was up to her.

"No."

He hadn't realized he had folded his arms defensively. He dropped them, followed by a dubious "Huh?"

"I won't leave you. Not ever. I didn't make my wedding vows lightly." Hope blossomed within his chest. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"I admit I have lied to you and given into your affections out of duty. I have always regarded you as my younger brother and having you touch me like that–" She lowered her eyes, shame weighing her cerulean gaze down. "It sickened me. For the longest time I've tried to fill up the hole in my heart left by Ravus. I sought platonic love from men who could not give it to me while in return I could not give them what they wanted."

He scratched his neck and shook his head in disbelief. "That doesn't make any sense. How come you thinking I was Nyx and trying to seduce me into bedding you count as need for platonic love? What is it that you're not telling me?"

"Nyx was the first man I ever had romantic feelings for", she admitted. "The more you and I exchanged letters the more I felt like I was slowly coming to terms with me and Ravus' nonexistent relationship. You filled that hole in me. Because of that I was able to feel other than platonic love towards Nyx." It sort of made sense the more he thought about it. But he couldn't honestly say he completely understood it. He had never experienced a dilemma such as hers.

He lifted his goggles to rest on his forehead and pulled his mask off. He didn't want to hide from her anymore. She was honest and open about herself and her feelings, she only deserved the same in kind. "Are you saying you're incapable of seeing me as your lover, because you replaced Ravus with me?"

She shook her head. "No. I just need time. I am confident I will fall in love with you, someday."

She believed she would fall in love with him. He could feel the familiar sense of weightlessness. The feeling of soaring when he was physically close to her and he had thought she loved him as a man. That daydream didn't seem so impossible now.

"Just promise me something."

She lifted her sad blue eyes to his. His heart constricted in pity and love for the Tenebraean.

"Don't fake your feelings for me. Tell me if I'm crossing the line. I want you to accept me as I am, not as some warped reflection of Nyx Ulric."

Tears spilled from her eyes, her nostrils flared and her lips quivered as she whispered: "I promise."

He opened his arms to her in an invitation. Without hesitation she dropped her priceless trident and rushed into his arms, burying her teary cheek into the crook of his neck. He stroked her back in what he hoped to be a soothing manner. He said nothing even as her tears soaked his uniform's collar. They stayed still and listened to each other's ragged breathing and her occasional muffled sob. It felt so good to hold her in his arms again. It was as if a vital missing piece of him had been returned.

Carefully he pulled back. She was still wearing her Oracle's dress. He didn't want to attract unnecessary attention. If someone saw him in his "Stupeo" outfit, they could put two and two together and wag their tongues to the tabloids about his true identity.

"C'mon. Let's go home." He picked his discarded trophy and mask while she picked up her trident. As he set off towards their suite, he felt her delicate hand take hold of his free hand. He interlaced his fingers with hers and gave her a reassuring squeeze. They walked rest of the way hand-in-hand.

Noctis kicked off his boots and tossed his goggles and mask on the vanity table. He had left the trophy in the sitting room when Luna had insisted he put it on display. She had even made room for it within a glass vitrine. As much as he had enjoyed being someone else other than Crown Prince of Lucis for a day, he was glad he could shed his disguise and be himself again. He stripped himself from the uniform and folded it before putting it away. He doubted he would need it for a while.

Luna removed her bolero and placed her trident to lean against the wall. Her bruises had mostly healed, but they were still faintly visible. Guilt twisted his stomach into a knot. He walked to her and tenderly caressed her bicep with his knuckles. "Does it hurt?"

"No. Just a little bruising, it's nothing serious. Really."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be." She moved to go behind the screen, but he took hold of her forearm and pulled her to a gentle embrace.

"I tried to apologize to you", he mumbled into her hair. "So many times. But then I gave up. I shouldn't have given up."

"It's alright, Noct. I never blamed you. I was sad I made you go through all that pain alone. I wanted to be there for you, but I didn't know how to approach you. I was afraid I would chase you away."

"Not getting rid of me that easy."

He could feel her smile against his cheek. She pulled away and went to change behind the screen. Once they were both in bed, he tentatively crawled closer to her. They had spent each night for the past week as far apart as the bed allowed. He didn't want to invade her personal space and make her uncomfortable, but at the same time his body missed hers badly. He made sure not to let any body part of his touch her while simultaneously lying as close to her as possible.

Her eyes glinted in the city's night lights. He wasn't sure if he was imagining the humorous twitch of her lips and crinkle of her eyes. She crawled forward and placed her hands to rest against his chest.

"Hope you don't mind. It's a little cold in here."

"Yes. I mean, not at all!" He wrapped his arm around her shoulder. They silently studied each other in the faint light of the moon and stars. Curiously she hadn't closed the curtains like she usually did. Maybe she was ensuring he would wake up with her the next morning. He wouldn't mind that in the slightest. Reaper knew his sleeping rhythm was all over the place thanks to his excessive drinking and daemon slaying in the middle of the night.

Luna stirred and leaned up to place a soft kiss on his cheek.

"Goodnight, Noct."

Warmth spread to every part of his being from where her lips had touched his skin.

"Sweet dreams", he bid her and gave her nose a delicate caress with his before closing his eyes and letting sleep take him.

The remaining week of their honeymoon was spent patching their relationship and testing Luna's comfort zone's limits. She remained hesitant towards public shows of affection, so he toned it down accordingly to a minimum. He had made a mental list of do's and don'ts.

He was allowed, encouraged even, to offer her his arm when they walked together whereas handholding was a no-no. He was allowed to kiss her cheek even outdoors as long as the coast was clear of people and potential cameras. He was allowed to hold her while they napped or slept, but if his hand wandered underneath her blouse, she would slap it away followed by a humorous glare. "Not yet", she would whisper to him. Not yet, but soon. He held on to that promise.

He had come up with a fool-proof plan for situations when he found her unspoken rules too difficult to follow and was in desperate need to touch her. On one such occasion he had beckoned her to sit on a pillow in front of the couch where he sat. With a mildly amused smile she had sat down to humour him. Tenderly he had pulled down her dress' straps and massaged her tense shoulders and neck. At first she had protested, her heart pounding in panic from the unexpected intimacy, but as soon as his hands began to work through the tightened muscles, she quieted down. Her head had lazily lolled forward. He had felt a little warm under his collar when he heard her hum or groan in pleasure and relief. After the massage he had rewarded his restraint by kissing her bare shoulders. She hadn't protested. Instead her head had lolled back to rest in his lap, her eyes hazily gazing up at his followed by a breathy 'thank you'. That look alone was so worth it.

From then on whenever he placed a pillow in front of the couch, her eyes would light up and she would hurry to receive his attention.

Unfortunately he hadn't been allowed to enjoy a similar treatment. Luna attempted to give him a back massage, but he had been quick to jump off the bed and waving her concerned questions off. It reminded him of his stay in Galdin Quay when Prompto had suggested he try the local massagers. Somehow he had expected it to turn out differently with his wife. He had sulked for a good time, until Luna had led him back to bed and ordered him to stay put. He had squeezed his eyes shut and braced himself for intense pain. Instead he felt the bed's mattress dip under her weight as she climbed to straddle him. Her hands lightly stroked and rubbed his bare back followed by an occasional teasing tickle. It was the most pleasant 'massage' he recalled receiving.

He hadn't completely given up, however. If Luna could fall in love with him after their month's ordeal, he was certain he could learn to enjoy a real proper massage.

Within a year or two.

Maybe ten.

Maybe.

Slowly she allowed him to do more to show his love and adoration. She even surprised him with a shy caress or a chaste kiss.

Noctis sat at Luna's desk and wrote a letter to his father to let him know of his and Luna's plan to move to Insomnia instead of Tenebrae. He sensed something sneak behind him, but he feigned ignorance and kept writing. After several minutes of nothing happening, he began to suspect his imagination was playing tricks on him. He turned his head to check behind him, only to come face-to-face with his wife. She pecked him square on the lips and ran off giggling. He sat in stunned silence for five seconds before a goofy grin tugged his lips upwards. He warped after her. His hands caught only thin air as she disappeared behind a corner in a flurry of white skirts.

"Just you wait!" he called after her. He warped ahead of her and blocked her way. With a mischievous grin she turned tail and dashed to the dining room, Noctis hot on her heels. Servants yelped in surprise when the royal couple raced past them, all sense of dignity and regality thrown out of the window. Noctis left several blue phantoms in his wake as he warped to avoid bumping into the members of the household.

Strands of Luna's hair fell from her braids and ponytail as she evaded his groping arms. She disappeared behind the kitchen's double doors. He slowed down and took his time to follow. There was no other exit from the kitchen. She was cornered. Instead of showing any signs of defeat or surrender, she playfully smiled at him from the other side of the room. The cook and rest of the kitchen staff glanced curiously at the couple, but mostly ignored them and continued their work.

Noctis folded his arms and raised a brow. She in turn placed her hands on her hips and grinned back at him. With a roll of his eyes he made his way past the busy staff members to reach her, but she cleverly moved to the other side, leaving the giant stove in between them. He moved the other way and she in turn mimicked him and moved to the opposite direction.

He didn't dare to warp incase he'd cause someone to drop whatever they were working on. Frowning, he watched her leave the kitchen with a coquettish toss of her ponytail. As the double doors swung after her, he warped to them and continued the chase.

Gentiana shook her head in amusement as the normally dignified Oracle dashed past her like the little girl she had been over a decade ago, Noctis not far behind her.

They approached the bedchamber. Luna slowed down as she contemplated between the balcony and the bathroom. She jogged towards the balcony, but Noctis materialized in front of her. She grinned wickedly as he fell to her ruse again and ran back to the bedroom door. She turned the handle, but Noctis had locked the door. Quickly unlocking it, she opened the door, but Noctis' hand slammed it shut. She turned to run towards the bathroom, but her husband's free arm blocked her way. She was trapped.

"Gotcha", Noctis huskily whispered. His armpits had sweat patches from the unexpected workout and his hair was ruffled from continuous warps. Luna's braids had come undone and messy blond locks fell to frame her flustered face. They both panted and grinned at each other in giddy glee.

"Seems like it", she agreed.

He nuzzled her face and dropped his hands from the door to cradle her head.

She crinkled her nose. "You're all sweaty."

"Psh, you love it." He smirked and buried his sweaty forehead in her neck.

"Noct!" she protested.

Playfully impersonating a dog, he exaggeratingly sniffed her neck, shoulders and face.

"Down, boy." She giggled and patted his raven bangs.

Umbra snorted in disapproval from the other side of the door. Both prince and Oracle laughed.

"Guess he thinks I'm threatening to overthrow him."

"Please don't. I don't want to be married to a dog."

"But you want to be married to me?" He gave his best impression on puppy eyes to her while secretly pleading her to fully accept him as a man.

The impish glint in her eyes dimmed as something warm – and dare he say, tender? – took over.

"Yes, Noct." Her hand found his left hand and fingered his wedding band hidden underneath his motorcycle glove. "I think, out of all the possible arranged marriages, this one was the best possible outcome."

"You really think so?" He rested his damp forehead against hers, noses lightly touching.

"I know so."

"Oh Shiva's frozen tits." Noctis heard Luna curse. The drink he had been enjoying went down the wrong way. With several violent coughs he managed to clear his lungs.

"Everything okay there, Noct?"

"Y-yeah! Just peachy!" he called back to her. They were staying in Galdin Quay for the night. Luna had left a message to Ravus letting him know she had left to join her husband's family. Gladiolus, Ignis and Prompto had come to escort the royal couple and Luna's servants all the way from Altissia to Insomnia. So far the trip had been relatively painless. Pleasant, even.

Noctis set his drink down and poked his head inside the bathroom. Luna was fumbling with scissors on her left hand and attempting to open a newly bought package containing a razor.

"Why do they insist on putting these things in hard plastic that can't be just ripped open?" she mumbled and set the scissors down with a huff before flexing her aching wrist.

"Need help?"

Luna spun around. She was wearing nothing more than a towel around her torso while another was wrapped in the shape of a turban around her long hair. His eyes briefly fell to ogle at her body before his gentleman's reflexes kicked in. He turned around and awkwardly cleared his throat.

"Yes, I do." He could hear the awkward waver in her tone as she extended the package and scissors to him. He kept his back towards her and opened the package with ease.

"Thank Leviathan. I should've asked Gentiana to have my scissors packed in my bag. Finding scissors made for lefties is like trying to find cacti in an ocean."

Noctis extended the opened package behind his back and remained where he was. "You could've just borrowed my razor. I wouldn't mind."

"Noct." Her tone was slightly patronizing. "Women don't use razors quite the same way as men."

The prince stuffed his hands in his pockets. He was glad she couldn't see the faint blush colouring his cheeks. "I know that! You shave your legs. No big deal."

There was an awkward pause.

"Among other places."

"Oh." Realization slowly dawned on him. "Oh."

"Now be a dear and leave so I can do my business in peace."

"I don't mind if you leave it unshaved–"

"Noct, get out!" She threw a sponge at his head, but he sensed the incoming attack and warped to safety before slamming the door shut.

Luna was reading a magazine when Noctis returned to their room from his friends' shared room. The four men had shared stories from the past month while engaging in a game of cards. He peeked over her shoulder to see what she was reading.

"Stupeo stupefies the audience with wacky aerobatics" he read out loud. "You're reading a sports magazine?"

"Couldn't help myself when I saw the cover", she showed him the cover which included a fancy photo of Noctis in his modified uniform doing a flip midair with his Engine Blade drawn out. "I think Prompto could take tips from the photographer."

"Not bad", he settled sat next to her.

"Think I'll take this with me as a souvenir. Afraid I didn't get the chance to snap any photos myself."

"Better that way. You got to see the whole fight seamlessly without playing around with lenses and angles."

"Just so. I wouldn't mind if I could unsee you hanging from a malboro's tentacle, though."

Noctis leaned his folded arms on the table and faced the other way to hide his embarrassment.

"Had to keep them at the edges of their seats", he mumbled. "Quality entertainment."

"Uh-huh." She rolled the magazine and put it in her bag. "If you can help it, please try not to repeat it." Her suddenly mirthless tone made him turn back towards her. "My heart was up in my throat at that point", she admitted.

"You were really worried, huh."

"Understatement of the year", she snorted. "I was this close to jumping over the fence and coming to poke the malboro with my trident."

"Wouldn't that been a sight."

"I'm serious! Don't pull a stunt like that ever again."

A heartfelt smile adorned his youthful face. "Wouldn't even dream of it. Not with a feisty missus like you to keep me in line."

"Noct."

"Yup?"

"Hush."

She stood up and placed her hands on his knees. Butterflies fluttered in Noctis' stomach as she slowly leaned forward. He followed suite. It was as if his head was pulled forward by an invisible force. Soft lips pressed against his. It felt like Ramuh had struck him with Judgment Bolt as electricity coursed through him. Her warm lips caressed his with slow sensual movements. Hesitantly he allowed his tongue to lightly trail over her lips, faintly tasting the flavor of the ice-cream dessert she had enjoyed a few hours back.

They parted for air, faces lingering mere inches away from each other. Her hot breath caressed his tingling skin.

"So." He planted a tiny kiss on her parted lips. "Did it feel like kissing Ravus?"

"No." His heart skipped a beat as her blond lashes fluttered open to reveal her dazed cerulean gaze. Her pupils were dilated with desire. "I could do with another."

Not able to control himself, he obeyed her request so fast he knocked them both from their seats.

Oh Reaper, he cursed in his mind and let his forehead fall heavily against the floor with a thud, his bangs hiding his burning face. A muffled giggle perked his mood. He lifted his head to look at his wife who was sprawled underneath him. Her eyes were crinkled with contained mirth and her long blond locks spilled over the hard surface.

Her hands pulled his face to hers and rewarded him with several small kisses across his jaw and lips.

A knock on the door interrupted them.

"What're you doing?"

"I heard a loud thump. Thought I'd check if Noct needed an ether or something."

"He's there with Lunafreya. I think you know exactly what's happening."

Noctis could imagine the freckled blond's guilty grin. "Busted."

With an annoyed groan Noctis rolled off his wife and helped her up. "Piss off, you guys", he called.

He heard the blond man yelp and hurry off when Noctis stomped with purpose towards the door. By the time he opened it, Gladiolus had fled the scene as well. He slammed the door shut and locked it for good measure.

Luna sat at the edge of the bed, her head tilted coyly as she peered at him underneath her blond lashes. "You wouldn't happen to carry that wedding gift with you, would you?"

Noctis swallowed audibly.

"Afraid I left it in the car along with my coat."

She gracefully lied back. Her messy hair and wrinkled clothes made her appear all the more desirable. "Guess you'll have to wait until we get to Insomnia then."

He kicked off his boots and climbed to bed beside her. "I can think of a thing or two we can do in the meantime."

A/N: 'eyy. Another surprise update! I won't make promises of this being the last one, since I already broke the vow in the last chapter's author's notes.

Not sure where this chapter came from, I just felt the need to see Noctis' side on the fight and how he coped and how they had several misunderstandings and miscommunications. Plus it gave me a chance to write some filler fluff between chapter 4 and 5. I need more fluff in my life.

I should get FFXV tomorrow or the day after. Can't wait! Stay safe from spoilers, guys!