Pt. 2
Tossing and turning, Adryn awoke soaked in sweat. This was extremely rare as he never really slept. He had apparently passed out on his office floor in the palace.
Now, while this occurrence was not unheard of for Ardyn but it did cause confusion as to why at this exact moment. The former healer and Chancellor of Niflheim was accustomed to pushing his immortal body to its limits, testing the boundaries of his sanity while working on his revenge. Anger, regret, and sadness roiled through his body as the starscourage burned in his veins as a reminder of the Astral's betrayal. His body shuddered as he slapped both cheeks and pushed his arms underneath his torso. The multitude of layers over his body rustled as he got up from the floor. Papers were scattered everywhere. If he remembered correctly, he was overlooking the latest MT developments from Verstael.
Adryn huffed as he groaned and leaned over the Mahagony wood desk. He could not recall the last 24 hours, which isn't necessarily alarming, but something was nagging the immortal at the back of his mind. He rubbed a hand over his face and saw some of the starscourage dark black ooze come away on his fingers. Why was he bleeding?
A knock at the door disturbed his thoughts. "Come in." Adryn called.
The sound of heavy army creaking followed as the High Commander of the Imperial Army stepped through the door. "Is this a bad time?" Ravus asked.
Shaking his head, Adryn turned to the commander. "It doesn't matter. What is it?"
"The War Council started fifteen minutes ago. Your presence is required." Ravus huffed. "I will delay the others." The former Tenebraen prince turned on his heel as he left the office.
Grumbling, Adryn turned to the scattered papers that had landed on his desk. Wiping the black ooze on a random part of his coat, the Chancellor gathered what seemed to be the latest gunslinger model of MTs. Gathering a notebook and pen, he set off to the War Council room. It wasn't the first time he showed up a mess and probably wouldn't be the last.
What the immortal failed to notice was the glowing purple orb that had floated away from his body. The orb floated out the open door behind Adryn and sped down the hallway out an open window.
It was bright. Too damn bright. The sun is fucking outside the window bright. Prompto groaned as he started to awaken. His head throbbed and it felt extra warm and sticky. The blond shifted as he tried to move his arms, finding one was locked underneath a thin waist. Slowly, blue eyes adjusted to the blinding light to find a head full of silky navy blue hair.
"Huh?" Prompto said aloud, confused. It took a few moments for sleep to fall away. Then at the back of his mindspace he felt something gently poke him as a reminder. Prompto closed his eyes again in concentration. Oh, yeah. He magically bonded with Noctis.
The bond poked him again just make sure Prompto was awake and aware of its presence. It sent an energy that felt like "Hey, I'm here and content. Your bond-mate is still sleeping." For Prompto's sanity sake, he imagined the bond to be a baby chocobo or else he'll keep being weirded out by the yellowish/blue energy floating behind his eyelids every time he blinks.
Now that his bond was satisfied, it retreated to its part of the mindspace, leaving Prompto alone to feel the position he was in with Noctis. The blond inhaled Noctis' scent of cool mountain air and fresh linen. It was a strange combination Prompto had only been vaguely aware of. His senses were feeling Noctis twice again; he feels his prince's body, warm and flushed against his and once more as the cool presence at the back of his mind. It was weird and comforting at the same time.
Their legs were entwined, and Noctis' head was lying on Prompto's chest with Prompto's back against the cushions. Prompto's other arm was wrapped around Noctis' upper back. The blond was still sleepy but the bright morning light and his grumbling stomach made it hard to fall back asleep. Noctis began to stir when he was thinking about waking the other.
Noctis groaned annoyed. He could feel a warm gentle presence. It slowly creeped through his mindscape curious. It was dark and foreboding like the crystal's energy. After a few minutes, it actively started invading his mindspace. Once traveled from the back corner of his mind to the forefront, it poked him awake insistently. What was it? Who was it? Go away. The prince received the answer of "I'm your new bond. Your bond-mate is awake and hungry. Move it!" in a form of irritated buzzing yellowish/blue energy.
"Nggh." Noctis nuzzled into the warm chest he felt. He didn't want to get up but the poking was persistent in his mindspace, causing a small headache. He slowly grew aware he was on Prompto and their bond was telling him to wake up. "Prom?"
"Yeah…" Prompto jolted a bit, having been on his way back to dreamland. "Noct?"
Noctis took a moment to form a coherent sentence. "Are you hungry?"
Prompto's eyes widen although Noctis couldn't see it. "How did you know?"
"The bond." Noctis yawned, finally awake. "It kept poking me."
"You too?" Prompto stated in wonder. "I guess—it wasn't that important." He felt guilty he woke up his friend—bond-mate.
"Nonsense." Noctis began to untangle himself from Prompto's soft limbs. "We can't hide anything from each other, remember?" He gave a tired smirk. "We didn't eat dinner yesterday either." Noctis slid off the couch, aching limbs protesting at moving. "Come. Let's eat something and sleep again."
Prompto felt the loss of heat once Noctis moved away. He stretched languidly and sat up against the back of the couch. "Don't you always have something to do? What time is it anyway?"
Noctis grimaced at the microwave's clock in the kitchen. "Ugh, 7AM. This is unholy." He stretched his arms over his head as he walked over to the forgotten food on the dining table. "If I do have something today, it can wait. I'll use the excuse of the crystal draining extra power from me. I am magically exhausted—as you should be too—so Iggy could tell my father that as an excuse."
"Hmm." Prompto stood up ruffling his hair. "I'm not arguing about more sleep." His body felt like he ran a 5K marathon twice in one day.
Noctis grunted as he put one plate in the microwave. "The tutors always said a drain would happen, but no one said I'd feel like I gotten ran over by a truck."
"I feel like I ran a marathon." Prompto chuckled. "You sure we did everything, right?"
"Yes." Noctis said, leaning a hip into the counter. "I know that we must stay touchy-feely in the beginning and then gradually we can be further apart."
The microwave beeped annoyingly. Noctis took out the plate and handed it to Prompto. "For my hungry bond-mate." The prince smirked as he put the second plate inside.
"Gee, thanks." Prompto mocked as his nose took in the fried rice from yesterday. The runner's stomach grumbled loudly. "Don't mind if I eat my own cooking."
Another annoying beep. "We can order some more food, if you want." Noctis' stomach growled in agreement as he took out the plate from the microwave. "We could even get you a salad." He said the latter with much disdain.
Chewing furiously, Prompto nodded his head in agreement. "I am hella hungry and this will not fill us up. The Galahdian place down the street?"
"Totally." Noctis took the first bite into his plate. The buttery rice filled his mouth. Prompto substituted the peas and carrots for just onions and eggs. There was a reason why he loved this man.
A reddish hue came across Prompto's face as he meeped. "Did you just–?"
"Oh." Noctis swallowed his mouthful. "New bond. Can't really hide feelings. Um, still doesn't change how I feel." He ruffled the hair on the back of his neck, blushing.
Prompto playfully hit Noctis' arm and smiled. "Dammit. This is going to be embarrassing isn't it?"
Eating more rice and looking down, Noctis said. "Yep," popping the p at the end.
[1 week later]
The bell sounded for lunch and Prompto couldn't wait to leave his classroom. Today the wailing voice of his bond kept pleading with him constantly during class, sensing its other half close by. He just wanted to see Noctis and calm their bond down so he could think straight. Apparently newly bonded mates shouldn't stray too far from one another in the early stage; however, Prompto and Noctis have separated due to classes and princely duties.
The two had to be separated the last week because of Noctis' duties as Prince. The Ambassador of Accordo had visited Insomnia for business. During the week, Prompto had yet to see Noctis in or outside of school and the prince returned to his highrise apartment yesterday. It would cause too much suspicion if Noctis suddenly asked his security detail for Prompto to move in. Sleeping away from each other was hell the first few days. Prompto's head had hurt so much that he couldn't attend school Monday through Wednesday and the same for Noctis, though he had much more practice in blocking out mental pain.
After slugging through most of the school day, the pair were together on Thursday. There were many kisses and hugs shared between the two in the Prince's bedroom. Prompto ended up spending the night and they went to school together on Friday morning.
Unfortunately, Noctis had to be at the palace for the weekend. Some nobility party that he couldn't get out of attending forced Prompto back to his own apartment. Once the blond was in his apartment, the bond had quietly wept before reaching ear splitting wails. It had knocked Prompto unconscious in the morning before he could attend school for their half-day. It was some time in the late evening when he found himself on the floor of his living room. By repeating a mantra, he had learned to mute the voice some to function though not by much.
And from the palace Noctis had done his best to send strong emotions of warmth, comfort, and love through their special wavelength but nothing would satisfy their young bond. He was distracted—well he was always distracted—during the meetings with the Council of Royals and the nobility that were arriving for the ball being hosted. Since he constantly heard the wailing of their bond, he wore a pained grimace and constantly winced if someone spoke too loudly towards him. His father, King Regis, had asked if he was alright often and Noctis could only tell him the crystal was speaking to him a lot.
On Monday, it was with great relief Prompto had practically broken the rooftop door to meet his bond-mate on the other side. They embraced each other as if they had not seen each other in years. Their bond instantly stopped its wailing, sighing in happiness and relief. They could feel the thrum through each other back and forth, creating an electric current.
Noctis kissed the side of Prompto's neck and face. "I'm so sorry. I didn't know it would be this intense." He whispered.
Prompto returned the gestures in kind, kissing and wrapping his arms tightly against Noctis. "It wouldn't stop crying. By the Six how can this thing cry, Noctis?"
"I don't know." Noctis cupped Prompto's flushed cheeks. "There's still things I need to learn about bonds I suppose. No one ever mentioned it having a mind of its own." He nuzzled Prompto's face. "Forgive me? Please?"
Prompto's heart stuttered and he let out a breathy laugh. "I didn't think to be mad." The blond kissed Noctis' cheek. "But what will we do? How long will this last? We'll go into a coma at this rate."
"The bond cannot hurt us that deeply rest assured." Noctis sighed. "I'll have to sneak away if duties get in the way again. At least for a few hours. I could barely concentrate on walking let alone listening to boring politics."
"It's not good for you to skip, Your Highness." Prompto teased. "But maybe we should just skip the rest of the day? My head is throbbing, and I couldn't concentrate on the lessons anyway."
"Feign sickness?" Noctis asked.
"Yup. Food poisoning." Prompto nodded. The two left the rooftop, holding hands as they made their way to the school nurse.
[1 month later: Wednesday Afternoon]
Ignis could officially state he was distraught. It was normal for the prince to be weakened by the crystal. It came with the territory of being a royal. Noctis was a sickly child before and after the daemon attack. When he got older and slightly healthier, the crystal took his strength. Noctis was constantly fatigued which was why he slept so much. It did trouble Ignis how much the prince was sleeping and getting sick lately. He's had constant calls from the school that the prince could only attend half the day and when he visits after said calls, the prince is sleeping on the couch with his best friend Prompto.
At first, Ignis thought the boys were playing hooky as both got sick the exact same day and had the exact same symptoms. What changed his mind for both boys would be pale in complexion and lightly sweating when Ignis visited. It seemed they would be running a low fever and the young advisor had to force them to wake up to eat and drink something. This had been going on and off for the past few weeks and Ignis had decided he'd had enough of food poisoning, flu, and crystal draining excuses. He was a Scientia and by the Six something else was going on.
It was Wednesday afternoon and Ignis had got another call about the prince's illness. Noctis had been alone this time however and seemed all the paler for it. He had driven the prince to the Citadel and was awaiting the Royal Apothecary's diagnosis. Ignis was tapping his foot impatiently as the old apothecary checked the prince over with her healing magic. They were in a private room in the Hospital Wing of the palace.
The old apothecary, long hair white with age and wisdom, hummed as she lifted her hands off Noctis. "I'm afraid Duke Scientia that the Prince has symptoms of bond-tearing."
"Bond-tearing?" Ignis' eyebrows raised to his hairline. "The prince has no magic bond yet."
"Really?" The apothecary hummed some more. "While it's possible I could be diagnosing incorrectly, I am sure these are symptoms of bond-tearing although not forceful bond-tearing." She stepped around Noctis' bed, the prince unconscious, to reach a shelf behind her desk. She pulled out a dark turquoise book with Bahamut's swords on the front crossed over in gold embroidery. She opened and turn a few pages before walking back to Ignis. "Look here Duke Scientia. There are many symptoms for bond-tearing as each bond is different for each pair. Nonetheless, Noctis has the most common: paleness, fever sweat and chills, labored breathing, magic running wild beneath skin, and upset stomach. These are also common symptoms of the flu of course, but I can find no infection of any kind. He has no other ailment I can deduct from curses to magic corruption. We could ask for a second opinion, if you prefer?"
Ignis lifted the book carefully from her hands. He read the overview of the page and thought for a moment. It came to him that Noctis wasn't the only one with these symptoms. He then quietly gasped. The advisor kept reading to the next page where it began to explain basic bond dynamics. "If…say if someone had created a bond recently, and they haven't constantly been around each other like they are supposed to, would that create bond-tears?"
"Yes." The old doctor confidently answered. "It's very dangerous for the bond-pair to separate in the beginning stages. A common period for the early bonding stage is 3 months-1 year though some can be less or more time, depending on the pair. If the pair is not constantly within a certain range of each other before the bond can completely solidify it causes the pair to become physically ill. While the created bond has already tethered their mind together, to completely merge all energies from both parties takes longer."
The book snapped shut and Ignis had a new mission in mind. "Could you keep this a secret for the time being?"
"I'm sorry?" The apothecary raised her eyebrows in confusion.
"King Regis already knows about Noctis' illness," Ignis started as he gathered his coat and briefcase. "but before this diagnosis is released I would like to prove a theory first. May I borrow this book?"
"Why, yes go ahead." The apothecary agreed as Ignis hurried out the door. "Whatever the theory, please hurry. The prince needs his bond-mate here if I am indeed correct." She called out.
Prompto groaned as he turned over in his twin-sized bed. He was unbearably hot and cold at the same time. His white bed sheets were soaked with sweat, and he wondered if the world was supposed to keep spinning when his eyes were closed.
Noctis and he had been ill the last few weeks, not feigned at all. It started with chills then a headache turning into a migraine. Then his stomach would be upset at the littlest of food. All Prompto usually ate was salad with some chicken or some type of fish. It was unusual that everything caused his stomach to churn. Then he could barely eat crackers without it bubbling back to the surface of his mouth. Liquids were the only thing that seemed to stay down. He hadn't been able to go for his morning jogs as his fatigue kept his body aching no matter how much he slept. He slept most of his day away and he heard so had Noctis.
Noctis slept more than anyone because of the magic drain on his system. With their bond, it seemed he was only awake a few hours of the day to communicate. He and Prompto had taken to napping together after school and when Noctis had business away at the palace, the prince would sneak out to Prompto's apartment for a brief cuddle before returning to the Citadel. Today, Prompto didn't feel well at all and had forgone going to school in general. Both of their grades had slipped a bit since the two had been sleeping more than studying but they couldn't help it.
The blond had felt guilty, sending a wave of apologetic energy through their bond in the morning. He couldn't move from his bed and he was afraid the little water he had beside him wasn't enough to keep him hydrated. It was only a few hours later that he felt an ice-cold chill down his spine, signaling Noctis wasn't well either. The prince was supposed to share his research with Prompto today about their bond since they couldn't figure out what was wrong.
The bond hadn't wailed for contact since their first catastrophic week but it hadn't been too happy either. It would writhe in pain and sadness when they parted and now it was three colors: a yellow clash with green and blue. Prompto finally figured out it was their energies combined. This new green color forming was probably their energy merging more than before Noctis had guessed.
Prompto vaguely shuddered as he thought he heard banging on his front door. No one should know where he lived except Noctis, Ignis, and Gladiolus. The latter two only visited because of Noctis. Was it time for the social worker to visit? The blond went unconscious again before he could decide if it was an illusion or not.
In the Regalia, Ignis had called the school to see if Prompto was in class. The school said that Prompto had not shown up today and that maybe he should send someone for their missed work. Ignis had called an attendant to do just that as he continued driving to Prompto's neighborhood. The inner noble shied away from the dilapidated buildings and rotten fences. Dirty stray dogs and cats were seen scavenging in piles of trash on the streets. A few homeless people were also living in cardboard boxes despite the capital's public welfare system keeping most people sheltered and fed. Pools of random discolored water came from drains or filled potholes in the ground. It was a dark and dreary sight that Ignis hated to face.
Once he reached the blond's familiar residence, Ignis vowed he would get the younger out of this dump. If his theory proved correct, the blond would be moving in with the prince anyway.
Ignis was a man of nobility and chivalry. Oh, how his ancestors would be appalled at actions he was about to perform. He prayed for forgiveness, knowing he was about to commit property damage. His prince came first, however. When the young blond did not come to answer his door, Ignis thought maybe he was not home. Remembering the bond-tearing symptoms, he steeled himself to break open the door. Poor Prompto could not possibly move if he was in the same condition as the prince. Glancing around to make sure no one was looking, Ignis twisted the handle of the door as he shoved his shoulder, using his body weight. The door protested but did not budge. He did it four times before the door gave way and Ignis was let into the cramped living room area. Ducking down into the doorway, Ignis saw a hallway beside the kitchen leading to a back door. The lights were flickering as he walked down the hallway.
Once in front of the plain wooden door, Ignis knocked and still received no answer. He cautiously twisted the door knob and found it to be unlocked. The advisor breathed a sigh of relief at not having to break another door.
Prompto's pitiful figure greeted Ignis. The blond's red comforter was thrown on the floor. Prompto wore nothing but black boxers and a dark green tank top. He was sweating profusely, having soaked through the sheets and pillows thoroughly, wheezing. Ignis clucked his tongue in annoyance. If only he had brought the prince to the apothecary sooner, neither one of the boys would be in this position.
He went over to kneel next to Prompto's head. He wiped back the plastered bangs from Prompto's forehead, feeling extreme heat. "Prompto." Ignis called while gently slapping the other's cheek. "I need to get you to Noctis. Prompto!"
Prompto whined in agony, turning into Ignis' cold hands. "Make it stop." He whimpered.
Seeing the other was completely out of it, Ignis put his arms underneath Prompto to carry him to the car. Luckily he had foreseen the other being unconscious and left the passenger door open. If Ignis were honest, hearing that pained voice hurt him in a way he could not understand. Once he carefully fit Prompto between both doors of the apartment, he walked to the car and laid the blond gently in the passenger seat. Ignis let the seat back so that it was all the way down and strapped Prompto in with the seat belt. He went back inside, locking Prompto's bedroom door at least. He could replace anything within the apartment except for things that had sentimental value. Rushing back outside, the advisor hopped in the driver's seat and quickly sped off.
He parked the Regalia the best he could in his panic. Carefully getting Prompto out the front seat, Ignis lifted him in his arms bridal style and began running. "Move out of my way!" Ignis yelled at the Kingsglaive as they heeded the advisor's words. Many palace servants recognized the unconscious person as Prompto—the prince's commoner friend. They wondered why Duke Scientia was carrying him.
Ignis ignored everyone as he made his way to the Hospital Wing. He jogged to the back where the royal sick rooms were. Kicking the doors open, Ignis quickly set Prompto beside Noctis and heaved with effort. Instantly, the effect of being near each other could be seen. Both boys' color returned somewhat though they were still pale as the marble on the floor. Their labored breathing had stopped and gradually so did the sweating.
"Duke Scientia?" the old apothecary had come to see what the fuss was about. She saw Ignis run to the room they had placed Noctis in with a person. "What's going on?"
Ignis continued to catch his breath over his bended knees for a moment before answering, "Testing my theory." He stands up, pushing his glasses back in alignment. "I am correct it seems. Madam Solaris, this boy is the prince's bond-mate and friend. We must keep this a secret until I can speak with the Prince and King Regis, understood?"
"Why of course!" Madam Solaris agreed. "I'll keep the other healers quiet and I'll check on their condition."
[The next day]
His mindspace was a furnace. With each passing second it grew hotter and hotter as if he was on fire physically. His bond was flailing in anguish and Noctis longed for the presence of his bond-mate. He thinks he made it to second period Chemistry before he fainted. He had hoped to see Prompto during lunch and the classes after but the blond couldn't make it to school. After fainting, everything was dark and burning for a very long time. It felt like an eternity before his bond started to untwist itself and calm down. He felt a cool wave of relief wash over him.
Quite some time passed before Noctis started to awaken. He couldn't see tell what time it was. Everything was too bright to distinguish anything that he brought a hand up to cover his eyes. It shook with effort but when his eyes adjusted to his hand's shadow, he could make out bright green fluorescent lights. His mind was still confused until he turned his head to the left.
"Prompto." Noctis croaked. The prince cupped the blond's face. Prompto was on his side facing Noctis, looking pale as the sheets on the hospital bed. He was wearing a tank top and boxers, like Noctis' black tee and boxers. Despite his worry, Prompto was breathing softly and was lying on his left shoulder. Noctis forced his arms and body to cooperate as he turned over to cage Prompto to his chest. He didn't know what happened for Prompto to get here but one thing was clear. They couldn't keep being apart like this.
Noctis jolted when the door to his hospital room opened. Ignis walked in, looking exhausted like he had stayed up all night. His usually immaculate dress shirt had lost the matching tie, and a few buttons were undone. His short light ash brown hair was kept back by a black headband. He had a large mug of his favorite Ebony coffee Noctis assumed. "Iggy?"
Ignis looked up as he closed the door. "Noctis? You're awake finally." The advisor hurried over to the prince and set his mug on the nightstand table. He bent down to feel Noctis' forehead, feeling a normal temperature. "Do you mind explaining what's going on with you and Prompto?"
Noctis winced at the accusation in Ignis' voice. He hid his face in Prompto's hair for a second before he answered, "I've bonded with Prompto."
Ignis pulled the small stool he was sitting on earlier closer to the bed. "I gathered that from Madam Solaris' diagnosis. When?"
"Over a month ago." Noctis sighed. "I didn't mean to lie to you Iggy. It's just that—I wanted Prompto to have time for himself before he had to become Crownsguard. We had to keep it a secret."
Ignis sighed deeply. He ran an agitated hand through his hair; he could never stay mad at his prince for long. "This could have ended a lot worse Noctis. You could have at least told me and Gladio." Speaking of the shield, Ignis had to call him again now that Noctis had awoken. Seeing Noctis' downcast eyes he added, "I'm disappointed but why can you not understand I prioritize your safety? And you jeopardized Prompto's as well."
"I know Iggy." Noctis reached out one hand to capture Ignis'. "I didn't mean for this to happen. I thought I had all the information on magic bonds from my lessons. I didn't mean to cause us pain." Noctis rubbed his thumb over Ignis' knuckles. "I have to speak to you and Gladio properly when I get out the hospital. Does anyone else know besides you and the apothecary?"
Shaking his head, Ignis squeezed Noctis' hand. "No but King Regis will want some answers soon. I told him you exhausted your magic and Prompto was caught in a spell. I know he did not believe me but left it. Gladio knows something is wrong too."
Noctis nodded. It's the most he could expect from Prompto and him passing out with fever. "I promise I'll explain to all three of you in private." He hugged the slumbering blond closer to himself with his other arm. "So what happened to us?"
Ignis picked up the health-book lying on the nightstand with his coffee mug. "You and Prompto have been out for a day. I had suspicions something was going on with you but could never name what. Madam Solaris described you had symptoms of "bond-tearing" and showed me the section on magic bonds. I realized after a few minutes of reading Prompto had the same symptoms." Ignis winced, remembering he had not fixed Prompto's door. "I had to break into Prompto's apartment to get him here. He was unconscious and burning up as much as you. Once I put you two together, everything stopped. Madam Solaris had been monitoring your life signs and they are steadily getting better. We need to get you two cleaned up and fed eventually though."
Noctis nodded, taking all the information in. "So, because we were a part we got ill? I tried my best to be with him an hour every day despite my schedule."
Ignis shook his head. "That is not good enough. Every bond-pair is different but you two should have been in the same vicinity at least for 3 months straight according to this." He waved the book for emphasis. "Once you explain to King Regis, I will make arrangements for Prompto to move to your apartment."
"Dad is so gonna kill me." Noctis groaned.
"Well, gladly this did not." Ignis put the book back down. "I will research some more bonds for you once I know you are out of the danger zone."
"Thank you, Iggy." Noctis whispered. "I mean it."
"Anything for you." Ignis smiled softly.
Ignis quietly closed the door as he left Noctis and Prompto. Sometimes he swore his Prince lived to solely give him heart attacks. The Duke sighed as he left the infirmary for the night. Madam Solaris had already told the other medical staff, so he did not need to worry about secrets spilling just yet. He had to call Gladio and then report to King Regis.
Headed to his room, Ignis contemplated what this change meant for Noctis and Prompto as he rode the elevator to his floor. For the Prince to have bonded with Prompto was a sure sign he was serious about the blond being in his life. Granted, Ignis always thought Prompto was a decent and kind boy, albeit a bad influence when it came to schoolwork with Noctis. The Duke knew of the blond through Noctis and never really interacted with him outside that. Over the years, Prompto had proved his genuine affection for the Prince and no ulterior motives, which was all Ignis needed to know. Prompto was good for Noctis. He was the friend Ignis nor Gladio could never be because of duty first. If Prompto was now permanently in their lives, then Ignis had no qualms. Adjustments would have to be made to Prompto's life and theirs. The blond would have to get Crownsguard training from Cor or Gladio, and Prompto would have to know the rest of the inner royal circle. Plus…all the etiquette lessons and royal history Ignis knew he would become in charge of teaching to Prompto. Another sigh loosed from the advisor's chest. And Noctis had yet had the bond talk with him… He felt a sliver of jealousy but now was not the time to wallow.
The elevator dinged, signaling Ignis' arrival to Noctis' royal wing. He stepped out and nodded to a few Kingsglaive guarding the area. He stopped in front of his silver and black door encrusted with his house sigil, a golden book over red fire with two giant white snakes as guardians. Ignis stepped inside to his controlled chaos. The past few days of worrying over the prince, being hounded by Gladio and the King, plus performing his daily duties as an Advisor had left little personal time for Ignis. Thinking about the Prince and Prompto had set his mind into hyper-drive while it was already running on fumes. Pulling out his phone, Ignis called Gladio as he searched his closet for presentable clean clothes. Most of his outfits were on the floor or in the dirty linen hamper.
"Hello." A gruff voice drenched in sleep answered.
"Gladio, the Prince has awakened. He is fine now." Ignis sighed as he picked a simple black dress shirt and grey vest. It would do for now.
Sounding slightly more aware, Gladio asked. "So, what was all this about Iggy?"
Ignis huffed slightly as he redressed himself. It was 6AM and there was no time for sleep. "Noctis will tell us himself later today. After I report to King Regis, I know his majesty will call a private meeting."
"You sound annoyed." Gladio sleepily observed. It was two hours before he had to get up.
"Only slightly." Ignis affirmed as he finished getting dressed. "The danger has passed and that is what matters. Though I am afraid we will have new challenges."
[Noctis' bedroom]
It was in the afternoon that Noctis and Prompto had awoken. After Madam Solaris looked them over, they were deemed well enough to be out the infirmary but still strictly on bed rest. They had been escorted to his room not long after, gathering looks from servants, kingsglaives, and nobles. Ignis had stopped by Noctis's room, bringing a change of clothes for Prompto as well, and relayed that his father would like a private audience with him before dinner time. That left Noctis and Prompto three hours of free time. There was no way that he would leave Prompto out of this meeting.
The pair lied on Noctis' king-sized bed, staring at the ceiling. They had been in silence the past thirty minutes just contemplating life. Prompto's head was in the space between Noctis' head and shoulder. "Hey, Prompto."
"Yeah?" Prompto perked up at the sound of his voice.
"Am I selfish for wanting you by my side?" Noctis asked. Doubt crept into his veins and hugged him around his shoulders. Doubt was a familiar friend. He doubted every second he breathed and every time he moved. Constantly second-guessing his choices, whether about royal politics or how he interacted with his best friend. Ignis' words about putting Prompto and himself at risk echoed in his mind. Could he never have one thing for himself? He couldn't have his father's attention or a life of his own. He could never marry anyone of his choosing. He could never physically see and talk to Luna. He could never get close to anyone without royal approval. Why is it the simplest things normal people take for granted that he was barred from even considering them?
Prompto gasped as he flipped over to look Noctis in the face. "Dude, no." Thumping the Prince on his chest, the blond shook his head. "I know what you're thinking in that royal little head of yours. Even if it was selfish for you to ask, I was selfish enough to agree. We can both be selfish together. No one can blame you for wanting to stay by anyone's side!"
Noctis smiled at his friend's tantrum. "Oh really? And how do you know blondie?"
Prompto leaned in to nuzzle Noctis' nose. "Because anyone can easily say that if they've never been alone." He whispered. A moment of solemnness passed over them.
Noctis's pulled the blond's body completely over his, smirking. "I suppose an airhead can be right occasionally."
"Hey!" Prompto nipped Noctis' cheek. "Who are you calling airhead!" Their light laughter filled the room. Noctis supposed the coming hardship would be worth it to hear Prompto always laugh beside him.
[30 minutes before dinner]
King Regis sat in his favorite recliner with Clarus to his right. It was an old thing like him but comfortable. Its black upholstery was embroidered with silver thread; the Lucis Caelum crest of the dark skull and feathers displayed on the back. Regis waited patiently for his son to start his explanation. They were in his private sunroom. He already knew what Noctis and Prompto had. He could see it forming way before his son could even think about a magic bond. Clarus and him were the same in their youth.
Gladio, Ignis, Prompto, and Noctis sat on the black couch across from the King. Noctis was more nervous for Prompto. He knew his father would do nothing to him, nor could any old law he didn't know about could. However, Prompto was a commoner and laws applied differently to him. The King could order their bond to break once it's been revealed about the damage to Noctis' health. His father always worried about him because of the crystal's drain and his already poor health. The real worry came from the nobles. The Royal Council could charge Prompto with some sort of treason. As the leader of the Crownsguard Clarus could also charge Prompto.
The kind smile on Regis' face set some of Noctis' worries at ease. If no one else, his father's words would be final. If Noctis couldn't keep the bond with Prompto at least the blond would be safe from the nobles. "Hey, dad." Noctis started off awkwardly. His father and him had a mutual understanding that they loved each other but lack of interaction made it hard to communicate.
"Noctis, I'm glad to see you are feeling better." King Regis smiled wider and lightly chuckled. "Please try not give me and Ignis anymore heart attacks."
Noctis had enough shame to blush brightly. "I-I'm sorry. I didn't mean to cause any harm or worry."
"The danger has passed now." Regis picked up his chamomile tea and sipped, savoring the flavor. "Tell us what has happened."
Taking a deep breath, Noctis silently wished Clarus wasn't there. The older crownsguard could sometimes be quick to judge. Plus, Noctis had wanted a more private meeting with his father than this. "I…I made a magic bond with Prompto."
Since Ignis and Regis knew already their expressions remained passive, but Clarus and Gladio's quickly turned angry. "You what?" Gladio hissed. "When?"
"I second that statement." Clarus stated calmly. "Prince Noctis, do you realize the gravity of what you have done? You have bonded with a common boy."
Prompto flinched. He knew people weren't going to be happy. He was a commoner for Six's sake and they were royalty, but Clarus made it sound like he was the ultimate mistake Noctis had ever made. He wasn't special. He knew. He knew. But it hurt to hear someone reaffirm his insecurities aloud when only Noctis hasn't given a shit about him for a long time.
"Don't say that." Noctis growled and stood up. He could feel Prompto's miserable emotions through the bond. His best friend was looking at his feet and had a slight slouch to his form beside Noctis on the couch. The Prince wouldn't let Clarus get away with that statement. "He's Prompto Argentum, my best friend and partner!"
"Prince, please." Ignis stood up to calm his highness down, placing hands on Noctis' shoulders. "Remember your decorum."
Clarus straightened his back at the Prince's outburst. He replies with a steely edge, bordering on disrespect. "So you say, your highness. What merits does this boy have to offer you?"
"Sir Clarus—" Ignis tried to stop the fire rampaging.
"And what merits does he not have?" Noctis snarled over his advisor. "Just because he's a commoner doesn't mean he can't be useful. Most of the Kingsglaive are commoners and immigrants. Some of the Crownsguard too!"
"Those Kingsglaive have proven themselves worthy when they passed the King's magic trials." Clarus counters. "The Crownsguard has very few commoners for a reason. They must have a strong magic affinity."
"Why you—" Noctis started.
"Enough." King Regis' gentle voice cut through the tension like a sword. "Clarus that was unnecessary and rude. Sit down, everyone."
Noctis glared at Clarus as he retook his seat alongside Ignis and Prompto. The older crownsguard took a seat on the ottoman next to Regis.
"Prompto." King Regis addressed the blond directly. "Did Noctis explain all the consequences of bonding with him?"
Prompto flinched at the King's voice, expecting everyone to just ignore him like they've been doing. Looking up, he answered nervously. "Y-yes, Your Majesty. This is for life, and I will become part of the Crownsguard. There are many new things I must learn about magic and fighting."
"Very well." Regis said in acknowledgement and sipped his tea again. "Clarus, you cannot judge this boy for you do not know him. If Noctis has chosen to bond with him, knowing the gravity of forming and breaking a magic bond, then it is his choice. You did not favor when I bonded with Cid at first, did you not?"
Clarus crossed his arms. "I understand, Your Majesty. But even Cid had combat abilities and his knowledge of mechanics."
"He can learn!" Noctis snapped, tired of Clarus speaking about Prompto in that manner. "We all had to learn the basics of combat and magic at one point. I'm still learning. Prompto is strong and intelligent, especially good with technology. Not that you knew that!"
"I do not have a problem with this bond." Regis interrupted another argument stewing between his brother-in-arms and son. "Prompto has proven to be a great friend to you Noctis. He is always so kind and polite." Regis nodded at the pale-looking blond.
"However," Regis stared his son down in seriousness, wrinkles tightening around his mouth in a frown. "you should have come to me instead of performing the bond in secret. If Ignis had not figured out what ailed you with Madam Solaris, by the Six if this had turned out differently, I would have lost you both." Regis shook his head to clear his anger. "Even if Prompto and you had come to an understanding about being in a magic bond, you had yet learned everything nor did you consider how rapidly it would change both of your lives. As punishment, you and Prompto will come to live in the Citadel starting today. Prompto will start his lessons in combat, magic, and royal behavior after the bed rest period. Noctis you will help him learn by teaching him with Ignis and Gladiolus. Once you both finish the remainder of your schooling, Prompto will go through the Crownsguard trial and be inducted formally. The magic bond will remain a secret until after graduation."
"Dad—" Noctis protested.
"No Buts." King Regis stood up, leaving his empty teacup on the black coffee table. "These are my final words on the matter. I shall see you all for dinner." With a sweep of his elegant cape, the King makes his way out the sunroom with his cane; Crownsguard quickly came to their king's side following in line.
Clarus, Gladiolus, Ignis, Noctis, and Prompto stood up in silence. "My Prince." Clarus is the first to leave with a bow in Noctis' direction, leaving to catch up with Regis. For an old man walking with a cane Regis was fast.
Noctis shook with quiet anger.
Exploding in his own anger, Gladio stomped over in front of Noctis and grabbed the collar of his black shirt, lifting him from the floor. "How could you do something so reckless?"
"Please don't—" Prompto pleaded.
"Shut-up!" Gladio barked at Prompto. "Answer me Noct!"
"Gladio let him go now!" It was rare for Ignis to raise his voice. He was one of a quiet disposition even when distressed. "If this is his highness' decision then we should stand by it. There is no need to get angry over this."
"I regret nothing." Noctis's cool voice washed over them. The Prince stared into Gladio's angry face without hesitation. He didn't know where all this confidence came from today but who was he to question it. "It wasn't reckless or stupid despite what you may think. I could have handled the situation better, but I didn't, and I have paid for it."
Gladio growled, letting Noctis drop to the floor. "Waiting until it's too late is not how a future king handles things." With that the shield left the group, heading towards the dining hall.
Ignis sighed heavily. Emotions were high for everyone involved and the best he could do was damage control. If he felt a sliver of jealously earlier, he could only imagine what Gladiolus felt. "Highness, I will handle Gladio." Placing a hand on both Noctis and Prompto he gave them a small smile. "We will do the best we can these coming months. Prompto, welcome to the Citadel." The advisor follows Gladio out the door.
"Prom…I…" Noctis turned to Prompto. His bond-mate was lost in hysterical thoughts. "Prom! Snap out of it!" Their fledgling bond was a chaotic storm in their minds.
The blond was absolutely scared shitless. He was almost as pale as the hospital sheets they were lying on not long ago. He bit his bottom lip so hard that it turned white. Royalty and nobility were scary, and granted Regis and Noctis were not the typical royals but that didn't make him feel better. Nobility made up most of the court, right? If that was how Clarus felt, who's to say everybody else doesn't think worse? Was that how they felt all these years he's visited Noctis at the citadel? What did Ignis and Gladio think privately? Prompto could still feel Gladio's heated glare on his skin and he shivered. He knew it was going to get rough and this was only the beginning.
You aren't good enough!
You don't belong here foreigner!
Immigrant swine! Get out of my shop!
You fat pig! Go buy your own food!
How do expect to play with us when you're such a loser?
Haha the fat blond kid fell!
He's just a common boy.
Prompto hadn't realized he had fallen to his knees until Noctis' visage focused in front of him. "Prompto! Breathe!" The sunny blond had started hyperventilating. Gasping like a fish out of water, Prompto tried to focus on Noctis' frantic assurances of "Breathe!" until he could feel his lungs no longer burning and he could focus on Noct's hands on his shoulders.
The future crownsguardsman laughed weakly. "Sorry Noct. I think I got overwhelmed." Their magic bond stopped wailing in tandem with Prompto and smoothed to a medium-sized storm instead.
"That's alright." Noctis kissed Prompto's forehead tenderly. "Let's go to my room. There's no way we're having dinner like this."
Prompto frowned. "I'm sorry Noct. I didn't know my presence would cause such a stir."
"Shush, you." Noctis pulled the blond to his feet. Thankfully the Kingsglaive left them alone. "Since when has my Prompto not caused a stir?"
Prompto cracked a dry smile. "Since when has my Noctis been such a dork?" His bond fluttered at Noctis' possessive words.
Hitting his shoulder playfully, Noctis rebutted. "Says the one who throws peace signs in every selfie."
"Hey!" Prompto's indignant cries were cut off as Noctis stole a quick kiss. Prompto wasn't letting Noctis get away so easily. He pulled the Prince back for a second and third kiss.
"Oi," Noctis paused after the fourth kiss. "I'm actually hungry now you know."
"One more." Prompto said as he kissed Noctis more deeply. The bond sighed with happiness between them. Since they've shared hundreds of kisses by now, Prompto didn't feel ashamed to kiss Noctis in the slightly more public sunroom. The Kingsglaive were sworn to secrecy unless royal lives were in danger anyway.
Noctis hummed as they pulled a part. "We can order dinner to my room, okay?"
"Okay." Prompto nodded as the prince hooked arms with him. He could feel Noctis was worried and curious about his episode through the bond but chose to talk about it tomorrow. That was fine with Prompto. All the blond wanted to do now was eat and cuddle the night away.
[Ignis and Gladiolus]
"Gladio!" Ignis called the umpteenth time to the storming shield down the hallway. "Gladiolus Amicitia do not walk away from me!"
"What Iggy!" Gladio seethed to the Royal Advisor. "Is it wrong for me to be angry?!"
"No." Ignis stopped short of crashing into the shield. They were in the hallway by the Rose Garden. Ignis figured that none of them would show up to dinner with the King and the other nobles. Gladio had been so pissed off that he stomped his way to the other side of the Citadel in a matter of minutes, leaving Ignis just shy of running after him. "I merely ask you listen to me."
Gladio growled. "I know its irrational Ignis, but I can't help the way I feel."
"You're jealous." Ignis stated.
"Iggy don't—" Gladio started.
"I am too." Ignis stepped closer to Gladio and stared up into the burning amber eyes. "You think I wouldn't be? I'm not heartless just poised." He slid his hands over Gladio's shoulders gently massaging them. "I am not saying you should not be angry. I am not saying you should not feel jealous like I do. All I am saying is for you to give our prince more time. Control your anger until then and do not take it out Prompto."
Gladio huffed but slowly relaxed into Ignis' ministrations. Besides Ignis, only his family was brave enough to face the shield's wrath. "It's…it's just not fair Iggy. I—I thought me and him made progress over the years."
Cupping Gladio's face, Ignis brought their foreheads together. "I do not know what goes through Noctis' head all the time. Only Prompto and the crystal has an inkling now I suppose." The advisor chuckled. "However, it does not mean he does not want to bond with us. We have not failed. Noctis loves us in his own way and if we support him, we too can show our love. We must have patience."
Gladio sighed sadly. He knew Ignis was right. Being the oldest out of the group, he shouldn't let his emotions cloud his judgement. By law Noctis would have to bond with them when he ascended the throne, but if there is not enough trust and love between the bonding parties then it is Gladio and Ignis who have failed in their duties as Shield and Advisor. Gladio encircled Ignis' waist with his arms. The two were close because they were the same age and had to start learning their duties before Noctis. That and Gladio can admit Ignis is a very handsome man who is caring and kind. "I'll apologize tomorrow. Fair enough?"
"Fair enough." Ignis conceded.
[3AM-Witching Hour]
It was the dead of night. Except for the night detail of Kingsglaives, everyone in the palace was asleep. Until Noctis awoke to a piercing scream in his head.
HOWCOULDYOUHOWCOULDYOUHOWCOULDYOUHOWCOULDYOU
Vaguely aware of Prompto snapping awake beside him. Noctis gritted his teeth, trying to understand the message the angry crystal relayed to him through heated buzzing energy.
WHEREISHEWHEREISHEWHEREISHEWHEREISHE
WHERE IS HE
The confused bond told Prompto that his bond-mate was in pain. He heard a loud scream in his head a moment before Noctis jumped up. Prompto was torn from sleep and fought to keep his eyes open. "Noc…tis?"
The Prince had grabbed his head with both hands trying to block out the crystal's wailing. Because Prompto was not connected with the crystal like Noctis, he could not understand the crystal's words. He could hear the screaming though and he grabbed his bond-mate in fear when Noctis did not answer. "Noct!"
"I'm—I'm fine." Noctis heaved. "The crystal…it wants…something… a male…"
BRINGHIMTOMEBRINGHIMTOMEBRINGHIMTOMEBRINGHIMTOMEBRINGHIMTOME
WHO YOU STUPID CRYSTAL!?
PROMPTO ARGENTUM
Noctis gasped as he heard the name. "It wants you." He turned to his best friend, eyes blown wide. "For some reason it wants to meet you."
