#ckyking

“Is it safe?” Were the first words he spoke as his date pulled the dark helmet off his head.

“You’ve never been on a motorcycle?”

The prince stared at him for a moment like he had two heads. “You do know who I am, right? First born son, the only son and only heir. You honestly think my father would allow me to run around the city on a motorcycle?”

Noctis’ response held such seriousness that he couldn’t stop the laugh that came. “I guess not. Well, dear ‘ol dad doesn’t have a say today.” Reaching behind him, Nyx unhooked the spare helmet and held it towards the prince to take. “Come on, live a little. Anyway, I’m driving so we’re gonna be fine.”

Standing silence for a moment, Noctis weighed the options presented to him. Thinking back on the many lessons that Ignis had forced him to suffer through, one lesson stood out. He’d told him - at times it was better to beg for forgiveness than ask for permission. Mind made up, he descended the last few steps and took the helmet from Nyx hand, placing it on his head. The glaive reached out, fastening the clip as he tightened it to fit properly. “The fact that you are driving is the exact reason why I am concerned. You were shot saving my life, so I can tell you have little concern for your own.”

One hand went straight to his heart, clutching the leather jacket he wore. “Ouch, you wound me Noctis. So little faith in the Hero of the Kingsglaive?”

Making a sound that resembled annoyance, he threw his leg over the back seat, clutching the sides of his coat lightly. “Ah, is that what you are calling yourself as of late? So you’re not only a flirt, you’re full of yourself as well? Or should we call it delusions of grandeur?”

“Wow, you are so harsh little prince, extremely harsh.” Yet he chuckled like he knew the man behind him was teasing and didn’t seem to take any offense. “You’ve insulted me, insulted my driving. If we survive, and if we make it back, you owe me an apology and a kiss.”

“First a date, now a kiss? You’re becoming more trouble than you’re worth, glaive.”

Glancing back at Noctis, Nyx had the biggest smirk that he’d ever seen him wear. “Oh, believe me, Noctis. I’m 100% worth it.” With that said, he placed his helmet back on. “Hold on, but not too tight. We are going to the lower districts.”

They pulled away from the Citadel, exiting the gate and went speeding through the streets of Insomnia within minutes. Dark eyes watched as buildings and people became a blur of color around him. This was unlike the pomp they subjected him to as heir, and Noctis found he enjoyed it. No one stared at them, or pointed as they passed, the Lucian people continued on with their day and didn’t spare them a second glance as the glaive weaved his way through afternoon traffic. If his life could always be this way Noctis knew he’d be happy, yet the reality of his life wouldn’t allow it. But, for the moment he could pretend that he was like anyone else and even though it was only a momentary relief, it was enough.

The two made their way deeper into the city, taking an off ramp from the main highway that led down into the immigrant district. Though he’d never been here before, Noctis had heard of it many times from the council and his father. It was the heart of all those who’d entered the city looking for the safety the walls provided, and they had discussed this area in meetings often. How they could better serve those who came for sanctuary while knowing many Lucian’s within Insomnia would have preferred they leave.

In all honesty, until now he’d held no opinion supporting either side and hadn’t held an urge to understand them. Noctis knew it was the immigrants that fought for their city in the Kingsglaive, and for that, he was grateful and respected their abilities. At the same time, like the wall, they were yet another reminder that his father wouldn’t last long in this world. That one day, it would be him wasting away for a city and a people who saw him as nothing but a barrier between this world and the darkness without.

Allowing such dark thoughts to leave him, Noctis leaned forward. “You’re not from Insomnia.” He shouted loud enough for the man to hear over the roar of the engine and the wind that flew by. It was a comment, not a question and he saw the glaive nod in answer. “Where are you from?”

“Galahd, little prince. Islands to the North East of here.” Noctis laid his chin on Nyx shoulder to catch the words. “I’m sure you’ve heard of them?”

He had, it was the last Lucian province attacked by the Empire after his Grandfather had drawn the wall back. Noctis remembered his father’s stories when he was little, of going to fight and to defend their allies but it had done little against the Empire’s Magitek forces. “Yes, my father fought there.”

Nodding again, he felt a hand pat his own gently. “Hold tight, Noctis.” They were off the main road a moment later and speeding through narrow streets crowded with shops and people. The prince was instantly hit with unfamiliar sounds and smells, they overwhelmed his senses to the point that he ended up burying his face into the glaives back. Turning onto a side street, they came to a stop when Nyx pulled into an underground parking area and cut the bike off. “You ok, little prince?”

“Yeah, I’m fine.” Hopping off the back, he handed Nyx the helmet and leaned against a wall waiting for the glaive to finish securing his bike. “So, what will we be doing here?”

“Aren’t one for surprises, are you? If you must know, there is a festival going on right now. Thought you might enjoy getting out of that pretty box you live in and have a little fun.” Unfortunately, Nyx didn’t know how close to the mark he’d been with that comment. “As for actual plans? I promise that we will have some good food, good drinks and hopefully by the end you’ll find that I am good company.” Extending his hand to him, Nyx waited for the prince to take it. “So, are you ready?”

After a moment of hesitation, Noctis took it and noted the warmth in his touch. Tightening his hold on the prince, Nyx dragged him into the festivities with a grin. Exiting the dark underground garage the first thing that caught Noctis eye was the setting sun painting the sky in rich oranges, violets, and reds. After that, the prince became overwhelmed with the sights and smells that accosted his senses. He took in the crowded streets filled with colorful lights strung over every business, home, and fence that lined the walkways as Nyx pulled him along. Turning his head as immigrants called from their booths, hawking their wares as children and adults enjoyed the festivities and made their way from one party to the next. Noctis wasn’t accustomed to events like this, and it was nothing like the galas and political events he and his father attended on a regular basis. This was different, this was just fun.

The two walked for a while and enjoyed the controlled madness of the fair. Nyx would stop Noctis when something would catch his eye, pointing to different items or attractions as they went. He would lean down, speaking into his ear as he told him of the dances or ceremonies that belonged to his culture. But, he could tell that it was a lot for the young man and allowed Noctis to take everything in at his own pace. They had been walking for a while when the glaive saw the side street they needed and was about to pull him along, but a light tug on his hand made him look back. “Little Prince?” Following the gaze, Nyx noted the booth that had caught his attention. Children surrounded it, coins in hand, as a kind old woman handed them some type of golden bun.

“That smells wonderful, what is it Nyx?” Dark eyes glanced up as he moved to stand at the prince’s side.

Reading the sign, that happened to be in his own tongue, Nyx smiled down at his date. “That is a treat that we would receive as children during festivals.”

“I see, only for children.”

Seeing the disappointment, the glaive tugging him over to the booth and waiting for the children gathered to leave. Once there was an opening, Nyx smiled down at the older woman and held up two fingers as he spoke the language of his homeland. Noctis watched him with interest, it had been the first time he’d heard Galahdian and he found it soothing to his ears. The woman chuckled at the glaive, and picked up two of the sweet buns, smiling as she urged Noctis to take them. “Go head, I got it.” Nyx grabbed a few gil, thanking her, as Noctis following his lead and thanking her as well. “It’s a type of sticky bread,” He explained, tugging the prince off to a quiet corner. “they make it with a sweet dough, honey, and spices. Try it.”

“We didn’t have to buy them.”

“Yes, I did.” Leaning closer, he spoke so only Noctis would hear him. “You seemed interested and looked like you would cry when I told you they were children’s treats. Would have broken my heart to see you cry.”

That made Noctis blush, “I was not going to cry!” He spat, handing one of the buns to Nyx. “But, thank you.” Lifting the treat to his mouth, he took a small bite from the warm pastry and moaned in happiness. It was warm and soft, melting in his mouth with a sweetness that wasn’t overbearing. Taking another bite, Noctis glanced up as the glaive chuckled, arching a brow as he chewed.

“Sorry, you just look like a contented cat at the moment. It’s quite cute.” He took another bite and swallowed. “Let me guess, you’re a picky eater?”

“How could you…” Sighing, he stuffed another bite into his mouth, glaring at the glaive.

That gave him the information he’d needed without the man saying a word. “I guessed right! So, how picky are you, little prince?”

Swallowing the food in his mouth, Noctis thought the question over and shrugged. “It would be easier to ask what I will eat, honestly.” Taking another bite, he saw that Nyx was watching him, obviously waiting for an answer. “I like meat, and desserts that aren’t mushy and soft.”

“Vegetables?” The prince made a face, and Nyx laughed out loud. “That’s a no. Fish?”

“I love fish, love to fish as well.” Pausing, Noctis pulled a piece of bread off his bun and popped it into his mouth. “My father couldn’t fish, but he would take me to this quiet lake and spend all day with me. Haven’t done that in years…”

Seeing that the conversation had taken an unpleasant turn, Nyx grabbed the Prince’s free hand and started to walk. “Date number two, maybe fishing? Tell ya now, can’t fish to save my life but I’m great with a grill.”

Glancing at the man beside him, Noctis shook his head as a sigh escaped him. “You’re already assuming there will be a second date, glaive?”

“I never assume, little prince. I’m asking.” Pale eyes met the dark orbs of the shorter man beside him. Something within them made the glaive want to protect him, keep him close, but he brushed the feeling aside. “So, the second date? You fish and I’ll grill. Seems like a fair trade to me.”

They fell into a pleasant silence as they walked, Nyx allowing the younger man to consider his offer as they finished off the sweet treats from earlier. “I will agree as long as certain conditions are met. Assuming that I enjoy the rest of this evening and you get us home safe,  I’ll allow a second date. But, I get to pick the spot and I’ll drive.”

“Well, considering that I like my odds,  I’ll agree to those conditions.” Nyx squeezed his hand and pulled him down some stairs. “You’ll like this place, great meat skewers, and no vegetables if you don’t want them.” Hearing his name called, Nyx looked towards the back and nodded. “Didn’t expect them, do you mind a little extra company?” Seeing the prince shake his head, they made their way towards the occupied table. “Crowe, Pelna… meet Noctis. Noctis, this is Crowe and Pelna. Didn’t know you’d be here tonight?”

“Crowe had a craving, and I never deny her anything.”

“Smart man, Pelna.”

The woman glanced at Nyx, moving to the dark haired man beside him and arched a brow. That’s when the light flipped on, eyes going wide as she looked back at her long time friend. “Nyx…” Holding a finger to his mouth, he let out a light ’shush’, and smirked. “Going incognito, huh?”

“Guess you could say that, so far so good.” He took the seat across from Pelna, patting the bench. “Come on, I swear they don’t bite. Unless you’re into that kinda thing?”

“I’ll have to pass.” Taking the offered seat, Noctis glanced at the woman across from him. “I know you, the day I came to speak with Nyx, you were the one with him.”

“That is correct, Your Highness.”

Pelna did a double take, looking from Noctis to his girlfriend and then finally settled on Nyx. Speechless for a moment, he could see that the glaive was waiting for him to react. Unfortunately, the first thought that he actually voiced was, “You kidnapped the fucking prince.” Which sent them all into a laughing fit, including Noctis.

“How the hell did you come to that conclusion?” He had no response to Crowe’s question, so she shook her head. Noctis was still laughing, his face buried in his arms as Nyx rubbed his back. “I doubt they would be hanging out here if he’d kidnapped him, Pelna.”

Pelna looked to Nyx to explain the situation, so he took pity on him. “We are on a date, I guess. When I was high on drugs I asked if this could be my reward for saving his life.”

Crowe snorted as her boyfriend started to relax, now understanding the situation. “Date?” Glancing between the two, she rested on the flushed face of the little prince. "You poor thing, it must be torture. In all the time I’ve known this ass, I’ve never seen anyone go out with him willingly.”

“Wow, Crowe…” Icy eyes glanced over at Noctis, who had started to laugh again, and was trying hard to hide it. “I don’t know why you’re laughing, you’re the one who agreed to this!” Ruffling his hair, Nyx grinned and was glad to see the prince actually enjoying himself.

“Of course I did, how could I refuse a man who saved my life? Anyway, seeing you high on drugs was really cute.” Realizing what he’d said, Noctis blushed and covered his mouth as Nyx blinked. His curiosity got the best of him. Nyx wanted the prince to clarify on what he meant by that, but Crowe interrupted him before he could ask.

“I knew it!” Slamming her hand on the table, she pointed at the glaive. “Pity date!” Leaning over to Pelna, she nipped his neck, grinning. “Why don’t you and Nyx go get more food. There isn’t enough here for everyone, and I’m still hungry!” Pelna stood, smacking Nyx in the arm as he passed. “Go on, I’ll keep your date company for the whole five minutes it will fucking take you.” Waving him off, she watched them go and then pulled her attention back to the prince. “If he doesn’t behave, tell me. I’ll get on his ass so fast…”

“It’s fine. He’s,” She could see that he was trying to find the right words, so picked up another piece of meat as she waited. “…different from the people I associate with. It’s not a bad thing, please don’t take it as such. I’m just not used to this.”

Picking at the skewer with her fingers, Crowe nodded. “I understand, you’re not used to being with a man.” Seeing him shake his head surprised her. “Then what?”

He finally looked up at her, a light flush still spotting his cheeks. “Being with someone who respects me, and doesn’t seem to care about who I am.” That made the woman frown as his eyes dropped back to the table. “To most, I am not me. I am Noctis Lucis Caelum, Prince of Lucis and Heir to the throne. Most of the people around me use my title like a weapon, load it with all of these expectations and then burden me with the weight of it. Nyx,” Dark eyes glanced over at the two men for a moment, and then looked at Crowe. “he doesn’t seem to care who I am, as long as I’m happy.” Maybe he’d been too honest with her, but it was a relief to him to say it.

“It’s not a bad thing, kid. Being happy? Everyone deserves to have some kinda happiness in their life.”

“I agree,” Picking up her cup, he turned it in his hands. “I’m just worried he’ll end up like them. That the prince will end up mattering more than Noctis does. So, it’s hard to get close to people.”

“Don’t do that to yourself, never doubt your feelings. Look, he’s a good man, better than most honestly.” Watching him for a moment, she leaned her chin onto her hand. “He’s got demons, a lot of scars… but who doesn’t these days? As long as you’re honest with him, he will never betray you. It’s a partnership, cutie. That’s how we live, trusting in one another, and he’s never let me down.”

Noctis didn’t get a chance to respond as Pelna and Nyx returned to the table, hands full of different items. “I hope you like good meat and shitty beer!” The table ended up covered in cups, bowls and a pitcher a moment later.

“Beer for all of us? How sweet of you, Nyx.”

“Noctis first,” Grabbing the pitcher before she had a chance to, Nyx glanced at his date. “would you like some before these gluttons drink it all?” A subtle nod was all he needed as he filled up his cup and Pelna pushed a bowl of skewers over to him. “Eat up, I still have one more surprise to show you before we get you home.”

He picked up the meat, instantly noting the lack of vegetables that the others had. Smiling, Noctis leaned against the glaive for a moment. “Thank you.” Watching the three start to eat, he finally took a bite and his eyes widened. It was good, one of the best meals he’d ever had. Taking another bite, he saw Pelna watching him as he chuckled.

“I have no doubt this is your first time having these.” Noctis nodded, his mouth full of juicy spicy meat. “Just like home, sometimes he’ll make them milder for the curious Lucian’s who wander down here. But Nyx told him not to hold back, wanted you to have the real thing minus the veggies.”

Swallowing, he reached for the beer they’d given him and took a drink. Instantly his nose wrinkled and Noctis shook his head. “Now that I can live without.” Those words made the three with him laugh.

“It’s an acquired taste, little prince. You’ll get used to it.”

“…will I?”

Glancing over, he could see the look in Noctis’ eyes, he knew it all too well. “Yeah, you will. It comes in bottles as well so I can always sneak you in some to the Citadel.” Noctis sighed, looking down at his dish, but didn’t reply.

Nyx realized they were words, empty and meaningless. Noctis knew much of words, in politics, it was all he dealt with and what he wanted was actions. He needed to see that Nyx meant what he said and that he wasn’t stringing him along because of who he was. Nyx didn’t know how he would prove it, but he knew he couldn’t stand to watch Noctis retreat back behind the mask he wore as the prince. Tossing his gaze at his two friends, Nyx leaned down bumping his forehead against the side of his. “But it’s always better with friends, so I’ll just have to sneak you out with us more.”

Biting his bottom lip, Noctis glanced to the side. “I-I’d like that… if I can find the time.”

Crowe could only snort as Nyx tugged the prince closer and nuzzled him. “Or I can just prince-nap you.” Smiling up at the glaive, Noctis nodded. “Good, now eat.”

It was a little over an hour later, when they’d stuffed themselves with food and beer, that they parted company. Making their way back up the stairs, Noctis kept a tight hold on the glaives hand seeing that the streets were busier than they had been earlier. Continuing to walk, Nyx entertained the young prince by pointing to local businesses that he was a patron of. He mentioned his favorite spot for breakfast, who had the best fruit, bread and even the local blacksmith that kept his weapons up to snuff. Noctis listened, honestly interested by such normal day to day routines because it was so different from the life he led.

“This way little prince.” Going through a very narrow alley, they ducked under a few low hanging plants and ended up at some stairs.

As they descended, Noct could help but ask, “How did you even find this place?”

“Mostly from getting lost a lot when I first moved here.” The two ended up on a small dock, as he pointed up. “They have fireworks at night and you get a great view from here.” The prince looked where he was pointing, waiting for the show to start as he shivered lightly. Noticing that he hadn’t brought a coat with him, probably because Nyx hadn’t mentioned it, he pulled him close. “Is that any better, little prince.”

“Yes, thank you.”

“Anything for you.” Cuddling against him, a loud whistle echoed in the canyon around them, a cracking followed as the sky lit up with color. The two stood in silence, just enjoying the show until Nyx bowed his head to speak. “This reminds me of your eyes.”

Looking away from the show above them, Noctis glanced at the glaive holding him. “How do fireworks remind you of my eyes.”

“Mm,” Pale ice met the prince’s dark hues, watching him for a few seconds. “Your eyes,” He noted the flush rising on Noctis cheeks as he spoke. “they are a beautiful dark blue, like the night sky. I can see the power that your family wields flowing through you like the blood in your veins. It’s like…sparks of silver and blue making  waves that swirl across the darkness.” Tilting his head, the prince turned in his arms to watch the glaive closer. “I first saw it when I saved your life when I was laying over you. I saw fear, but I also saw power…and I thought - ah, this little prince will blow us all away one day. But it was more than that, I felt I could see your heart in your eyes and it seemed so fragile…” His words tapered away, lifting up a hand to brush back dark bangs as he continued to stare at Prince.

“Nyx,” Frowning when he didn’t respond, Noctis poked him in the chest. “Glaive!”

“I’m sorry, what? I keep getting lost in your eyes.”

Tossing him a look of annoyance, Noctis stood on his toes and placed a gentle kiss on the corner of Nyx mouth. “You earned it, but Crowe is right.”

“Right?”

“You honestly can go from romantic and heartfelt to cheesy as fuck at the drop of a hat.”

Nyx couldn’t deny that one. Pulling him closer, he placed a kiss to the pale forehead. “You don’t seem to mind… come on, my little prince, let’s get you home.”

The Captain allowed the two the privacy of his office, pointing a finger at Nyx as he walked by and reminding him to behave. Giving the glaive a look that was to remind Nyx of how below the prince he was, Drautos bowed to Noctis. Acknowledging him with a bow of his head, the prince watched as he exited the room and the door closed with a loud click. Alone, Noctis glanced over at Nyx as dark hair fell over deep ocean blue eyes before speaking.

That’s when the glaive discovered the reason for the young royals visit to the compound. “I said what?”

“You don’t remember, then?” Did Nyx see the disappointment in his eyes? “Well, I feel I have made my intentions quite clear and now I am simply acting on the promises made that day. So, see that we are at an understanding I am here to make an arrangement for our date.”

One hand rose to run through ashen hair, pale eyes locked on the smaller male. His brain couldn’t process this, and it seemed that the prince was serious when it came to the conversation that day. “You’re not lying are you?” Noctis didn’t have time to speak when Nyx let out a low hiss. “Of course you’re not lying, you’re a fucking prince. I mean, not that it means much when it comes to honesty.”

“You ask for a date, and now you insult me?” Walking to the desk, Noctis sat on the edge as a single dark brow rose. “Are you always this charming with those you’ve flirted with?”

“Usually I remember the people I flirt with.” He replayed, his words laced with amusement. “Honestly, it sounds like some shit I’d say.”

“I don’t know if it will help,” A hum rose within him, judging his next words. “You called me beautiful as well.” Noctis couldn’t help the slight pull that curved his lips at the glaives bemused expression.

Nyx couldn’t help how his breath hitched at the sight of his prince smiling, and the thought that beautiful has been an understatement echoed in his mind. The eyes that watched him were like deep breathtaking pools reflecting the starry night sky, yet he noted that the amusement didn’t reach his eyes. Noctis was quick to look away, one hand rising to wrap around his chest as Nyx continued to watch him. “I remember someone chasing off Crowe, a prince. Sorry to say, everything after that is just a big drugged up blur.”

“I don’t know if I should be offended that you forgot, or relieved that I could have gotten out of this agreement.”

Chuckling, Nyx made his way towards the prince but kept a wide berth. The prince came off jumpy, but maybe it was his nerves that gave him that impression. Bowing, with an exaggerated flourish, he smiled up at Noctis. “Your Highness, it would be an honor to escort you around Insomnia for an evening of entertainment.” Ever the flirt, Nyx couldn’t help but wink. “I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I allowed the Prince of Lucis to break his word.”

“Noctis.” Righting himself, Nyx gave him a thoughtful look. “You may call me Noctis. It is only fair, seeing you already gave me permission to call you Nyx.”

“Very well, Noctis.” Reaching out cautiously, he took the young man’s hand and placed a kiss to his knuckles. “If you have nothing planned, it just so happens I have tomorrow off. Why don’t I come to the Citadel about four, I think I know where I would like to take you.”

“Take me?” A flush had risen on his cheeks as the glaive continued to hold his hand, but his voice held amusement when he spoke. “If I remember correctly, this was a reward that was offered to you. Shouldn’t I be the one taking you somewhere?”

“You said I simply asked for a date, never said you had to be the one to take me anyway. After all, spending an evening with you is reward enough. I’m honored that you agreed to this, Noctis.” He could see a moment of hesitance in those dark orbs, but a protest never came. “Shall I pick you up at four then?”

“Very well, I’ll await you at the Citadel.” Pulling his hand from the glaive’s hold, Noctis made his way to the door, his fingers pausing on the handle. “I’ll say this once again since your memory of our conversation seems to be so hazy. Thank you for saving my life.”

He wasn’t given a chance to respond as the Prince exited the office, closing the door. Nyx found himself thinking that this little heir was quite interesting, and was looking forward to their date the next day. “You’re welcome, little prince.”

){°•○•°}(

“I am going alone.”

“No Noct.”

“What the hell, Gladio?” Annoyed by his shields actions, Noctis could only glare at his friend. When would he get it through his thick skull that he was sick of the constant babying? “Are you saying you can’t trust me along with a Kingsglaive, of all people, for a few hours?”

“I didn’t say that.”

“You implied!” He snapped, throwing a shirt down on his bed. “Just, stop it Gladio.”

“This glaive doesn’t know you how I know you.” He knew he was being over protective, but this was his future king, his friend. He’d be damned if Noctis didn’t live to be the next King, but too many close calls had left him a bit paranoid. “He doesn’t know what you’ve done, and what others have done. This man doesn’t know what to watch for!”

“Are you saying a member of my father Kingsglaive is incapable of protecting me?”

“Yes! If anything, from yourself!”

He hadn’t realized that he’d yelled that until he saw the prince shut down. The prince’s eyes grew cold as his hands tightened into fists at his side, head dropping to stare at the floor. “I fuck up and none of you can let it go, can you? What I did was on me, Gladio. Not you or Ignis… or even my father.”

“You tried to…”

A hand raised, silencing the shield as the unfinished sentence hung between them. “I know what I did, I couldn’t forget it if I tried with how much I’m reminded!” Turning from the man, Gladio could see he was holding back tears with how he held himself. “I am going, and you will not follow. You will not send anyone else to follow, just deal with it.”

“Noct,”

“Dismissed, Gladiolus.” Noctis could tell that he wanted to speak, maybe even beg, but he bowed and exited the room without another word. Taking a deep breath, his body started to shake with the tension he’d held inside and collapsed on to the bed. Part of him wondered if his Shield would return, but by the time he’d calmed himself no one had entered his room.

Part of him felt it was better this way, at some point they would have to learn to trust him. Determined to follow through with his choice to meet the glaive alone, Noctis stood and went back to his closet. This made him realize that he had a few issues with his plan. First, he had no idea what to wear and Nyx hadn’t told him where they were going. Second, he’d forgotten to ask the glaive for his phone number and had no way to reach him.

A quick call to Drautos solved the second issue with little effort and soon he was staring at the number trying to decide if he should call or text. Deciding that a text would be a little less awkward, Noctis decided to take that route.

[14:23:47] Noct: I have no idea what to wear for this outing.

Setting the phone down, the prince bit his bottom lip with his teeth, worrying at it after a moment. Staring at the clothes on his bed wasn’t helping at all, and made him feel confused. A few minutes later the phone chimed and Noctis looked at the message.

[14:26:10] Nyx: Not even going to ask how you got my number.

Smiling, Noctis plopped down on the bed and responded.

[14:27:31] Noct: Trade secret, I’d have to kill you. So, are you going to help me?

The glaive didn’t seem that upset with him texting so he decided that it would be safe to save the number in his phone as he waited for the man’s response. A moment later his phone chimed again and Noctis flipped back to the messenger.

[14: 29:03] Nyx: Would this trade secret have to do with my Captain? Yes, I’ll help. Just wear what you got on.

[14:30:58] Noct: Nyx, I’m wearing my pajamas. Somehow no matter where we go, I doubt it’s appropriate. As for your Captain, did he message you?

The reply came quickly, and the prince chuckled when he read it.

[14:32:29] Nyx: Maybe, more like a veiled threat to keeping my indiscretions private. Just dress normal, believe me, it’s not a big deal but we will have fun.

He couldn’t help the thought that his man was a breath of fresh air after being coddled for so long. Nyx didn’t seem to hold back when speaking to him, and it felt so normal, felt comfortable.

[14: 35:02] Noct: I think you and I might differ in the definition of what normal is. Anyway, your Captain is right. Next time you ask someone for a date, don’t forget to give them your number, glaive.

[14:36:20] Nyx: That’s sound advice, Your Highness.Do you have jeans and a t-shirt, if not wear something casual? I wouldn’t mind if you came naked myself, but we will wait on that for another date down the line.

Dark eyes widened at the message and was trying to think of a proper response when another message quickly followed.

[14:37:12] Nyx: Please ignore the last comment, realized sending that comment to the son of my boss could put my life at risk. I’d like to live a bit longer.

Laughing, Noctis just shook his head at the man’s antics.

[14:38:37] Noct: I have jeans and a t-shirt, and the comment is forgotten. I’ll see you soon unless you want to back out to save yourself.

[14:40:29] Nyx: I’m yours. Not backing out, little prince. Showering, see you soon.

[14: 42:09] Noct: See you soon.

The pale young man glanced over, the lights of the city reflected into dark eyes, and Nyx swore the universe itself was held within that gaze. It was like the Opheliac that ran through his master’s blood - rich, potent and addicting. Calling to him, binding him and he refused to fight its hold on him, accepting it as one would a familiar lover. Pulling back the warm blankets, he allowed the sheets to fall from his naked form as he stood. Making his way over, Nyx pulled the cooling body close, nuzzling his face into the slender neck left bare. Noctis’ attention stayed on the city below, dragged in by the lights that filled the night sky.

“Are you asking, or simply speaking of something you know nothing of?” He whispered, arching his neck to give the man further access as Nyx pressed tender kisses and nips into the sensitive flesh. Noctis received a muffled snort in answer, feeling blunt teeth bite harder into his shoulder. “To love something, yet allow it to depart for the Land of the Dead, is a human emotion. To love, and accept it, in all of its sweetness, one has to taste the bitterness of loss as well.”

His focus shifted upwards, and Nyx noted the smile that pulled at his lips. “That is amusing to you?”

“The idea of you asking about love is what I find amusing, Nyx.”

“I can love,” light kisses found their way to the prince’s jaw as he spoke those words, releasing a hum of approval. “As I love your soul. I am bound to you until you return to your rightful place. Don’t you remember, my little prince… Etro ut tenemur, per tenebras salvi facti sumus.”

“Only until then?” Orbs like the darkened sky glanced up at him, his hand reaching to cup the man’s jaw gently. “Would you forsake me, abandon the soul you claim to adore?”

“Never, don’t you remember? We stood upon the crossroads, you and I.”

Noctis pulled his hand away, stretching it out before him as he motioned to the city and leaned back into his hold. “Yes, for I am yours and you are mine, forever you will serve the King of Kings.”

“My vow to you, to your soul.” Placing a tender kiss to the side of his head, Nyx looked out over the city. “Forevermore my prince, my king.”

He relaxed into Nyx hold, the coolness of his body enhancing his own as he closing his eyes to the bright lights below. The crystal several floors above vibrated, as the violet-blue glow echoed with power, flowing through him and thrumming in time with his heartbeat. Noctis could feel the crystal binding ever deeper into his mind. It called to him, tugging him farther into the darkness as his skin cooled to an icy chill. “The veil is drawn aside, can you feel it?”

“Yes.” Opening his eyes, Noctis looking up at his protector, his knight. Midnight hues were blown wide from energy within him, as bright blues, purples, and greens reflected there, mimicking waves of the ocean. “Noctis, little prince… come back to me? The crystal doesn’t need you yet.” Nyx reached deep within, pulling at the bond they shared. It was easy to find his masters source, shining like a beacon in the blackest night. Smiling, he could feel the pale skin being too warm under his touch and held him closer. “You don’t need that power yet, let it go for now.”

A moment of silence enveloped them as if the world stopped and started once again within a singular breath. Noctis blinked, focusing on the older man that still held him close, returning the smile. “You will never let me fall, will you?”

“Not while there is breath in this body, little prince. Your soul is mine, and I intend to keep it.”

Turning in his hold, the prince reached up to delicately kiss him. Their breaths mingling as he buried one pale hand into ashen hair, fingers entwining with the braids and cords found there. Icy and dark eyes met as Noctis bit his lower lip gently. “How terrible it is,” He whispered, cool lips moving against Nyx own. “To love something that death can touch…”

“I guess I’ll never know.” The kiss was deep and desperate, tongues clashing in an all too familiar dance. Reaching down, he pulled from the kiss to pick up his charge. “Why don’t we return to bed, and I’ll help you warm back up again?” He didn’t need a verbal answer when Noctis looked at him like that - when he could feel the bond they shared tightening as Noctis’ hold on him increased.

He could only submit to the pull and allow it. Giving in as he always had - as he always would.

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