Promnis Week @promnis-week - Tumblr Blog

Guilded Freckles Chapter 6

Can be read on AO3 HERE.

Summary:

Ignis and Prompto attend the first official event for the Fertility Festival. Their goal: try to get an invitation to the cocktail party afterwards; where only the most elite political figures are welcome. Try to make as many connections as possible; without making any significant enemies. You only get one chance at your political debut. It is a good thing Ignis' dancing partner is quite exceptional.

Chapter 6: The Tea Party

"Announcing The Duchess of the Elements, Terra Firma Scientia. With her Son, Ambassador to Insomnia, Ventus Scientia." "Announcing Lady Aqua Scientia, her husband Frigor Scientia, as well as their sons. Pyrus Scientia and Aquarius Scientia."

"Announcing, Hand of the 114th Lucis Prince, Third Head Officer of the Crowns Guard, Sir Ignis Scientia, and his escort."

It was not often that Ignis heard his full title. Usually he entered events with Noctis or Gladio, who took a lot more presidence over him. 'Hand of the Prince' couldn't have been more ironic in his opinion. Especially since Ignis was here to do nothing other than shake hands, smile, and extend the good will of Lucis. He felt the crowns-guard title was a bit unnecessary though. Especially since it made him seem more involved than he actually was. Ignis was only an 'Officer' so that no one could outrank his authority in an emergency situation. Ignis glanced over at Prompto, who had been completely overlooked by the announcer. Though the reassuring smile blonde gave him conveyed that it was not an issue. Ignis guessed that in the grander scheme of things, it was better for the spy not to draw attention to themselves.

Together they descended the two steps down into the tea garden. There were only a handful of people who were even acknowledging the entries. They were on time, which meant they were early. A staple of anyone who took business seriously. Ignis eyed over the current attendants. Seeing a handful of Niflheim people, all wearing white predominantly. Sporting flower crowns of various designs and colors. Which contrasted those from Tenebrea, who wore bright colors of all kinds. Though most of the colors weren't worn. A part of Ignis' stomach twisted into a knot. Seeing the painted images on exposed arms, shoulders, backs and even legs in some cases.

The garden itself was a cobbled plaza surrounded by an ivy covered wall. A large rendition of the Leviathan snaked through the tables and chairs. Broken up artfully so as to give people spaces to mingle in, and benches to sit on. Most of this statue was a hollow trough. Filled with water, where lilies and other such flowers were abundantly on decorating the space. There was a center dias, which the Leviathan's tail wrapped around. Set up with a microphone stand, and speakers hidden by flower vases.

The Scientia family found their place settings towards the raised stage. The table being a designated safe place for officials to sit without being approached by others. This part of the party was designated as a time to walk around and mingle. Do introductions and meet faces. So the family took a moment to touch base before spreading out.

As the head of their family, it was technically Grandmother Terra's job to introduce Ignis around. However the woman was currently being shadowed by several Tenebrae guards. Who seemed of the opinion that Ignis' grandmother was going to set something on fire. Something which was not helped by her foxy, amused smile.

"Would you like to start anywhere in particular?" Ignis asked, his companion quietly. While they had no eyes on them.

"Where ever you need to be." Prompto shook their head. Dangling gold earrings glittering in the afternoon sun. Most of Prompto was glittering to be fair. The two of them were the only people wearing black. Yet because of their golden accents, they were some of the shiniest people in the room. Even compared to others who had painted themselves with metallic accents. There was just something about the contrast. Everyone else was celebrating the festival with soft pastels, and vibrant flowers. Meanwhile they were hard blacks and sharp metals. Ignis felt some worry that they stood out a bit too much.

Ignis turned his attention back to his Grandmother. Who was standing with her hands on her hips. "Are you accusing me of being a trouble maker?" she towered over the guards. Still grinning ear to ear.

The guard sputtered and backed away. "No, no I would never."

"Mama." Aqua cut in with a scowl, not afraid to bring the woman to task. "You are nothing but trouble. Now stop this."

Terra gave her her daughter a sideways look, then leaned back with a haughty huff. "Very well. You lot are getting off easy." She warned the guards. Pointing to them with a finger each, and then to her golden eye. A sort of 'I'm watching you' warning. The guards, fearfully scattered. As if they were afraid to be cursed or something. Ignis stared at his grandmother with wonder. Genuinely not knowing if he should be impressed or concerned.

Aqua was not impressed however, she shook her head. "Since you are in such a mood; perhaps it would be better for Ventus to do the introductions."

Terra turned, hands on her hips and lips pursed. "Nonsense. People would not take Ignis seriously if he is introduced by someone of lesser rank than themselves. Come, Ignis. Byrra. Are you two ready?"

"Never been readier." Ignis standing affirmed that he was.

"Good." Terra reached out and pulled each of them under one arm. Like she was going to let them in on a secret. "Let's go paint the town red."

"Mama." Aqua reprimanded harshly, then advised Ignis. "Do not let her run away with words." Aqua warned Ignis with a hiss.

"Aqua, I know how to behave myself." Terra assured her daughter, "I have been doing this for much longer than you, you know." Aqua just looked at her mother doubtfully.

"Good luck," Pyrus chuckles. He and Aquarius had taken up their seats. Neither of them with phones to idle with, were settling in for a long and boring time. At least until some other kids their age showed up that they could idle with.

"Alright. Where to begin?" Terra pulled them out of the sitting area. To the larger floor area. Where servants were walking around with platters to offer drinks, and people were lingering around tall standing tables. Terra gave the room a critical look of her eye good. Narrowing in on two people talking amiably by a fountain. "This way."

What followed for the next hour or so was just pure and simple politics. Exactly what Ignis had expected to do for the majority of this trip. Introducing himself to people. Listening to what they had to say. Deducing what they were actually saying. Giving them practiced and correct responses. Then moving on once it was polite to do so. Terra started off by introducing him to one of the Tenebrae Council men, a Duke in his own right. Who was drinking some of the offered champagne with a Niflheim Judge. The two of them having a shared interest in sports, and from what Ignis could deduce, both held moderate political ideas. Then it was onto another figure head, and then another. Face after face, continual handshakes, and polite smiles. Ignis actually already knew most of the names he was meeting. Having memorized text books of dossiers, lists of names, and political votes. The notes his Uncle had given him. The notes Ignis had made himself in preparation for this week, based off guest lists and vote records.

People were really arriving at the party now. Announcements of arrivals were being constantly made, and by the time they were done with one conversation, there was already someone else waiting to speak with them. Some of them just came to greet his Grandmother. Others came to shake hands with him personally. Ignis was fresh meat. Everyone knew it, and wanted a taste. People circled them like sharks. Just waiting for their opportunity to talk with him. The rules of polite society being the thin pane of glass which kept them all from tearing him to bits.

Terra controlled who came and who went. With an blunt, but effortless professionalism that Ignis hoped to one day command. She was clearly an old hand at navigating such parties. Passing over certain people to address others she deemed more favorable, or who held more power. Silently taking respect where it was due, and returning it where it was deserved. Terrifying anyone foolish enough to cross her with a simple look then dismissal. It was everything Ignis himself would one day hope to be as a politician. He wanted to stand back and take notes. Unfortunately he was too caught up being the center of attention to blend into the background.

Unlike Prompto. Who was must have been dead bored by the third conversation. Much less the two dozen or so they ended up having. They stood at Ignis elbow the entire time. Rarely being addressed. Arm candy that had no purpose other than to stand there and look tasty. Which was not too uncommon of a thing in this line of work. It was a new experience for Ignis to be the one with an escort however. Which felt a little awkward at times. Ignis kept wanting to include Prompto into conversations. Turning to them to see their reactions. What they thought of people. Ignis wanted to hear them join in on the conversation. It would have cast a horrible first impression however. People would get the impression that Ignis did not think for himself. Depending on others to make decision was a sign of a flimsy politician. Expecially if Ignis was seen leaning on someone like Prompto. A commoner who had yet to prove themselves in the eyes of high society.

After nearly an hour and a half of talking Terra reached over and placed a hand onto Ignis' shoulder. Getting his attention. Leaning over to whisper in his hear. "Eyes up." Terra told him quietly. "Maroon hair. Black jacket. On my blind side." Then she straightened up and smiled at the next approaching noble. Apologizing and explaining to the crowds that they were going to be taking their leave back to the family table for some drinks.

As Terra led them back towards the stage area. Ignis politely turned and scanned the crowd without settling his eyes on any particular individual. It was not hard to spot the person his Grandmother was speaking of though. They were the only person at the party, other than Ignis and Prompto, who had chosen to wear black. It was a tall man, with a heavy tailored coat, and striped pants. Along with several layer of scarves, as if they were trying to fight off a chill. They were a dark figure in sea foam pastels and pink flowers. Ignis had never seen hair of that color before. A red, but almost purple color. Which strangley enough did not look artificially dyed. The long curls were pinned back underneath a flower crown. Consisting of roses. Dried to husks and black. With dark thorny leaves, and even some actual thorns in other places. It was certainly a choice to wear something so mournful. Especially to a celebration of life and new beginnings. Ignis knew he could hardly say anything without being hypocritical though. Ignis himself was wearing considerably even more black than the man. After scanning the crowd he turned back to watch his Grandmother's back. As she led them back to the table.

Prompto inhaled in his ear. Causing Ignis to jolt slightly. Not having realized they had gotten so close. Prompto didn't seem to notice, or care. "Chancellor Izunia is here."

"The head of the Nifflheim government?" Ignis resisted the urge to look at the man again. Trying not to seem like he was talking about the man. Even though that was exactly what they were doing. "What is he doing here?" Izunia's name had not been on the guest list. Ignis had memorized the thing. Though, he supposed that a man like that could just go wherever he wanted. His country had conquered half of the world at this point after all.

"He's everywhere dear." Terra told them dryly. Which Ignis did not know what to make of. They arrived back at their family's table, and she guided him them to their seats. Where tea and sandwiches had been served for all of them. "Now be ready. If he's here she will be shortly."

Ignis was just trying to calculate who 'she' could have been. When a fanfare of trumpets could be heard from the speakers hidden in the flowers around the garden. The whole court yard went silent, and the announcer for those coming in spoke. His voice rolling over their heads like thunder.

"Announcing Her Royal Highness, Princess Lunafreya Nox Flueuret. Oracle and mouthpiece for the Gods."

Everyone in the garden clapped as a greeting, a few cheered, someone off to the side did a whistle. Lunafreya herself appeared and stood at the entrance to the gardens. Standing with her brother. She was wearing a white dress with a heart shaped front, and lace straps. A pencil skirt which hugged her figure, almost inappropriately in Ignis' opinion. It was rather short, ending above her mid thigh. Though there were several layers of sheer white lace draped across this main dress. Giving it a ghostly sort of fluidity. Her thigh high boots and long lace gloves meant that in actuality she wasn't showing too much skin. However what skin she did show was bare, pure and almost as white as the cloth itself. Her hair was pulled up into a half pony tail, accompanied by a braid. There were Queen Lace flowers secured in this braids, along with blue sylleblossoms. Giving her a white and mostly see-through crown. Much like her lace pull over.

The announcer inhaled, and everyone quieted down for the second introduction. "Announcing his Major Ravus Nox Fleuret, of the Imperial Army." The man announced. Ravus getting a much weaker reception than Luna had. Ignis frowned, looking over towards the man standing beside Lady Lunafreya. Was he no longer considered a prince? Ignis had not heard of him being deposed from the line of the throne. Certainly the Tenebrae line favored girl heirs before male. However that did not mean he was still not allowed his title.

Ignis gave the man a brief once over. The ex-prince was wearing some rather unimaginative military formal dress. A half white- half red ensemble. Which several other Niflheim military officials were also wearing. Curiously, Ravus wasn't even wearing any flowers, and he didn't seem to have any paint on him either. He didn't even seem to be all that happy to be present. Looking more like a guard for Luna than anything else.

Ignis didn't give him more than a glance though. As his focus quickly shifted from the two nobles, to something that interested Ignis a little more on a personal level. There were four MTs accompanying the dethroned Tenebrae Prince and Princess. Two on each side. Standing still and unarmed, but at rest. Not there to intimidate, just as protection. No one paid them any mind. They were magic-tech machines after all, meant to server a purpose. Only. These MT units were painted decoratively with vines, with the occasional flower. Like an art book.

Ignis elbowed Prompto as he clapped politely for Ravus, bringing his attention to the MTS. Prompto shared a secret grin with him, just for a moment. Ignis looked around the party for Captain Lacertosus. Who had hinted that he would be attending the event. Was the man on duty though? Ignis had not heard the Niflheim captain being announced. Nor did he see the tall man blonde standing amongst the party. Though Ignis did catch sight of several more of the MT units around the perimeter. They were moving into position. Covering exits and sides. Not in a worrying fashion. Ignis was used to seeing the same happen for Crown Guards and Glaive anytime Regis or Noctis entered an event. Alongside the security which had already been present.

"It looks like Lacertosus' unit is Lunafreya's personal guard." Ignis turned and murmured to Prompto. As the Oracle and her brother descended the steps and entered the party. Being greeted and swarmed similarly to how Ignis had been not too long ago. There was enough chatter that they probably wouldn't be overheard.

Prompto hummed, casually making sure no one was listening in on them. "Interesting. I wonder if that's because of her magic."

"Magic?" Ignis asked curiously.

"It destroys demons, right? Normal MT Units are fully demonic entities." Prompto whispered into his ear, "But since these guys are... different, maybe it doesn't effect them?"

"Why not just assign normal guards?" Ignis asked with a frown.

Prompto gave Ignis a significant look. "Because humans think for themselves."

"But... Lacertosus' MTs can think for themselves." Ignis pointed out.

Prompto turned, looking back towards the MT guards, "They aren't supposed to though." Something about the way Prompto said this made Ignis's stomach twist. One day Ignis was going to have to discuss with Prompto about

"Ignis! Byrra!" Pyrus appeared behind them. Making them both tense. His cousin leaned over one of the chairs at their table. "Have the adults finished yanking you guys around yet?"

Ignis glanced around. Everyone seemed more preoccupied by the arrival of the Oracle than anything else. He had also pretty much checked all the important people off of his list. "For now."

"Awesome, come on and hang out with us then." Pyrus beckoned him to follow, and led him and Prompto away from the middle of the garden out towards the farthest corner of the party.

There, lurking in a triangular section created by the leviathan pond statue and the perimeter walls, was a whole group of teenagers. As well as one much younger girl, dressed in more pink and frills than Ignis thought was physically comfortable; judging by her unhappy scowl was probably not her own personal choice. They were all milling about. Looking bored. Exactly like kids who had their phones taken away, and then were forced to hang out with each other for a long stretch of time. This were exactly the kind of group Noctis would have spent an entire event longingly wanting to join. Ignis thought with a small smile.

"Be cool." Pyrus warned him with a look. Then raised his hand casually approaching the group. "Hey guys. This is my cousin, Ignis. As well as his girlfriend, Byrra."

That was by far the least appropriate introduction Ignis had heard anyone ever give. So in turn he gave Pyrus a sharp look, but did not let it linger. "Hello a pleasure to meet you all." Ignis greeted the group with a more polite tone.

They all blinked at him with blank expressions. Like he was a weed growing out a perfectly paved sidewalk. Ignis felt a bead of sweat slide down his shirt collar. He could talk to and speak with high officials from across nations for hours on end with no issue. However he had always struggled relating to people of his own peer group. Which was exactly why he didn't have any close friends other than Noctis and Gladio.

Well, he technically had one new friend. Prompto. Who gave the group as a whole one critical look over, and then nodded their chin upwards in greeting. "Sup? I like your swag. They from that new Assasin's game?"

With that single comment alone Prompto had nearly half the group wrapped around their little finger. The teens engaging Prompt in a conversation about video games, in trend fashions, and how much not having their phones sucked. A conversation Pyrus and Aquarius eased into of course. Leaving Ignis stranded. The one to just stand aside and listen this time around.

"You guys are so dumb." A slightly older girl with blonde hair huffed. Crossing her arms and refusing to join the larger conversation. Not directly speaking to Ignis. Rather to a book she had in her hand.

"Not a fan of video games?" Ignis asked. Trying to be friendly.

The girl gave him a critical look. "Something like that." The girl told him dully. She turned a page of her book pointedly. Ignis didn't think she was much interested in talking further. He glanced over to the group Prompto currently had absolutely enthralled. Ignis sighed. Then leaned up against the leviathan pond statue. Guessing it was his turn to wait patiently while Prompto did his thing.

The little girl swamped in hot pink spoke up from the other side of the older girl. "You're wearing nothing but black." She pointed out in the way only children could. "Isn't that like... against the rules? The Fertility festival is all about new life."

"The perks of being in retinue with the Lucis Royalty." Ignis gave the girl a smile, "Black is always allowed."

"If only." The girl huffed, then gave him a curious look, "Why are your sleeves down?" The little girl lowered her gaze to his arms. Ignis still didn't know her name. Yet her words cut into him like a knife. "Or any skin for that matter. Do you not want to show off your love marks?"

Ignis felt like someone was dragging a stick along the bars of that internal cage of his. Drumming up his anxiety once more. He could feel the older listening into the conversation with some interest. Ignis swallowed and kept a friendly tone. "Something of the sort. I am not wearing any paint."

"What? Why?" The younger girl asked with a frown. Glancing over to Prompto, and their painted arms. "If you guys are dating you should be matching, right? Otherwise you two don't belong to one another."

"Well, there are several reasons." Such as Prompto being a chosen escort and not his actual girlfriend. Prompt being 'Byrra' for everyone else, not themselves. Ignis being on the fence about wanting a new friend, much less a relationship at this moment in time, or ever really. He felt the bars getting closer. Ignis had to remind himself to breath. He remembered his conversation with Prompto that morning, and kept his tone even and polite. "Body paint makes me uncomfortable. Byrra wanted to do the paint however. So she did hers, and we decided to match in other ways." Ignis ran a hand over the golden beads on his left wrist demonstratively.

The young girl's face scrunched up with confusion. "It's just paint. It's not that scary."

'Just paint'. Ignis wanted to shake the girl by her shoulders. Paint, and a ritual where you dedicated yourself to another by declaring your possession over them. Ignis felt that familiar sickening feeling at the concept. Because how could he expect such a young girl to understand? Understand that Ignis had already dedicated himself to Noctis. That he could never commit himself to anyone else? Because all of it was already owned?

Ignis looked away, and almost said out loud the words he that were on the tip of tong.e It is to me. Which sat on his tongue with bitter sarcasm. Ignis said nothing, however. He just resigned himself to waiting for Prompto to be done with his conversation. Most of the teens were enamored with him instantly, and with some work he even managed to get a few comments from the girls and eventually wrap them up into the conversation as well. It was kind of scary to watch, objectively. How easily Prompto could wrap wires around people, and then have them dance like puppets. Ignis didn't think the spy was actually interested in any of the conversation topics. Especially after Prompto gave Ignis a secretive smile and a wink when no one was looking. An act that had a strange bubbly feeling settling in Ignis' stomach. He looked away and tried not to stare at them so openly afterwards.

"Speaking of which. Any of you guys hear about the cocktail party supposed to happen after this?" Prompto asked the group curiously, once he had cemented himself into their trust.

"Oh yeah." one of the teens shrugged. "What about it?"

Prompto weighed the group's reactions. "Do any of you plan on going?"

"Nah. None of us are old enough to drink." One of the teens shrugged, "Besides, its nothing but adults wanting to talk about politics and the war anyway."

"Oh. Bummer. From what I heard it might have been fun." Prompto shrugged as well, "But whatever."

"We were actually going to hang out after this." One of the boys gave Prompto a look that was borderline flirtatious. He had slowly been not-so-subtly showing interest in Prompto- or rather Byrra. "Have a gaming party at Harry's house. Do you want to come maybe?"

Prompto hummed, "Maybe. I'll see if I have the energy after this. Not to mention I have to finish my paint set tonight." They held up their painted arm pointedly. A symbolic reminder that they were already with someone. "The details stuff takes forever."

The boy scowled down at the paint on Prompto's arms. Then looked around for the culprit who had apparently snatched away his chance with the new pretty gamer girl. Despite Prompto having been introduced to the group as Ignis' girlfriend. The teenager's glare settled Ignis. As if he had just committed some kind of affront. Ignis mentally just rolled his eyes. He had just remembered why he didn't hang out with people his age again.

"Hey, where is your paint?" The teenage boy, whom Ignis had also yet to be introduced too, asked almost accusingly.

"He doesn't have any." The girl swamped with pink informed the others a bit too eagerly.

"Yes." Ignis kept his tone neutral. Even through gritted teeth. He felt like his cage was being rattled from side to side, and these teenagers were laughing at him through the bars. A pack of wolves, is what they were. "It is not a custom I am comfortable participating in."

"He said it makes him 'uncomfortable'" The teenage girl reading her book noted with a sideways look at her. Clearly one to start drama. Ignis resisted the urge to shoot her a glare.

The teenage boy inciting this argument scoffed. "Why kind of excuse is that?"

"Hey. You got a problem or something?" Pyrus cut in. Directly challenging the other teenage boy. "Why are you being a dick all of a sudden?"

"I'm not being a dick. He's the one who's-"

"Who's what?" Pyrus asked, squaring his jaw and shoulders. "Ignis hasn't said more than two sentences to you. All of them reasonable. He answered your question with honestly. Now you're just trying to pick a fight."

"Not cool man." Aquarius agreed crossing his arms behind the older boy.

"Yeah." Prompto also chimed in, "Kinda rude. Pushing an issue someone already gave an answer two. Besides, you don't know Ignis like I do. I would never force him to do something he didn't want to do. We get enough shit like that from our parents." Several of the other teens who looked to have been on the fence about the issue switched to being more sympathetic towards their side. Swayed by Prompto's argument.

The teenager who had tried to pick the fight seemed to realize he was being outnumbered. "Whatever. What were we talking about?"

Everyone paused with hesitation. Not sure where to go after the small almost-fight. "Whatever." Prompto pulled on all of the strings he had laid out, "So have any of you been down to the beach lately? Those new artillery pieces look sick. Right? Like that one game-"

The conversation went from there. With Ignis still just sitting on the sidelines. Watching as Prompto subtly pushed the conversation to see if he could get some more information out of the teenagers without them noticing.

Tensions died down after a few minutes. Though Ignis could still see the teenage boy giving Ignis an occasional glare, and some of the other kids the occasional look. They were all sizing him up. Which Ignis did right back. Though there really wasn't much too any of them. Interestingly enough, from what Ignis could garner, all of the teenagers were from Tenebrae. The boys from what he could tell all went to the same school as Pyrus and Aquarius. While the girls went to the respective all-girls school. None of the group were from Nifflheim. Which struck him as odd. Ignis looked around the party to see if there was another group of young teens. Finding none. Were none of the representatives from Nifflheim under the age of twenty? Sure, the city was under occupation. However, the Empire had a fairly good handle on city security by the looks of things. This festival had nearly been going on for a decade as well. Surely some of the officials would surely bring their kids along. If not for politics, than just for a vacation if nothing else.

"Ugh. Look who's here." One of the girls scoffed.

Ignis turned. He had missed the entry announcement. However, there was another teenager their age walking down the steps. They had shoulder length gray hair, which was pinned back with a cluster of blue star flowers. Like several other of the Niflheim military officials, he was wearing a military dress outfit. Giving Ignis an idea of what his role was.

"Who is that?" Ignis asked curiously.

"Loqi Tummelt." Aquarius explained, "He's like, the only teenager that comes over from Niflheim for these events. Which means we're stuck playing nice with him sometimes. You know. When the adults want to lump us all together."

"You do not get along?" Prompto hazarded a guess.

"Guy's a prick." On of the teenagers shook his head.

"Yeah. He's always on about making connections and schmoozing up to people." The girl in pink scoffed. "Going on about his career."

"Ah." Prompto didn't need to hear anything more.

"Hey guys, I think the Oracle is about to make her toast." Ignis pointed out to the group. Having noticed the shift in the room, now that he was paying attention. The majority of the people were done mingling, and starting to settle down at their tables for the tea part of the tea party, "We should probably go back to our tables."

Ignis found himself getting a whole lot of blank stares. "And?" the teenage boy who had tried to pick a fight with him sneered.

Ignis frowned at the group of teenagers. Then realized that none of them had any interest in joining in on the rest of the party. They were all content to just lurk in the back for the rest of the afternoon. Sulking and minding their own business. Which was understandable to some degree. However not something Ignis was content to do. He was there to make connections after all. Something which could hopefully lead to political deals down the line. Certainly these kids had something similar to do. Some ambition? some drive?

Ignis stared at the teens. The teenagers all stared at him. As if he were going against the flow in a very 'uncool' way. Ignis felt something old and exhausting settle into his chest. The reminder that compared to most other people his age, Ignis was older. He had always been. Six years old and having to put bandages on Noctis' scrapes. Seven years old and having to keep Gladio from stealing sweets. Eight years old and having to learn how to budget a balance for their weekly snacks. Attend etiquette classes. Learn to speak foreign languages. Never old enough to be an adult. Never allowed to just be a child.

"Ah, man." Prompto groaned dramatically. Stealing everyone's attention. They slid off the pond edge they had been leaning against. "This sucks. We never get to do what we want."

"Yeah." One of the teenagers agreed, then frowned, "What?"

"We'd love to hang out more. But we're going to get in like, super in trouble if we don't head back." Prompto explained to the group. They reached over and placed a hand on Ignis' shoulder. A solid weight to anchor onto, "Iggy's going to be stuck shaking hands all weekend. That's why he wears the gloves." Ignis felt his heart pick up a beat. Realizing what Prompto was doing. Extracting from the situation without losing face. Making sure that he wasn't cemented as the next Loqi to this group. Framing Ignis less as a workaholic and more just someone who had to go do their homework.

"We will catch up with you guys later. Come on Iggs." Prompto slipped an arm into Ignis'. Turning him away from the group. Giving them one last peace sign before they headed off.

"Oh. Okay?" One of the teens said with some confusion. Aquarius frowned at Pyrus. Who was watching them go with a slightly confused look. The two of them knowing full well that there was no trouble for Ignis to get into. They didn't say anything outwardly though.

Prompto led Ignis back towards the sitting area. Stopping when they passed by a column decorated with flowers, which artfully hid a speaker playing some background music. They released Ignis' arm, and gave him some space. "Hey. Take a breath. You okay?"

"I am fine." Ignis took off his glasses. Taking out a cloth to clean them off. Trying to find the words. "Thank you. For that. Usually people..." think he's a prude. Uptight. A prick. "Yes. Thank you."

"No problem." Prompto stepped back to give him some space. Hands pressed together. "I know I kind of took over there for a second. But those kinds of groups are tricky to juggle you know? Teenagers tend to turn on anyone who thinks or acts differently."

Yet Prompto had them dancing like marionettes the second they started the conversation. Ignis sighed. Making sure his glasses were sitting on his face correctly. "I just... guess you could say that being easygoing does not come easy to me."

Prompto snorted with amusement, "Fair enough. That's not a bad thing though. We balance each other out. You leave the terrifying teenagers to me. Then you can handle all those gods-awful boring adults." Prompto pointed to Ignis, then hiked a thumb back at himself.

Ignis had to contain a looked of surprise. He had never thought of it like that. Having someone he to balance jobs with. To fill in the gaps where he fell short. Instead of Ignis just hyper focusing on his flaws. Trying to be impossibly perfect at everything. Which always had him burning himself out so quickly. But having someone else he could just rely on. That was such a different, yet wonderful way to frame things. Especially since Ignis now had someone he could rely on. Ignis had never seen anyone handle conversations as effortlessly as Prompto did, and so far the spy had proven to be nothing but reliable.

Ignis inhaled, there was that bubbly feeling in his stomach again. "You are quite astonishing. By which I mean you, and not anyone else." Ignis clarified to get his point across, then "I am grateful to have your company for this week."

Prompto blinked at the compliment, then blushed. Ears turning red, and a smattering of freckles peaking through their makeup. "What? Nah. I'm just. Doing my best. you know?" They tripped over their words self consciously. Fiddling with their bracelets and wrist band.

"Well your best is more than adequate. It's exemplary." Ignis praised with confidence. Causing the spy to fluster once more.

"Dude." Prompto protested, as red as a tomato. "Enough. Look at how splotchy my completion is getting." They took out their compact mirror despairingly. "I look like a shrimp."

Ignis couldn't help but laugh out loud at the comment. It was just too funny. Especially with how Prompto pouted at him afterwards. Though the blonde did not seem to hold it against him. They reapplied some powder, and then snapped the compact shut, "Where to next?"

Ignis considered the party floor. "We should sit down and listen to the opening speech. Then I want to speak to Luna at some point." he informed, "I have a gift from the prince I need to give to her."

"Oooo! Okay. We still need to get to this cocktail party too." Prompto reminded him. Ignis agreed. Plans made they walked out from behind the pillar. Making their way towards the tables. Sitting down just as Lunafreya was escorted up onto the stage by her brother. Aqua shot them a look, and then looked too the empty chairs beside them. Then turned with a frown. Looking for her sons. Who did not show for the opening ceremony.

The whole garden party settled down to listen to the Oracle officially announce the opening of the week's worth of ceremonies with a toast.

"It is my honor to announce the official start of the Fertility Festival week. Here in Tenebrae we welcome the spring with expressions of love, and possession. While those from Niflheim cherish the blooming growth of flowers. Over the course of this week may Friendships blossom, and the lines that make our countries borders soften. Like water color paints on a canvas."

It was a simple, but effective speech. Lunafreya really had a powerful speaking voice. Enrapturing over half the crowd with her presence alone. The girl seemed to glow softly in the daylight. She went through a few more simple, announcements. Thanked the emperor and some others for helping make the current party happen. Then descended from the stage. Her brother leading her with one hand protectively.

Everyone clapped.Then a live band struck up some dancing music, and people gathered for the next activity.

"What do you want to be our next move?" Prompto asked Ignis. Taking out their compact and touching up their makeup.

Ignis watched the crowd. "We need to be introduced to Luna. The dance is a good opportunity for that. Since it lets people mingle." Ignis explained. Turning to look at Prompto, then shaking his head. "You already know all of this. Why am I even saying it out loud?"

Prompto flashed a teasing smile up at Ignis. "Maybe because I like to hear you explain things?"

It was Ignis' turn for his ears to turn red. He didn't know if Prompto was actually flirting with him, or just making fun of him. This was a dangerous game they were playing. Though that did not make it any less fun. It was kind of like the pun offs Ignis often had with Noctis. Only this left that bubbly feeling in his stomach. Which Ignis did not fully have time to process as his aunt interjected.

Aqua placed a hand on the back of Ignis' chair and the other on her round belly. "You two left with Pyrus. Where did he and Aquarius go? I can't believe they would miss the opening toast like that. It's incredibly rude."

Ignis knew he wasn't the best at being a teenager. However, he knew what a snitch was. "Oh. We kind of just lost track of one another. Sorry." Ignis lied, and then shrugged.

Aqua shook her head and turned to scan the crowd for her boys. The group of teenagers wasn't immediately visible from this area, since they were in the far back corner and behind a lot of the flower decorations.

"I'm sure they'll be around soon." Ignis assured his Aunt, "Me and Prompto were thinking of joining the dance." Ignis looked over to Prompto, who nodded with confirmation.

Aqua sighed, "Well, if you see them, tell them I would like a word. Pyrus needs to speak to some people. He's still young, but he will be holding the family title someday. You two be good." Aqua patted his shoulder then moved on. Continuing her search with a frown.

Prompto and Ignis watched her go. Prompto gave him a sideways look. Knowing he had just lied to his aunt's face. "So, to the Dance?"

Ignis looked up at over at the gathering crowd. "Sure. Let's go." He offered Prompto a gloved hand, which Prompto accepted with an exited grin. The two of them held hands as they made their way towards the dance floor. Their shared bracelets jangling as they went. Making Ignis feel like they were giddy, exited children who were up to no good.

The dances here were only a step above the dance they had participated in the other day. Nowhere near as formal as a full waltz, but with a lot more structure. This dance, the crossroad, was a structured opportunity for people to meet others who were not in their social circle. As the switching of dance partners meant the meeting of new people. With just enough time to exchange names or a conversation before moving on.

"Good. Looks like Lady Lunafreya is going to dance." Prompto noted, as they grabbed a spot on the dance floor. Which meant more than enough people would actually try to dance. Instead of just hanging around the sidelines and talking. "Oh man. What do I say if we end up dancing with each other? I'm going to make a fool of myself." Prompto whispered. Just enough of an edge to their voice that Ignis felt like this might be an actual fear of the spy's.

"You will be fine. You are quite capable." Ignis gave the gathering crowd an assessing look. With the pattern of the dance, and where the princess was situated. How she was standing with her brother, her dance partner. Many people thought that meeting on these dance floors was a gamble. However, if you were good enough with your math, you could get to where you needed. It was very much like counting cards- and Ignis vary rarely lost poker games.

"We need to switch. Can you start as the lead?" Ignis asked Prompto quickly, and turned the two of them around. Then moved them one dance space to their side. Before a different couple could take their position.

Prompto seemed surprised, but adjusted their hand positions and allowed Ignis to reorientation them. "Of course I can. Why?"

"Now I will be the one to dance with Luna." Ignis told Prompto with a smile, and then nodded towards the floor, "Look at the positions. Remember the dance pattern? Every three people you swap leads and change direction. Moving in a clockwise fashion, then counter. I'll dance with three, swap, then lead three and she will be my seventh dance partner."

"Oh." Prompto eyes the crowd with a critical look, then him with the same. "You are very smart."

"It's just math. Once you know what equation to use," Ignis trailed off, then shrugged. The music began, and Prompto stepped forward. Leading them into the steps. People were both supposed to both lead and follow in this dance. So Ignis took to following Prompto's steps without any issue. The two of them holding hands and stepping in a square pattern, while occasionally turning with the music.

"Anything You want me to convey to anyone I meet?" Prompto asked quietly. Under the music, and just audible to him. As they pushed in close and then pulled away.

"Just that I'm open to coming to the cocktail party." Ignis shrugged. "Anyone interesting who wants to talk with me, try to remember their name so I can make time later."

"Of course." Prompto nodded. Ignis had no worries that Prompto would be able to do just that. The two of them stepped apart. Arms as far as they could go from each other. Then then they both stepped further, and turned. Spinning away from another to find their new partners.

Ignis came face to face with the Niflheim Judge from earlier. "Your honor." Ignis dipped in a small bow.

The man returned the bow with a laugh. "I do have to say young man. You are a bit tall for us to be proper dance partners. Are you certain you are still growing?"

"We shall make it work." Ignis smiled, and the two joined hands. Beginning the steps of their dance. "You said earlier that you enjoy sports? I'm partial to Football of course. How about you?"

The two had a brief discussion, about which was better; Football or Rugby. The latter of which Ignis admitted was a bit too rough for his tastes. To which the judge suggested that Ignis look up a Niflheim sport; something called Hockey; before deciding that Rugby was the most dangerous official sport known to man.

They departed on good terms. Ignis' next dance partner was an unknown woman to him. They bowed and exchanged names. She seemed more interested in just dancing than talking. Which Ignis was fine with allowing. The pattern continued. After three partners he swapped, and found himself leading instead of following. His first partner was a Tenebrae woman who was the wife of a politician involved with trade. She declared her husband's interests in speaking with him later. However Ignis knew the name she was speaking of, and such a meeting was not immediately important for him. He did promise to try and meet up with him before the party was over, however.

Then Ignis turned to lead the second dance. Finding his partner to be a taller gentleman with long, wavy maroon hair. Ignis inhaled sharply. Then locked down on all of his outward emotions. As he took in the black jacket, mountain of scarves, and desiccated flower crown.

"Hello there!" The Chancellor of Niflheim stood before Ignis. With an air of surprise. Not bowing, but instead doing a theatrical wave of his arms. Presenting himself with a smile. One that made Ignis want to instinctively stab the man. "What a present surprise."

Ignis doubted that claim. There was just something about the Chancellor which felt entirely off. Wrong. Still, Ignis swallowed his fight or flight response, bowing politely as a greeting. He then stepped up for the dance. "Chancellor Izunia. It is an honor to meet you. My name is Ignis Scientia."

"Yes, I've heard." The Chancellor took Ignis' hands. Pulling him into the dance pattern. Ignis followed casually. The Chancellor's hands were cold. Even though Ignis was wearing his gloves, and the Chancellor his own fingerless ones, he could feel the chill. As well as the rough callous the man had built up. Ignis recognized the feeling. They reminded him of Regis' own hands, of Clarus, Gladio. Those were the callous of a swords master. Built up on hours upon days, years, spent holding a bladed weapon. Which was an interesting yet terrifying note to learn.

"The young refuge from Lucis. Returned at last. I do hope you are enjoying being home for the first time." The man spoke with an air of bite to his tone. Ignis had never met someone who smelled of trouble before. This man certainly did, however. In a concerning way. Ignis did not know what to do about it either.

"How are you finding yourself?" The Chancellor asked in a friendly enough manner.

"It has been very pleasant trip so far." Ignis returned cordially. "It has certainly been a wonderful opportunity to meet my extended family, after all these years. I have never gotten the chance to meet them before this week, you see. Without Niflheim's yearly ceasefire, I never might have gotten the opportunity."

"I am happy to hear that." The Chancellor's smile almost seemed genuine. Just for a second. Then it twisted into a look of almost pity. Mixed with some sort of hidden emotion Ignis could not place. "They say nothing drives family apart further than war."

Ignis tried to get a bead on the man he was dancing with him. There was something about the way he spoke that last part. Ignis hummed with curiosity. "Do you have relations in Lucis?"

The Chancellor's eyebrows raised up, as if he had not expected Ignis to connect those dots. Though Ignis couldn't imagine why. If the man spoke so clearly with double meanings, he should be used to people poking at his words. "Is that not who one often goes to war with?" Ignis asked the Chancellor giving him Ignis' own version of a dangerous smile, "Their family?"

The Chancellor slowed his dance motions by just half a step. Giving Ignis a fresh once over. The man looked as if he was actually being seen for the first time, and he clearly did not know how to feel about it. Interesting. Ignis had not known that the Chancellor was related to any of the Lucius upper class. Though, Ignis supposed it was not too far of a stretch. Certainly there had to have been marriages over the years.

"You must not have seen them for some time then." Ignis observed with a carefully neutral tone. Letting himself be known as someone who could also play games. Should the need arise. With people who were devious and, it was best to let them know from the start that you also played with knives.

"Oh. It's a very old connection," The Chancellor regained his footing. Speakign with a light hearted tone. "I barley doubt they even know I exist."

"You care for them though." Ignis didn't ask. It was an observation. His next words were a question. "Do they care for you?"

"I would say we both have our concerns." The man answered smoothly. Then he smiled, in a dangerous way. His eyes flashed, and Ignis noticed them for the first time. Golden more than anything. Almost amber.

Like Gladio's. Ignis kept his facial expressions under perfect control. There was only one blood line in Lucis which traditionally had amber eyes. The Amicitia's. Ignis felt his heart nearly claw up his throat. He didn't want to make assumptions. However, the evidence was right in front of him. A swordsman with golden eyes? Yeah there were legends about those traits for a reason.

"Enough about my troubles though. I wanted to discuss you," The Chancellor inhaled, and then exhaled mournfully, "Sadly it seems we are almost out of time."

Ignis noticed this too, that their moment to dance was just about up. "Perhaps we can catch up later then?" Ignis found himself offering. He certainly didn't like or trust the man all that much. However his entire purpose for coming that weekend was to meet people. To make connections. Certainly it couldn't hurt to try and at least be friendly.

The Chancellor gave him a curious sort of consideration. "Very well then. I hope to see you later." The man went through the last motion of the dance with a spin. Ignis sent the Chancellor off to their next dancing partner. While Ignis turned and greeted his next one.

His next dance partner was a Plump Tenebrae woman with platinum brown hair, pushed up on both sides into a Mohawk. Her arms were painted with brown vines, and there was an attempt to give said branches leaves, though whoever had done the art was clearly not very skilled with the medium.

"Well. You're the first one he hasn't driven to tears." The woman observed with surprise. Taking Ignis' hands and holding them tightly. The woman had an air of warmth and reassurance "Come darling. Are you alright?"

"Is that so?" Ignis asked curiously. Leading the first few steps of the dance. "I guess it is quite unnerving. Dancing with a country leader." Ignis mused. Though he did not think that was the case at all. No just a quick glance over his shoulder, and he was quite certain the Chancellor was purposefully terrifying his new dance partner with smiles and his biting tone. The blonde woman whom had been behind Ignis as they wove through the dance looked like she wanted to crawl into a hole and cry. Which. Fair.

"I don't think that's the case at all." The woman scowled, Ignis was reminded of the mother ice-ursa which had been featured on the documentary he had watched recently. "I will have to have a word with that man after all of this."

"Well. He probably has it coming." Ignis joked humorously.

"Oh he's going to get it." The woman scowled over towards the maroon haired man.

Ignis silently wished her luck. He asked the woman for her name, it was Kara. They wished each other well before they parted ways.

Ignis had one more dance until he met with Luna. He turned. Finding his new partner once again to be somewhat of a surprise. A stiff no-nonsense person standing at parade rest. Dressed in an Imperial military jacket. A teenager the same age as him.

"My name is Lieutenant Colonel Loqi Tummelt." The teen couldn't have been any older than Ignis. Shorter, just enough that Ignis had to look down at them. Though not nearly as short as Prompto was.

This was the person Pyrus' friend group complained about, Ignis registered. The one they all hate.

Ignis could see why. Loqi spoke with a brisk no-nonsense tone. Not even attempting to dance with Ignis. Instead he stood stiffly in space with his arms behind his back. Leaving enough room for others to move around him. A true 'stick in the mud.' Even though he was clearly just doing his duty. Ignis knew what protection detail at an event like this would entail. It was Gladio and his entire job. A simple party was no excuse to drop one's guard.

"You are to dance with the Oracle next." Loqi informed him, "You are to not to touch her. You will only step in time with one another. You will address her by her grace. If you try anything. Myself, and the MT Units standing by will take you out back and deal with you. Permanently. This is your only warning."

Ignis didn't doubt the man for a second. He looked over Loqi's shoulder toward the MT Units standing by at the edge of the crowd. Standing at a parade rest. The robots were there to be intimidating and remind people of their place. However the effect was lost Ignis, and probably only Ignis. When he looked over, one of the MTs was bouncing on their heels excitedly. Having noticed him, and Ignis looking over at them. Their partner subtly kicked them in their shin. Reminding them to calm down.

"I understand." Ignis turned back to Loqi with a straight face.

"Good." Loqi said, and then stood there somewhat awkwardly. Trying to force the demeanor of someone who was not to be crossed or messed with. However there was no changing the fact that Loqi was fifteen, perhaps even sixteen years of age.

They still had at least another two minutes before they switched partners.

"Lieutenant Colonel is quite the rank for someone of our age." Ignis commented in a friendly manner, standing at a comfortable parade rest. As everyone danced around them. "I am impressed, Congratulations."

Loqi shot him a look with his piercing blue eyes. As if he were trying to discern if Ignis was making fun of him. "You are the Lucian Crowns-guard Officer; are you not?"

"I am." Ignis confirmed, "Ignis Scientia. Third Officer. A pleasure to meet you."

"You barley look battle tested." Loqi crossed his arms and turned up his nose. "Why would they make you an Officer?"

"You would be correct in that assumption." Ignis wasn't going to even try denying the fact. He knew his own history, and he knew that the soldier types like Loqi hated noblemen who were just given ranks. Even though Ignis had fully earned his. Just in a different manner. "I have never been on the field officially. The title was given to me for almost purely logistical reasons." Ignis smiled, but forced it into a grimace. "They wanted me to do all the paperwork you see."

Loqi snorted, as if Ignis had only confirmed a suspicion. "It figures. Moving up in the Niflheim army is much more of an honor. We do not just give out ranks due to blood ties." Loqi said, puffing out his chest.

"I would not argue with you at all on this point. Our militaries certainly operate on different fundamental levels." Ignis acknowledged. The Lucis Kingdom was known for focusing on having well trained, well decorated higher ranks. Which meant putting children of noble rank on the fast track with specialty training. Making sure they grew up to be good leaders, and know what they were doing. Dratos was one such example. He was the shining example of what a good military school background could produce.

In contrast everyone in the Niflheim army started off at the same level. Boot camp. With people only being able to rise in rank by proving themselves. Either in victorious battle, or the large scale fighting competitions they occasionally staged. Their current military leader, General Glauca, had supposedly come out of nowhere in one of these tournaments. Defeating everyone single handedly, and remaining untouched ever since.

Ignis personally thought Niflheim's system was a strange and chaotic messy way to go about things. However, there was no denying the fact that it got results. General Glauca was undeniably a terrifying war leader. Ignis just assumed this was yet another cultural difference between nations.

"Do you even know how to wield a weapon?" Loqi asked him critically. On a surface level it sounded like he was trying to pick a fight with Ignis. However Ignis did not think that was the teenager's intention. his attitude was very different from Pyrus' friend. Loqi just seemed to have one of those natural argumentative tones. Ignis wondered if that another reason why none of the Tenebrae teenagers liked him. Ignis decided to give Loqi a chance though. He was there to make connections after all. Who better to make them with, than someone his in charge of Lunafreya's safety?

"I am a capable warrior in my own right. Perhaps we can have a sparing match at some time?" Ignis suggested. Playing to what Ignis saw as a competitive nature.

Loqi seemed flattered by the offer. "I would not be opposed. Are you free tomorrow morning?"

Ignis mentally went through what events he was currently attending, "Relatively." He had training practice with his Grandmother of course. But after that he was free until that evening's Opera.

"There's an event for the blooming festival down by the docks. We could meet up then."

"At the may pole?" Ignis ventured a guess. He wondered what event they would be holding. "Certainly. I can be there around ten o'clock. It could be fun."

"You sure about that?" Loqi snorted with amusement. "Most people Tenebrea nobles aren't too interested in joining in on the Niflheim festivities."

"I see no reason not too give it a go at least once." Ignis admitted, and then gestured around, "All of this very new to me. After all."

"Well, we will see how you do." Loqi tilted his head up with a nod. Loqi checked behind him. It seemed their time was coming to an end.

Loqi appraised, Ignis once more. "Remember. No touching."

"Of course." Ignis nodded Loqi as a farewell.

Then he turned. Stepping up to wait patiently for the ethereal Oracle to come to him. She turned into his space. Like a hand on a clock. Rotating with the rest of the dancing crowd. Then she was there. Ignis had to take a fraction of a second to actually process Lunafreya's appearance. Because up close Ignis realized that Luna was actually glowing. That wasn't just the light, or Ignis imagining things. A white cloud radiated off of her. Like a soft night light, or a string of fairy lights.

LunafreyaSmiling at him warmly, as if she had known this moment was always going to be, and she was ready for it. "You must be Ignis Scientia."

Lunafreya was a similar age to Ignis. Though she was slightly older. Something he had never realized until now. Another teenager filling the shoes of a proper young adult. Forced to grow up just as quickly as the rest of us. Ignis thought somewhat soberly.

"Your Grace." Ignis bowed low to one knee, as was proper and expected.

"Thank you. Please, rise." Luna said with the air of someone who was long used to such things. Though not in a haughty way. She waited until Ignis was standing before speaking. "Prince Noctis has often written of you." Luna stepped backwards. Doing the first motions for the dance they were to have. While keeping her hand politely clasped in front of her. "It is nice to meet you in person at last."

"Thank you." Ignis stepped forward, and then to the side. Keeping his hands behind his back. As the two of them moved through the steps of the dance. Without touching one another. "Prince Noctis speaks of you fondly as well."

Luna glanced to their side, and raised her eyebrows as if to gesture in said direction. "It speaks more of your character. That you have managed to hold a conversation with the Lieutenant Colonel. My brother's best friend does not often warm up to people so readily."

Ignis took this as an encouraging sigh, "I have been told before that for someone of Tenebrae, I am much to friendly. Which baffles me."

Luna laughed. It was quiet, but well intentioned. "That is not a bad trait to have. Believe you me."

Ignis smiled. Then realized that he had nothing else to say. He had Noctis' gift to give her of course. Though that would be inappropriate to give to her at the moment. Gifts were not to be given during dances. Especially when she would probably be seeing a handful more people before it was through. None of what Ignis had planned for the week was hinged on Lunafreya. Not him feeling out new political ties. Nor Prompto's spy mission. There was Noctis' strange dream; now that Ignis recalled. The man who had lost his wife and dreamed of a tree. He doubted Luna would be able to help him with that, however.

So instead of speaking the two of them danced with one another. Actually putting some energy into the steps and spinning around one another. Without touching, of course. Ignis recalled the other day, how Prompto had added extra motions to their dance in order to make other laugh. In a similar spirit, Ignis added a few small half steps which went along with the music. Luna flashed him a smile that was less proper and more genuine fun. Which was a victory in Ignis' book. Then she mimicked his additions. Then added a twist of her own. This evolved until neither of them were actually dancing to the music or dance they were supposed to be doing. The two of them just having fun and doing their own thing.

"It is good to have a friend." Luna laughed again, this time a bit more openly. As their time came to an end. "I would be much glad to speak with you some more."

"Of course." Ignis agreed.

"Are you coming to the Cocktail party this evening?" Luna asked curiously.

"I plan too." Ignis admitted. "I hear that invitations are hard to come by though."

"Unfortunately." Luna was smiling like she was amused. "Being invited is a bit of a conundrum you see."

"Truly?" Ignis furrowed his brow.

"The catch is." Luna checked in with Loqi before stepping just a bit closer to Ignis. Careful not to touch him. But whispering into his ear. "There are no invitations."

Ignis blinked. Coming from anyone else, he would have not believed it. Ignis did not think Lunafreya of all people would lead him astray however.

"You are to just show up." Luna shared a small smile with Ignis, that might as well have been a giggle. "Where you need to go. Now that is a whole other puzzle." She stepped back. "It is in the spirit of the festival you see. I shall speak with you then?"

"Yes. Of course." Ignis hoped that he would be able to. He would have to find this location. This certainly put a twist on things.

"Farewell for now then." Lunafreya stepped back. Their shared moment of the dance coming to an end.

Ignis hoped he could make do on said promise. "I look forward to it."

He felt a little dazed as he moved on. Having so many important conversations in a row, things were hard to keep track of. His next dance partner did not seem happy to be following up the Oracle herself. Probably having wanted to speak with her instead. Though they put up with it through politeness.

Ignis danced with two more people after Luna. Then the rotation of the dance ended with him back with Prompto, his original partner. The blonde smiled at him in greeting, and informed him of three interesting people he had met on his own journey, who were interested in meeting Ignis. Then the song came to an end, and people were allowed to leave the dance floor, trade out positions, or trade partners if they so desired. Luna stayed in with her brother and Loqi for the next dance. Meaning most everyone else did as well. Usually Ignis would have continued on for another dance or two. However he was starting to feel the mountain he had climbed that morning; and the day was far from over.

Ignis was also feeling a little light headed. Which might have been starting to show, as Prompto placed a hand on his upper arm, frowning with concern. "Hey. You don't look so steady. What's up?"

"I need to take a break." Ignis admitted, "Perhaps it is best if I sit and eat something for a time."

"Sounds about right. You're running on no food, and half a cup of campaign." Prompto reminded him. Reaching out and pulling him by the wrist. "Come on, lets get some snacks."

"I am?" Ignis blinked. He hadn't realized. That was right. He had not eaten breakfast that morning. Six, his jog this morning felt like it was weeks ago. He let Prompto pull him up to one of the food tables. "Anyway. I have some important news." He lowered his voice. "I danced with the Chancellor."

"I am genuinely sorry to hear that." Prompto gave him a look of pity, as they came up to the food bar. "I hear he's the worst." Prompto put a plate in his hands. Ignis held the plate, while Prompto started loading it up with a little bit of everything. Ignis filled Prompto in on the conversation he had shared with the leader of Niflheim. How the man had seemed interested in talking with him. How that could be a good thing, a bad thing, or a dangerous thing. Ignis of course couldn't go into detail about his related-to-Gladio-theory. No, there were too many people listening in. and Ignis didn't want to start rumors.

Prompto listened and seemed to understand what Ignis was going for. That Ignis would need a good approach to make sure things went favorably. Less he get wrapped up in the Chancellor's games. Prompto delicately put the last food piece from the buffet onto Ignis' plate. Setting the tongs back onto the platter. "You know. I've been around similar men once or twice." Prompto said in such a way that Ignis could safely assume that he was talking about being around the Chancellor specifically. This boggled Ignis. Prompto was only thirteen. How long had they been a spy for? "Let me give you some advice."

The two of them made it back over to their sitting table. Ignis set down their shared food tray, and pulled out Prompto's chair for them. Prompto took the seat, but once Ignis himself was seated, Prompto scooted their chair closer to Ignis' side. Almost into Ignis' own chair. Forcing Ignis to raise up his left arm, or risk having it pinched between the chair backs. Prompto gave him a cautious look. As if to ask is this was okay? Then leaned forward. Resting one elbow and their chin on that to look at him. Like any typical girl might with their crush. Wrapping around him to trap all of their attention. Giving them, Ignis noted sourly, a fairly good bubble of privacy.

Ignis tensed at the invasion of space of course. However, Prompto very purposefully was not actually touching him. There was still plenty of clearance between their knees and feet. Ignis could feel the phantom of someone leaning into his side. Simply at the idea. Ignis had seen girls do this quite often enough to Gladio. Practically share a chair with him, or sit in his lap However, there was no pressure, no contact. Prompto was in his space, but still giving Ignis plenty of his own. Ignis gave the position some consideration, then slowly relaxed. Giving it a try. He laid his non-dominate arm across the back of Prompto's chair. Then adjusted his footing to give Prompto a bit more room. It wasn't bad. A little awkward, but that dissipated as Ignis became more familiar in it.

"So." Prompto whispered. Once they were certain that Ignis was fine with the position. They had to look up at Ignis as they spoke. Propping their chin up on the table. "The way I see it. Things could go either terribly bad, or surprisingly good. The Chancellor's a bit unpredictable. Doing anything with him is always a gamble." Prompto picked up some grapes from the plate, but didn't eat them. Instead rolling it between his finger like a marble. Ignis' mouth began to water at the thought of food. He picked up one of the sandwiches, and took a bite as he listened.

Prompto continued. "The man's loyalties are with Minister Besithia, who has the Emperor wrapped around his little finger. Or maybe Ardyn has them both on strings. Honestly, it would not surprise me if the three of them tied their wrist to each other then jumped into an ice flow. They are incredibly loyal to one another."

"Wait." Ignis paused Prompto just for clarification, "Is that not what Niflheim couples do for marriage? They tie their wrists together?"

Prompto rolled his grape back and forth across the table, "That's the analogy I'm going for. The three of them are the Niflheim government, Ignis. There's no secret there." Prompto shook their head, then checked their surroundings. Making sure the man himself wasn't walking up on them to listen into their conversation. "As far as the three go, the Chancellor is the most approachable. He's not completely unreasonable. However, his results vary wildly. He has murdered people before. Openly." Prompto leaned a bit closer, and lowered his voice, "Last year he walked into the council chambers and cut the head off one of the Niflheim nobles. Then made everyone sit through a whole day's worth of meetings with the corpse. To this day no one's exactly still sure why he did that. The guy likes to play with people. Get them all turned around, confused, doubting themselves."

Ignis frowned. Just from his short interaction with the Chancellor, he could see what Prompto meant with that last observation. The man certainly was looking to cause trouble. However when it came to the councilman issue, well. That was not exactly an unreasonable thing to happen as far as Ignis was concerned. The King had the authority to order the death of anyone. With no obligation to give an explanation to anyone. Councilmen over the years had been killed for a variety of reasons. Some of which were never disclosed, so as to save either the Crown or the dead's honor. The Chancellor wasn't a monarch. However, if he was close to the Emperor, he would have the authority to do it on behalf of the Emperor. The same way Ignis did for Noctis. That was the job after all. If Noctis told him to jump, he jumped. If his Prince ordered a kill, he killed. If there was a fire to be started, Ignis was supposed to show up with oil. He would have expected much the same of the Chancellor.

"The guy's not exactly the kind of person I am too interested in being around for too long. Too clever, you know?" Prompto admitted, "So talk to him if you want, but I will stay out of it."

"Fair enough." Ignis acknowledged. "If I do speak with him again, I will try to do so without you around. Or give you an excuse to leave."

"I'd appreciate that." Prompto rested their elbows on the table. Looking up at him, "Honestly. The best way to combat people like him, specifically, is open and honest with communication. He seems to thrive off people wanting to keep things secret. You know?"

Ignis could see that easily being a thing. "That means we need to keep an open line of communication then."

"Exactly." Prompto agreed. Then ate the grape they had been playing with. "So who else did you meet up with?" Prompto asked. "You know, besides Luna. The two of them took a small break from the party to eat some of the sandwiches and tea snacks provided for the party. Prompto only ate some of the fruits and vegetables. Ignis however ate the majority of the food Prompto had loaded the plate with. Not realizing how hungry he was, until he took his first bite of his sandwich. From that point on, Ignis had to hold himself back from scarfing down the food like the growing teenager he was. Exercising self-control and eating instead at a proper and polite pace. Which seemed to amuse Prompto immensely. It dawned on Ignis that the position they were sitting in was almost perfect for the blonde to feed him. Though the blonde didn't offer to do such a thing. Instead they stayed wrapped up in each other's personal spaces, without actually touching one another.

It was nice. The two of them discussed the party guests they had met, and whom Ignis ought to talk with again, who could wait until the cocktail party that night. That was when Ignis got around to Luna's reveal about how getting into the cocktail party worked. "You know who would have that information?" Prompto prompted, "Your Captain friend from the other day. His MTs are guarding the Princess, right? They would have to know the location of what parties she was going to."

"That's an idea." Ignis hummed with agreement. "I have yet to see him though."

Ventus joined them at the table then, a plate with some small foods in one hand, and a glass cup with red wine in the other. "Well you two seem to be getting along." Ventus observed. Giving Ignis in particular a raised eye brow. Ignis tried, but failed to keep his ears from turning red. Knowing exactly what his Uncle was on about. Ignis never let people close to him. Not unless they were Noctis or Gladio. Even then those were rare, private, moments. Yet here he was basically letting Prompto sit in his lap, at a public event. Even if there was no actual skin contact, for Ignis it might as well have been PDA. Ignis, somewhat ashamed, slid his arm off the back of Prompto's chair. Prompto likewise moved their chair out of his immediate space. Correcting their chair so that the two of them were sitting together politely.

Ventus cleared his throat, and seemed somewhat apologetic for breaking them up. setting his food down. "So. How have things been for you guys?"

"Pretty good." Prompto answered first. "Did some dancing. Spoke to people."

Ignis found his voice. "I have made all the appropriate introductions, as well as made a few other acquaintances."

"He's making friends with everyone." Prompto rolled their eyes, "He is alarmingly good at that."

"I fail to see how this is a bad thing." Ignis pointed out.

"It isn't. That is a good thing. Very good." his Uncle nodded encouragingly. "Better to open doors than close them. You know that though; so I'll spare you the speech." Ventus waved dismissively. "I just needed a moment to sit and not be pestered by people for a moment." Ventus admitted. He tilted his wine glass over towards the speaking area. "Six, look at your Aunt. She's going to kill someone." He chuckled. Across the table area, there was a line of woman all taking turns to fawn over the pregnant woman. Aqua had a polite smile on her face, but she looked quite ready to be done with their attention. Frigor looked like he had been trying fruitlessly for a few minutes to pull her away. To little success.

"The lesser nobles swarm us like flies at this event I swear." Ventus sighed, "Though I guess that's because most of them won't have enough clout to go to any other events. So it is one of the few chances they get to shake hands."

Ignis gave his Uncle a sideways look. "Speaking of events. Do you know where the cocktail party will be happening tonight?"

Ventus raised his eyebrows and tilted his wine glass. "Oh. You've figured that out already? You are either as clever as I raised you to be- or some~one's telling secrets.~"

Ignis leaned forward and gave his Uncle a smile. "Well then it's a good thing you raised me. So are you going to tell us the location? Or will we have to go find it ourselves?"

"You're missing information." Ventus leaned back in his chair, "There are actually several Cocktail parties, and then even some after parties to the cocktail ones. Though you two are much too young for those." Ventus waved his finger once, using a very strict parental tone. Forbiding Ignis to attend them. "Which party you go to all depends on which social circle you want to run. Who you want to actually do buisness with."

"We need the one Lunafreya is going to." Ignis decided immediately, "The Prince has a gift he wants me to give to her; and I suspect the Chancellor will also go to that one."

"The Chancellor?" Ventus tensed, "What about him?"

"We met while we were dancing." Ignis explained, "He seemed determined to continue our conversation. Apparently I've gotten his attention."

Ventus guarded his expression. Putting forth an icy resting face. A sign to anyone who knew his uncle that he was actually feeling several things.

"Oh. Wow. Is that where you get it from?" Prompto asked looking between the two of them. Impressed.

"What is wrong?" Ignis asked his Uncle.

Ventus set down his glass. Far enough a way that Ignis knew he was not going to finish the drink. As if the taste of the conversation had spoiled it. "Chancellor Izunia. Is not exactly a friend of the Scientia Family." Ventus explained. His voice level and controlled. He was merely commenting on the state of things. There was clearly a lot more going on underneath this sentiment.

"I see." Ignis should have assumed as much. One did not have their homeland invaded, and immediately make friends with their new oppressors he assumed.

"Objectively," Ventus leaned back in his chair, crossing his ankles, "I do think becoming familiar with the man would not be a bad thing. As the Prince's Advisor, knowing how people might think or act is your duty. Being familiar with the leaders of other nations is especially a requirement. Personally however..." Ventus grimaced, "As your caretaker; I would not want you anywhere near the man."

Ignis felt like that was a fair judgment. "I will be careful."

"I do not think that any amount of caution would be able to keep you safe. So long as that man is interested in playing with you." Ventus warned seriously, "Don't be cautious, or reactive. Meet him on your terms only. The two of you are already dancing with knives my boy. Be ready." Ventus warned with a serious tone.

Ignis nodded, showing that he would take the advice seriously. It was a little daunting. However Ignis had been preparing for such things since he was a child. If he wasn't ready now, he would never be.

"Also. Do not let Mama know that he spoke with you." Ventus added on a bit more casually, "If she knew that he approached you, she would definitely try to murder him. Again."

"Again?" Ignis asked with surprise. "They have fought before?" That must have been one hell of a fight.

Ventus looked at Ignis dryly, conveying his internal suffering. "Twice. Thankfully the Chancellor seemed to find it more amusing than as a personal offense, and it didn't escalate the war."

Prompto shifted suddenly with surprise. Pressing both hands to the table surface. Starring off into a memory. "Wait. Wait. Wait. That was the Lady Scientia? Like. She was the one who challenged him to that duel?"

"You've heard about this?" Ignis turned to them curiously.

Prompto looked at Ignis with shock. As if they didn't know how Ignis could not have heard about these events. "Dude. They caused a rock slide that buried a whole school."

Ventus grimaced, "Yeah. That's actually what got them to stop fighting."

"I see." Ignis once again wasn't all that surprised to hear this. When you got to a certain point in fighting abilities, collateral damage was just a given. That was why people like the King, his Shield, and even the Marshal did not participate in sparing matches. They had no way to hold back. Noctis wasn't even fully trained yet, his spells were already something they needed to be careful with. Ignis and Gladio were blessedly immune to the destruction such spells caused. Which was one of the benefits of sharing their souls with Noctis. Still. It was not exactly a pleasant experience. Being caught up in a firestorm, or used as an electric conduit. Gladio claimed that of the three, ice was the worst. However Ignis had yet to experience being frozen, blessedly. They always had to make sure the training field was fully clear before practicing. Just to keep people from walking in and accidentally getting hurt.

"I will keep this in mind." Ignis pushed his glasses up, and got the conversation back on topic. "So, which party do you think the Oracle will attend?"

"I know of two different cocktail party locations," Ventus admitted, "but I don't know which one specifically the Oracle will be attending. Usually people exchange code words to indicate such things."

"Fun, what are the key words?" Prompto asked.

"One of the locations is defined by talking about cardinal directions; the other is mentioning a cross word puzzle. However, no one needs to speak those words directly. Asking outright is considered to be quite undignified."

Ignis frowned and thought back to his conversation with Lunafreya. "I do not think she mentioned either of these."

Ventus hummed, "Then we need to find someone who might know her schedule. I doubt you will be able to speak with her again."

Prompto elbowed the side of Ignis' chair pointedly. "We should go find your Captain."

"Captain?" Ventus frowned curiously.

"Yes, the Niflheim soldier, from when I fell off the ship." Ignis explained, "Captain Lacertosus. He's here."

"Really?" Ventus blinked, "The world really is small. I did not recognize him when I was walking around. I would have thanked him for the other day if I had."

"We have not seen him either, but he should be in attendance." Prompto explained, "The MT units guarding the Oracle are his."

Ventus looked over at one of the units, near the dancing area. "How did you know they are the same MTs? They all look the same to me."

"We saw them getting painted yesterday." Ignis explained, "The Captain seems amiable enough. Though I have not seen him around either. I suspect he is on duty."

"Oh! Then I know exactly where he is." Ventus declared brightly, "Come." He knocked on the table once then stood up from his seat. The three of them left the center table and began making their way across the garden.

They did not make it too far before being approached. "Ambassador. It is good to see that you have made it home once again." A woman with dark skin and a smile which was mostly teeth appeared. She was painted with bright baby blue flowers and shimmering silver dots. "And I see you have brought a new family member into the business."

"Anita of Stila. Yes, it is always a delight to see you. This is my nephew, Ignis." Ventus greeted. Then introduced Ignis to the woman. Anita Dust; a noble woman from West Tenebrae. The three of them exchanged pleasantries. Getting a feel and idea about what the other was about. Anita was apparently there for his uncle though. She turned her attentions back to Ventus. Discussing some matters of trade, and a port on the west coast needing funding for an upgrade. Once the woman was satisfied with what answers Ventus could give her, they parted ways.

"Sorry. Where were we?" Ventus asked the two teens waiting patently at his elbow, then looked forward without an answer from either of them. "Right. Yes." He walked them up to a buffet grabbing a whole tray of sandwiches unabashedly. He handed this off to Ignis, and picked up two drinks from the drink tray. One a red wine, the other an amber drink the Niflhiem nobles seemed to favor. He then led them out the side entrance in between two stone columns draped with flowers. There was a hedge mage before them. With a few guests from the party milling about. Using the area to have more private conversations. Or in some cases private moments.

Ignis advereted his gaze from one kissing couple, and gave his Uncle a doubtful look. "Where are we going exactly?"

"Knowing the layout of a location is important my boy." Ventus gave him a wink. Then led them along the stone wall of the Leviathan garden, instead of into the hedge maze itself. There was a gap through there. Almost completely obscured by ivy. Which led into a grassy field. An in-between space around the proper gardens. With a pop-up canvas awning for shade. As well as more than a few tables covered with machines. Their wires running out the backs like a stream of plastic. All snaking over to a junction box next to a wooden pole with a junction box on it.

"Hault." A mechanical voice commanded them immediately. It was an MT unit held up a hand in a stopping motion.

"Hello." Ventus was not too caught off guard by the MT Unit's presence. He paused, smiled and did not show fear. "We brought drinks and food. Where's your Captain?"

The MT unit stared at them. Completely silent. With unblinking red eyes. More of a statue than the plant covered statue beside it. Ignis noted that this Unit was not painted. The thing stood before them uncannily still. As if it was awaiting orders.

A raspy but loud voice drifted out from under the awning. Another MT Unit appeared, this one painted over with flowers. "You brought us food!? Fuck yeah!"

"Ling, what have I told you about language!" An even more human voice snapped, and out from under the tent emerged a large man. Dressed in Niflheim military formals. Just as Ravus, Loqi, and several other Imperial officers had been. Though the man had unbuttoned his out jacket, to reveal a tight, black undershirt.

"Oh Captain! My Captain!" Ventus called out, and then lifted up the drinks in his hand. "I come bearing gifts. Are you a red wine or a cider kind of a person?"

Lacertosus scowled at Ignis' Uncle. Recognizing him, as well as Ignis and Prompto at his side. The man's eyes landed on each of them. Becoming more suspicious with each of them. "The Scientia family? How did you know about this location?"

"An old friend of mine used to run security for these events all the time." Ventus explained. "I noticed a few years back that the Empire was using the same set up. Which makes sense- the Oracle Gardens were built with security in mind. Why not use what was built for it? Anyway."

Ventus lifted up the cups once more, "I wanted to thank you for the other day. Would you mind us coming over for a chat?"

Ling elbowed his superior officer none to subtly. "I'm starving. You should say yes."

Lacertosus gave his subordinate a scowl, then commanded the silent of the two MT Units to stand down. "Let them through. I am choosing to trust you three." Lacertosus warned them all, "Don't make me regret it."

"Are intentions are nothing but genuine." Ventus promised. Which was true.

The MT Unit before them lowered their hand. Letting them pass. It did not turn to watch them as they passed. Starring straight ahead at the entrance once more. Ignis gave it a concerned look.

"Don't worry about the stiff." The MT unit named Ling, waved him into the tent. "He's just standing guard."

"I see. Pardon us then." Ignis half-smiled at the silent Unit, as he stepped into the shade with the others.

The canvas shelter offered a decent amount of shade. Though for how tall Lacertosus was, the space felt a little cramped. There were two fold out tables shaped into an L along the perimeter of the awning. With cameras and security monitoring equipment spread out over the surfaces. As well as some clip boards and note pads notes spread about. One of which was a binder containing the guest list, paired off with pictures of faces.

Lacertosus moved to the far side of the tent, and picked up a radio receiver. "All clear. Just some wayward party guests. Over." The blonde man reported. There was a reply, from a distorted voice which affirmed with audible unhappiness. Lacertosus ignored it though. Setting the receiver down.

"Well. Welcome to the security point." Lacertosus greeted them, gesturing for them to make themselves comfortable. Sitting down in his own chair. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"I just wanted an opportunity to thank you for the other day." Ventus slid into the conversation as smoothly as he slid into the chair in front of Lacertosus. "Since my boy Ignis would have spent the majority of this trip in the hospital without you, or your men." He offered Lacertosus his choice of drink. "I know how boring security detail can be. So I thought sharing a drink, and having a conversation might be a good first step in paying forward the favor."

Lacertosus gave him a cautious look, but he accepted the wine glass. "Thank you." "So. How long have you been stationed in Fenestala?" Ventus asked, crossing one leg over his knee. Taking a sip of the cider glass and then balancing it on his knee. The two slipping into polite conversation.

Meanwhile Ling cleared off a corner of a table for Ignis to set the food platter down on. "Thanks for bringing these. Event detail sucks." the MT said with a raspy voice.

"It's no issue." Ignis told him amiably. Placing the platter down. "I'm just pleasantly surprised I got to see you all again."

Ling half-laughed, "Yeah we'll see how long that 'pleasently' lasts." He reached up and splayed a hand over his unmoving face. Which disconnected with a click. Revealing a dark skinned figure underneath. However the skin tone was not of any natural shade. It was dark, and pulled tight. Like the skin of Ling's face had been tanned and dried out over a long period of time. The meat of his face was sunken in horribly. Showing off more of a skeleton than an actual face. Ling had no nose. The orifice was sunken in and shriveled. It was a shocking sight to see. Ling looked more like some of the older, fully preserved corpses kept in memorial at the Ossuaries. Unlike those mummified remains, however; Ling's eyes were still intact. There was no white sclera. Only black. With a glowing red ring around an even darker pupil. Like a demon's.

Ignis felt all of his humanly instincts crawl up his spine at the sight. As well as the buzzing of Noctis' magic in his chest. Which clearly sensed the demonic nature of the man. Ignis was surprised at the latter, but he felt like he shouldn't be. Everyone knew that the MT units were the product of demon experimentation. He had read the reports about Cor's suspicion on human experimentation as well. It was something else to see it before him though.

There was an intelligence in Ling's eyes though. One Ignis could recognize. The MT was testing him for a reaction. Just like all of the politicians and officials back in the party were. Unlike the party; Ignis didn't quite know what reaction Ling was looking for though. He could only take a guess.

Ignis kept his horror and surprise contained. His face a neutral, icy facade. His tone was polite and monitored. "Perhaps. Meeting new people and extending trust is always a bit of a risk. We shall see what time brings."

Ling watched him, and took a bite of his sandwich thoughtfully.

"Hey, make sure to share those." Lacertosus ordered from the other side of the awning.

"I will, after I eat my own. I'm starving." Ling snapped right back. Like any normal soldier would to an officer they were familiar with. He took another bite of his sandwich . Then pulled a phone out from under the arm of his sleeve of his armor. Sending a quick text message.

Ling chewed thoughtfully. Giving Ignis a look. "What was your name again kid?"

"Ignis Scientia. It's nice to meet you officially."

Ling eyed him, then smirked. "You're clearly not from Tenebrae. You're much too friendly."

"People keep saying that." Ignis half-laughed, adjusting his glasses. "I was raised in Insomnia. The Lucis capitol."

"Interesting." Ling crossed one arm over his chest and then looked over at Prompto. "And this is your... escort?" Ling's easy smile turns into a frown. One which had an aftertaste of surprise.

There is a long moment of silence. Where Ignis could feel Prompto growing tense at his side. Not in an immediately noticeable way. No, it was gradual. The longer the silence went, the more Prompto seemed to raise their guard. Like they were preparing for Ling to say something, or perhaps even lash out physically. To the point that Ignis found himself standing in between the two. Nervously looking between them.

Had Ling noticed that Prompto wasn't a girl? Or that they were covering up their freckles with makeup? Neither of which were a crime, and could easily be explained. Though for someone running security at an event like this it certainly would raise some red flags. Ignis did worry however that there was perhaps something more though. Was Prompto's description known to these Niflheim soldiers? Were they about to have their cover blown?

Then Ling snorted. Snapping the tension like a rubber band. It was a raspy and wheezy sort of noise. "They make all kinds now, do they?"

Prompto's silence hung between them. A tangible, physical thing. Which the blonde swallowed whole. Giving Ling a rough, but friendly smile. "Sure. That's one way to put it. I'm Byrra."

Ling shook his head with disbelief. "I see. You," Ling waved his sandwich, not quite looking like he knew how to put his next words, "Might want to leave before the others get here." Ling warned, somewhat dismissively. By his tone Ignis leaned more towards this being an issue regrading Prompto's gender. "I'm not the only one's who's going to notice."

Ignis felt something dark and ugly rising in his chest. He imagined if he had claws, he might have bared them. "Why? Is there going to be a problem?" Ignis asked as politely as he could while also conveying a threat. Ling raised his free hand, as if to say that he meant nothing offensive by his statement. However Prompto cut in. Their voice calm and steady. "They would know eventually." Prompto gave Ling a look. Which the other returned. The two had a whole conversation. While Ignis held himself back. Finally Ling leaned back, as if surprised. Giving Prompto a new sort of consideration. Red eyes flicking down then up. "Alright then." Ling looked behind them and then took a bite of his sandwich, "Well this is your last chance." He advised. A group five MT Units all circled from around the corner. All of them painted with the same green vines, flowers and story book birds. They were all talking with each other quietly, jokingly. Like any group of friends might. Though their movements were much noticeably jerkier than a normal human's. Abrupt, less refined. Like their joints were not connected properly. The shortest of them was the first to notice that they had guests waiting for them. Stopping in their tracks. "Yo!" A sharp voice carried across the courtyard space. Like a cracking of a whip. Readily recognizable. "It's you guys again!" Despite how defensive Ignis was being of Prompto at the moment, Ignis let a smile appear on his face. Ignis raised a hand in greeting. "Edward! Is that you?" One of the MT Units replied jokingly with a raspy voice, which Ignis could not hear from this distance. Edward turned to them, and shoved them outright. The MT unit flailed with surprise and then fell over into the grass. Armor clanking as they went. "Respect the lower center of gravity!" Edward pointed down at them. While all the others laughed. Helping their comrade up. Edward approached them at a jog. Which was lopsided, favoring his mechanic leg. The MT joined them in the shade. Opening their arms in greeting. "Alphonse is going to be pissed. He's on floor duty right now. He's been wanting to say hi ever since you guys got out of the car." "We're going to rotate everyone out here in a few minutes." Lacertosus informed Ed. From where he was still watching the monitors while conversing with Ventus. "Give everyone a small break." "Okay. I'll take the floor if I can. It's fucking boring back here." Edward reached up, and took off his face plate. Then his helmet. A wave of gold cascaded out of it. All loosely held together by a hair tie, which was out of place, along with a good section of his hair.

"One moment. I've been needing to fix this for a while now. Kinda hard to do when we're standing around in the shade." Edward winced. Gathering up his long hair, he combed it out with his fingers, then braided it. Throwing the lot over one shoulder with familiar ease. This was interesting to watch; because Edward seemed to have a similarly extreme dehydrated existence as Ling did. With blackened skin and sunken flesh. Even though his hair was thick, and such a bright color. Almost the exact same shade as Prompto's was. Like gold straw. Ignis supposed he should just get used to the nightmarish forms. As the other four MTs arrived at that point. Each taking off their helmets and face plates once they were under the shade. Each of them revealing more of the same, dark mummified appearance. Ignis was in a cramped space. Surrounded by demon-scourged-humans. All with red glowing eyes, and brilliant golden blonde hair. Though not all of them removed their helmets. It was like something straight out of his worst nightmares. Yet Ignis didn't even feel slightly on edge. As each of the MT units introduced themselves by name, with a ready friendliness. All of them seemed genuinely exited to see Ignis once again, and to get to know him. If anything they were a bit overwhelmingly happy. Quickly giving Ignis the impression that the MTs didn't often get to meet new people. Especially when they saw that Ignis had brought his Uncle, and they latched onto him just as eagerly.

Ignis did notice that more than one of the MTs stopped to stare at Prompto for a good long moment. More than a few of them even started to say something. Until Ling elbowed them hard in the side or interrupted them pointedly. They all seemed incredibly surprised by Prompto's cross dressing. However none of them seemed to have an actual issue with it. Once they initial shock was past. Prompto's own threatening smiles , telling them not to say anything helped to keep the topic out of conversation, as well as Ling's hovering. Something Ignis kept an eye on the entire time. Ready to jump to his friends defense if need be. All of the MTs were incredibly impressed with the paint Prompto sported at least. Which made for an interesting conversation. "You did the circles yourself?" "Of course he did. No huma- I mean it takes a really steady hand to do something like that." "This design is so cool. Maybe we should try something like it next year." "Not those colors though. I like the nature stuff we do." "I love your patterns though." Prompto returned the complicments, "You guys look like something straight out of those old a fairy tails." Meanwhile Ignis was talking with Edward, Envy and another MT named Wrath about the curious names some of the Units had. Learning how the Units had all decided to name themselves after characters from their favorite book series. A Niflheim story about two brothers looking for some sort of magic stone. "It was one of the books. Lacertosus gave us when he first became our Captain." Envy explained, "Really nice of him, to give us something to do in our down time. Usually we were just ordered to stand in corners and be quite." "I imagine that was quite boring." Ignis gave Captain Lacertosus a sideways glance from across the tent. He kept picking up on cues in how the MTs mentioned certain things. Which was giving Ignis the suspicion that before the MTs had been put under the Captain's command, they had not been treated all that well. Old rumors of how cruel Niflheim could be swirled around his head. Even though most of those rumors had probably been propaganda.

People were people, no matter which side of a war they were on. Ignis reminded himself. Individuals could be cruel however. Ignis only had to look at Ling's face to now that whoever was leading the MT experiments was quite possibly even a monster. Though such things would not keep Ignis from treating the MT units any differently. no. Different did not make people less. Just as Ignis had told Prompto the other day.

"I should look up this book series. It sounds very interesting," Ignis spoke with Edward like he was any other person. "It's a classic in Niflheim. But not like, a literary classic. More just sort of popular with our generation." "How old are you guys?" "We're all twenty nine." "Thirty here in three months." "Already?"

"You all have the same birthday?" Ignis wondered if they had all chosen to pick the same day. The MTs introduced themselves as brothers. It seemed fitting.

"Yup. Good old tube flushing day." Envy said with a grin. Edward made a noise of disgust. Wrath shook his head.

Unfortunately the visit couldn't last for too long. Lacertosus announced after fifteen minutes that it was time for all the soldiers to switch out and let the others on break. Ling was the only one who stayed, since he was stationed in the tent itself.

"Why does he get to stay in the shade?" Envy wined, as the MTs all put their helmets and face plates back on. None of them had dared to step out into the sun this entire time without them, Ignis had observed.

"Because I'm the only one who bothered to do the work!" Ling held up a clipboard and waved it around pointedly. "Did any of you read these manuals or memorize the guest lists? No? Exactly!"

They other MTs went off, and the second round of MTs arrived. This one spearheaded by Alphonse. Who bounded over like an exited dog. Wrapping Ignis up in an hug and picking him up even. Gushing about how he had seen them get out of the car, and then seen him on the dance floor. All the while Ignis tried to have himself released like a very unhappy cat. Alphonse did apologize at least. After Prompto explained that Ignis was not particularly fond of hugs.

After this it was much of the same. With Ignis talking to a group of MTs, a whole bunch starring at Prompto with Ling making 'keep silent or I'll kill you' gestures over the former's shoulder. Ignis got wrapped up in a conversation about animals with Alphonse. Apparently the MT loved cats, and fed a whole bunch of strays. He gushed about Lunafreya's dogs afterwards. Like they were some sort of forbidden fruit.

"She doesn't let you pet them?" Ignis asked with confusion. He had met the messengers before. When the delivered notes to Noctis. They were intelligent, but not so much more than other dogs. Ignis had even petted them before, and had not suffered any sort of repercussions. One of them had chewed on Noctis' shoes once, but that was an outlier in their behavior.

"No." Alphonse' expression fell. "We're not allowed to. Not supposed to be human in front of the humans- especially our charges."

"Well that is not fair." Ignis declared. "You lot are a delight."

"In fairness you're the first human that hasn't been freaked outright by us." Alphonse, admitted, scratching the back of his helmet. "Kind of more the exception. Really. When I caught you on the boat, I half expected you to scream when we made eye contact. Most people usually do."

Ignis frowned. "I am sorry people are not so willing to give you guys the chance."

"Yeah well I guess you have more experience than most." Alphonse nodded over towards Prompto.

Ignis looked at Alphonse, then looked over to Prompto, and then looked back to the MT. What? Unfortunately he never got an answer. As another MT came over and asked him a question.

"You're from Insomnia? Is it true that you guys parade around corpses?"

"Skeletons. Not corpses." Ignis answered with reservation. Wondering if he would ever escape this Death Cult nonsense. "And only animals. We do it once a year to celebrate the winter solstice."

"That sounds fucking metal. Got any pictures?" Unfortunately Ignis did not have his phone on him. But the MT named Kimbly was more than happy to email him a message so that Ignis could send the pictures at a later date. Promising too also share, so they could all stay in touch. Ignis was going to have to get a second phone. He realized. One without a secure line, so that they. Though how would that track once he?

Sadly their visit did not last much longer than the first. For the MTs needed to get back to work. "We also need to get back to the party soon. Otherwise my sister will be furious." Ventus admitted with a sigh. "Its a shame. You boys are much better company than the sharks out there."

"You're not too bad for a human yourself." One of the MTs who had been talking with Ventus and Lacertosus joked.

"Hey. I'm still a politician." Ventus reminded them, "But maybe we'll be able to see more of each other before the week is out. Maybe do some word puzzles or something?" He asked. Turning to Lacertosus pointedly.

The blonde Captain, who had been chatting mostly with Ventus this entire time ran a finger over his upper lip. Considering. Word puzzles were one of the code words for the cocktail parties. Ignis recalled, and held his breath. "You know that doesn't actually sound too bad of an offer. I'll mostly be working though."

"Then I'll know exactly where to find you." Ventus winked with a smile, then turned to Ignis and Prompto. "Alright. back into the fray for us. You two ready?"

Ignis and Prompto said good bye to everyone, and they left the security station. Returning to the party itself through the hedge maze. Ignis held up a hand to the MT unit guarding the security entrance. Still standing stiffly and unmoving at the entrance.

"Farewell." He told the soldier as they passed without much thought.

Ventus turned backwards at his voice, and raised his hand to acknowledge the MT Unit as well. "Yes. Thank you."

Prompto did a double take in between them and the Unit. The latter of which did not move or react in any sort of way. Prompto took one last look at the unmoving Unit as they left. Slowing for half a step. Then following the two of them. Eyes downcast and quiet. Something Ignis did not notice, as Ventus was currently talking to him about how delightful their little meet up had gone.

They returned to the party. Which at this point was coming to the beginning of its last phase. Most people were done dancing, drinking and eating. Choosing instead to finish up their business or hang out in their social groups. Ignis made rounds again to talk to certain individuals. He met up with those who had asked for a chance to meet with him during the dance. Mostly people who wanted to discuss openings for some trade deals. Getting things from one continent to another was difficult these days. Especially with the war going on. It essentially required permission from both nations. Who were rarely ever in the same room. This week being one of the rare exceptions.

The party came to an end, at least for Ignis, when his Aunt Aqua caught his attention and with a singular motion waved at him from across the room. Asking him to come over to the table, with the clear intention that they were gathering up to head out. Ignis finished the conversation he was having with a magistrate. Then headed that way. Prompto at his side.

"There you two are. Is that everyone?" Aqua asked, and then started counting heads. Once everyone was gathered they left as a group. The valet pulling their cars around, and the cameras flashing. People taking photos of the after party, just incase there was some sort of drama to find.

"Hey. You two are coming over to Harry's?" Pyrus asked as he put on his seat belt. "We were thinking of playing smash."

"Ah. No. Sorry. We have a cocktail party to go to." Ignis apologized sitting down next to him.

"What? Why? those things are boring." His cousin huffed. "You should just not go."

"Of course it is boring. It's work." Ignis shrugged. "Which I need to do. Talk to people and what not."

"Isn't getting an invitation to those like, nearly impossible?" Aqua asked. "How in the world did you get an invitation?"

Ignis was about to explain the whole fake invitation thing, but then recalled what his Uncle had implied. About how the deception was kept up as a closely guarded secret. Which you needed to figure out for yourself by talking to people and being included into their circle of trust. Ignis shrugged once more. "It helps to make friends." He told his cousins, and left it at that.

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