Oh hey! Is this me writing a fanfic finally? Gasp! Is this me writing a Fire Emblem Three Houses fic too? Gasp again!
I’ve actually been sitting on this fic for awhile now, but I revisited it pretty recently! And what’s more is that the amount of stuff that I want to include with it means that it’s a chapter-based fic, something that I don’t do very often. Whoa! I’m excited to work on this in between things, as I’ve missed having a cooldown writing or just a fanfic to work on in between my work. I hope you guys enjoy it too! I miss writing romantic comedies~
Especially when I get to write tsunderes. Felix is the best tsundere archetype, and I love it.
WARNINGS: Sexual Tension, Idiots Being Idiots, Probably Some Naughty Stuff Later On
Ships: Sylvain Jose Gautier/Felix Hugo Fraldarius
Chapter Word Count: 2198
Read on AO3 too!
It was always a game to him. A competition. A hunt. The hunter would find its prey, stalk it down, and wait until it exhausted itself. And when it was weak and vulnerable, the hunter -- predator – would strike. To the prey, it was all but a brief flash before it was all over from there and their once pleasant life was spiraled into chaos. But to the hunter, it was a thrilling game. The adrenaline caused by the sensation of a successful hunt was enough to send a shiver down his spine. He engrossed himself in such behavior until he devolved into an intoxicated beast who was only sated by the hunt.
And it was what disgusted Felix about Sylvain. He assumed this kind of hunter/hunted mentality would come from the boar himself, but no. Even Dmitri was reasonable enough to put a damn muzzle on himself to calm down even after war broke out, especially whenever their childhood professor was involved. That red-headed menace, however, was a far different story. Uncontrollable, unsated even after five years of potential maturity that seemed to skip over him completely, Sylvain found himself less interested in the art of war and more in the art of seduction -- the hunt. Many warriors wished to be as skillful at combat as Sylvain was at charming women, for it truly was a feat – a talent once could say.
Not that Felix would outright say it. To Felix, Sylvain was nothing more than a degenerate heathen who needed a goddamn reality check. Seducing women was not something to take pride in, because obviously those women needed much more training in resisting emotional manipulation. Sharpen your mind like any blade, and you could see through such fiendish tactics that a dog like Sylvain would use.
Instead of chasing skirts, Sylvain should have been taking his training more seriously, for it took Felix approximately two seconds in one solid movement to knock him down. A simple sweep of the leg, a hilt to the correct pressure point on the back of the neck, and Sylvain was groaning on the ground with Felix’s foot pressed on that thick skull of his.
“…You’re dead. Again.”
“Aw, come on. There was a fly distracting me that time.” Sylvain grunted as Felix stepped off him. His hair was even more tossed around as he sat up, fresh dirt on his cheek and tunic as he gave an annoyed frown. “I feel like you’re just purposely ‘killing’ me in these combat scenarios now.”
“Of course I am, you idiot. Every enemy out there is trying to ‘purposely’ kill you, so you better get your act together.” Felix made his way to the weapon’s rack, tossing aside his training sword amidst the pile of worn-down wood. Lately, he would wear down these training blades faster than he anticipated. Every time he’d do a sparring session with his red-headed companion, he’d go through at least three of them. Oh well… Another blade, for another round. “One more time.”
“Really?! We’ve already gone at least five rounds.”
“Are you saying that you have endurance in the bedroom but not in a fight? That speaks wonders about your endurance as a whole…”
Sylvain jerked his head away to hide the little bit of tarnished pride he had before he finally managed to get himself to his feet again. He could feel his knees shake from all the bruises he’s gotten on them. Felix always did think it was funny to go for the knees. “You really know how to wound me, Felix. My body, my ego. Are you angry at me or something? Is this about what happened last night? I mean, I already said I was sorry.”
“Sorry won’t change the fact that I found you broke into my room and fell on me with the scullery maid.”
“…Okay, I admit. That was a pretty bad situation. But it was dark, and your room looked just like mine from a darkened perspective-“
“I don’t need any more excuses, Sylvain.” Felix’s eyes furrowed at his red-headed combatant, hand gripping tight to the new training sword as he wandered his way towards one of the training dummies. “Chasing women and flirting your way into people’s hearts won’t help you survive out there on the battlefield. What do you plan on doing when you’re faced with a great enemy? Wink at them and ask them to dinner?”
Sylvain paused for a moment before a smirk crept onto his face. “Well, if it works, it works.”
“Sylvain.”
“What? Why are you even bringing all this up? Don’t tell me you’re getting jealous, Felix.”
The swordsman let out a scoff, blowing his bangs from his eyes as he wipes away the sweat from his neck. Or at least, Felix told himself that. He had to place his hand over the vein on his neck that throbbed in annoyance at the mention of Felix’s jealousy. Felix was not jealous of Sylvain. This dumb oaf was full of himself if he even thought that. And Felix didn’t even need to say a single word to express how ridiculous the idea was as he turned to Sylvain, brown eyes piercing daggers into the red-haired man.
The expression prompted Sylvain to sigh as he threw his arms out to the side in frustration. “What do you expect me to do? I’m not some war machine like you or Dmitri. Hell, if I had it my way, I’d say we talk to Edelgard, take her out to a nice dinner, and let her and Dmitri talk things out under a candlelit moonlight.”
“That sounds ridiculous and delusional.”
“Then what’s your big plan?” As Felix hacked away at the stuffed hay figure, Sylvain made his way over, leaning against the unclaimed training dummy nearby. His eyes lazily watched Felix, seeing that the aggression in his eyes were tainted by a hint of annoyance and a desperate need to distract himself from something. Sylvain arched an eyebrow in thought. “Don’t tell me you haven’t thought of one. Does that mean we’re just going to waltz up to the front gates of the Empire and kill every last one of them?”
“If that’s what we have to do, then yes.”
“What kind of plan is that? At least my idea has some diplomacy involved.”
With Felix’s next swing, the training sword had found itself lodged into the mannequin with his powerful Felix’s strike. Sylvain’s eyes widened, feeling a bit of cold sweat beat down as Felix let go of the sword and glared at Sylvain.
Sylvain’s expression relaxed slightly as he noticed Felix’s demeanor change. Yes, he was still as irritated as ever, but he stepped up to Sylvain to get in his face. Sylvain couldn’t help but chuckle. Even after five years, Felix was still shorter than he was. It made Felix’s attempt to size him up all the less intimidating. Good, for it was enough for Sylvain to stand his guard, looking down to Felix as he observed the very distinct scowl wrinkles under his eyes and on his brows. Sylvain tilted his head, a smile curling at the corners of his mouth as he leaned closer to listen to Felix’s snarls.
“Seduction is not diplomacy. And I know for a damn fact that it won’t win you any battles, Sylvain. So rely on your manipulation tactics all that you like. Just know that it will get you killed in the end.”
“You think that I can’t charm my way to a win?”
“I know you can’t.”
“Then how about we bet on it?”
Felix’s eyes narrowed at Sylvain’s words, just as the red-head predicted. As expected, Felix could never turn down a challenge -- especially not one against Sylvain. It was only confirmed officially when Felix crossed his arms and quizzically muttered under his breath. “What kind of bet?”
“It’s simple. You’re saying that I can’t take down someone with just my charm alone, right?”
“I’m saying it will get you killed.”
“And let’s say I don’t get killed… Then I win the battle, right?”
Felix didn’t outwardly admit it, but the look in his eye let Sylvain know that he had a point. “Get on with it.”
“I’m betting that I can win a fight with just my charm alone. I won’t make any swings or dirty blows. Instead, I’ll use all of my hard-learned skills as a romantic to take down my greatest opponent.”
“Greatest opponent, huh?” Felix unfolded his arms, resting them on his sides as he challenged Sylvain with his stature. “And who would that be? Ingrid? Mercedes? The head chef?”
“ You.”
For someone as guarded as Felix was, his eyes widened when he processed Sylvain’s words. A challenge of charm alone… To take down Sylvain’s greatest opponent, Felix himself. He must have been joking? What kind of idiot was he? A serious one, Felix realized. For when his eyes looked away to process the notion, they returned back to a sultry gaze -- one that was much closer than Felix had recalled just mere seconds ago. The swordsman grit his teeth, reaching out and planting his palm firmly against Sylvain’s face as he pushed him away. “Stop fooling around. Your jokes aren’t funny.”
“You think I’m joking?”
Felix wasn’t expected for Sylvain to take his wrist in response. Rather than a firm jerk that he was expected, the swordsman found himself guided back towards the cavalier. Felix stared in disbelief, an arm around his waist that kept him back in his place as Sylvain very gently caressed the swordsman’s calloused fingers. He didn’t know how to react to the red-haired man’s gesture like this. Instead, he was left in the hold with eyebrows furrowed and body temporarily stunned.
Sylvain grinned back at him. “If I can seduce you in two weeks time, then I win. If I can’t, then you win. How’s that sound?”
“You? Seduce me?” Felix gawked, jerking his hand back but still remaining in Sylvain’s embrace. “Have you grown bored of your usual prey?”
“I wouldn’t say that. But you’re sounding a lot like you’re backing away from a challenge, Felix. What? Think you’d lose?”
“N-Nonsense.” Felix’s attention broke from Sylvain’s eyes as he felt fingers brush just underneath the hem of his shirt. He couldn’t help but make a face at the sensation. Of course Sylvain’s fingers would be cold… Felix forced his attention back to Sylvain again, this time with an expression far more serious. “If I accept this challenge from you, you nor I would be losing anything from it. A bet has to have something at stake for it to be worth taking.”
“I guess you’re right…”
Sylvain’s gaze softened in thought before he loosened his hold around Felix. But just before he could step away, a hand shot out, latching onto Sylvain’s forearm and keeping him there. Felix’s gaze didn’t focus on the brown pair that looked at him in surprise. “If I win, then you’ll cease your fraternizing once and for all and focus on your training more. I’m not going to let you flake out and die on me out there, got it?”
A chuckle came from the red-head as he stepped back to Felix. “I hear you, I hear you. Have to keep my promise and everything, right?” Felix was quiet, only causing Sylvain to let out a small sigh as he looked at Felix with a gentle smile. The bet wasn’t even on, and already Sylvain wanted to lay on the charm. How could anyone resist a grumpy face like that? “If I win though… You have to do whatever I tell you to do. One thing. That’s all.”
“Knowing you, you’d weasel your way around it. Saying that you want me to do ‘anything you want.’” Felix gripped the front of Sylvain’s tunic, pulling him down to his height as he glared. “You won’t win against me, Sylvain.”
“You’re sounding awfully confident there, Felix.” Sylvain grinned at the swordsmen, who only returned an irritated expression back. “This isn’t a battle of swords anymore, so I hope you’re ready to be disarmed by me.”
A grunt was all that Felix could retort with as he tossed Sylvain’s tunic forward to get the other man from him. Felix was the one that sounded confident? Sylvain was over there talking big when the bet hadn’t even started yet. That kind of arrogance just made Felix want to win even more. The swordsman went back to the bench, picking up his coat before he made his way towards the exit of the training grounds. Felix wouldn’t drop his guard for a degenerate like Sylvain. He always won in their competitions before, he would continue to do so -- no matter how confident Sylvain was in himself.
“By the way, Felix?”
“What now, Sylvain?”
“...Nice ass.”
Felix stopped dead in his tracks, his expression screaming Excuse me? He turned to do a double-take, eyebrow arching and the faintest blush over his pale face as he turned towards Sylvain. Sylvain winked in response, giving a wave to Felix as the swordsman stormed away and leaving Sylvain behind with a smirk on his face.
Nobody Crushers -- Organization XIII x Crushes (Part 1)
*squints* Do you mean, like, Nobody Organization or real Organization?
...Who am I kidding? Nobody Organization is more fun to write for anyways! (That and, like, half of the Seekers are the same person.)
Man... My 11 year old self would be so proud that I’m writing shippy KH stuff again. c’:
And since there’s alot of of people in Organization XIII, Imma break it up a bit for easier reading doses. So about 4-5 for each part. c: Three parts, yeah?
START IT FROM THE TOP THOUGH!
Part 1 -- YOU ARE HERE!
Part 2 -- Coming Soon
Part 3 -- Coming Soon
Xemnas -- The Superior of the In-Between
Can this guy really even feel anything for anyone? It’s a wonder, to be honest.
But he does have people whom he finds himself to be closest too. Is it a crush? He’s not sure.
But others can see just how close he is to Saix on a usual basis.
Whenever something goes wrong, Saix is often the first person he turns to because he can get it done.
Xemnas values loyalty, and so he often views Saix as not only an asset but as a companion whom he could trust until the very end.
Despite Saix having his own agenda, which I’m sure Xemnas knew about, Xemnas -- in his own twisted way -- probably got Saix to say more for the ‘power’ Xemnas offered than fulfilling this agenda.
Whatever he can do to having such loyalty remain.
Though when others see the blatant favoritism of Saix over other members of the Organization, they often express their annoyance from the shadows.
But hey, if they put in the work and effort to please Xemnas, then maybe they’d get special treatment too, as the superior stated several times before.
Xigbar -- The Freeshooter
He’s a cunning and kind of impulsive guy who often thinks he’s always one step ahead of the others when furthering his own evil agenda.
So people that call him out and are on par with his cunning nature often spark his attention.
Case in-point: Zexion. Possibly Vexen too, if Vexen weren’t so... Vexen.
The young guy always seems to know just what’s going on and often can see through the facades that people put on.
Highly observational or perhaps very good at detecting ‘illusions,’ considering his element.
Xigbar can’t help but entertain this fact, going up to Zexion and teasing him to perhaps break the Schemer’s own illusion of composure.
As if, though. It’s never to any avail, for Zexion is very good at being so ‘broody.’
But Xigbar just watches as Zexion leaves, a smirk on his face because one day, he’ll watch Zexion get flustered.
Xaldin has a bet that Xigbar will be able to do it. Axel bet on Zexion and his unbreakable demeanor.
Xaldin -- The Whirlwind Lancer
This guy isn’t really about love and romance, to be honest. He’s actually quite negative about his outlook on romance in general.
It never lasts, and so the sensations of ‘crushes’ and ‘attraction’ are mostly just on the impulsive side.
It’s probably why he simply views this ‘crush’ on Larxene of all people as a mere side-effect of having once been human.
She’s a strong and powerful woman, twisted and manic, impulsive and radical. It compliments what Xaldin is with his intrigue and wit.
He often grows curious of what the hell Larxene thinks sometimes, but he stays afar and only makes passive comments to avoid being on the other end of her lightning.
He enjoys the twisted side of her, yes. But he knows nothing would ever become of it. It’s just misery, and misery loves company.
Xigbar specifically notices Xaldin’s fascination with Larxene, and often teases him about it in that snide way he usually has.
But Xaldin’s easy to brush it off from. It’s just an interest in someone of opposite traits than himself, that’s all.
But still... Even if it never would work, he couldn’t help but wonder if there was such a thing as a lasting love. If ever such a thing were possible.
Vexen -- The Chilly Academic
He’s married to his work mostly, preferring the comfort of his laboratory than the comfort of someone’s arms.
Why in the World of Nothingness would he ever want that?
Well, he didn’t figure that out until some pink-haired dunce came up and greeted Vexen with a kiss on both sides of his cheeks. The deuces?!
When he first met Marluxia, he was sort of disgruntled at the younger man. This charismatic yet mysterious air to him made Vexen always befuddled when dealing with such a figure.
And yet, he probably found himself always curious and over-analyzing the situation in regard to Marluxia. Why was he so fascinated?
Perhaps it was similar to Xaldin’s analysis on the Larxene situation: opposites are sometimes more attractive than similar traits. Or perhaps it was some psychological thing he couldn’t really describe.
If only Marluxia wasn’t a little bastard though. He gets very irritated when thinking about how disrespectful Marluxia is most of the times.
And yet, Luxord cackles because he noticed just how whipped Vexen is when Marluxia comes calling for... Whatever Marluxia usually does.
Any random FFXV headcanons? Like about the characters or the world itself is up to you
I have a lot of fun headcanons that drift around, yes! A little bit of everything, and a little bit of nothing. Not sure where to begin, but I can spout out a bit of nonsense overall for you~
Like… I imagine that…
Noctis is one of those weirdos that can sleep on anything and everything. You can probably find him sleeping on a bed of nails, but he’s okay because he made it comfortable somehow.
He probably has depression of sorts, but doesn’t think so himself despite the subtle signs of it. He assumes the ‘depression naps’ are mostly just him being fatigued from past injuries.
Prompto probably is one of those fidgeters-type people. He twirls pencils, spins CDs on his finger, taps his fingers, etc. He can’t sit still.
Make him sit on his hands, and his feet will kick around and fidget instead.
Ignis is the only one amongst his group of friends who can juggle. One-handed at that, too.
If you can hide and spy on him when he’s cooking, you’ll sometimes see him doofing around and juggling tomatoes and eggs. Knives too, but that might give you a heart attack, even if he never hurts himself.
Gladiolus is an avid reader, which many don’t assume off the bat when meeting the giant behemoth of a man.
If he’s not doing anything in specific, he has to read something – from gossip magazines, to romance novels, to instruction manuals. He probably digs the sappy books as a guilty pleasure.
Ravus is a bitter person with a super sweet tooth. Something his mother spoiled him on that he never quite grew out of.
He probably drinks his tea and coffee with so much sugar that you wonder how he’s able to keep from becoming so hyper. The trick is that he’s developed an immunity, or works it all out when the immunity fails.
Lunafreya is probably multilingual, knowing the tongue of the Gods and perhaps a few other regional languages throughout Eos.
She dreams in these other languages, and sometimes wakes up with her actual voice still stuck speaking god-tongue.
Cor constantly trains and does work, but he always makes time to catch up on his favorite primetime shows. Watching it on his phone or tuning it at a bar or diner somewhere.
He gets really grumpy and often sits in the dark at home whenever he ends up missing the episode for the week. Dammit… He’s gonna have to wait for a rerun because he forgot his Jechtflix account.
Aranea cannot smash a watermelon between her thighs, contrary to the rumors that Loqi spread about her and her beastliness. She wishes though.
She can, however, stomp on a watermelon so hard that it explodes. It’s terrifying.
Ardyn is probably a secret wine collector. Or, at the very least, collects the labels or corks from the wines he’s tasted and enjoyed.
He has a few glasses almost every day, making the excuse that wine is the immortality elixir that the ancient ones used all the time. If only they knew.
The Crow’s Nest is known for their burgers and all, but they have killer French Toast.
Ignis claims he can make better. But sometimes, greasy diner food is superior to the constant gourmet healthy food that Ignis was trained to make.
Insomnia probably has some pretty fun arcades, ones that Noctis and Prompto would frequent often when they were younger. Games and prizes galore for the two gamers.
The two visited again when they explored Insomnia’s ruins, surprised to find that one of the machines could still be powered with a Thunder flask. They took it back to the Glaives’ base to boost morale.
Niflheim produces the Ebony coffee throughout all of Eos, so it was horrendous to many coffee consumers in Lucis that there was an embargo on such an amazing product.
It’s probably why it was so hard for Ignis to find coffee when traveling with the others, and why coffee in general was such a delicacy to the strategist whenever he could get it.
Tenebrae is quite the romantic place, despite it being located with a jungle area. Flowers galore with many botanists and ecologists going to study such a peculiar place.
It was one of Sania’s favorite places to visit. Before it was annexed, that is. And it’s also a place that Gladiolus wished to visit himself, mostly to observe the flowers that his favorite author wrote about alot.
You can probably tell that I really like puns as my titles.
But anyone can be dorky! Especially villains. That and I wanted to take advantage of my chance to finally write for KH again. It’s been almost ten years, yo. Yoooooo...!
So have some soft/dorky headcanons about this dork, partially inspired by observation and silly moments within the old KH manga. c: I’mma probably do more for other dorks.
The superior of the Organization who has to maintain the feeling of, well, superiority and all.
But he’s often just an awkward man who really just wants to make friends.
Thought emotions could do that, but Demyx just said that socializing would instead.
Sometimes just appears. Out of nowhere. Just to ‘say hi.’
It scares everyone out of slacking off, and they get stiff an awkward about it.
‘What are you doing?’ NOTHING SIR! He stares blankly as they walk away.
Wow... Nobodies really did hold true to their names and did, well, nothing.
He sits sometimes and admires the view of Kingdom Hearts from different places in the castle.
Usually with some sort of beverage in hand too. Tea and coffee mostly.
Sometimes sneaks some wine when others aren’t looking.
Can Nobodies get drunk?
No. They can’t feel the dizziness!
Or so he thought.
He woke up buried underneath thirteen pillows, wondering where they all came from.
Has a hard time speaking when he can’t move his hands, for some reason.
Saix noticed this, so Vexen and Xigbar tried out the experiment and made Xemnas sit on his hands before monologuing something.
Xemnas sat there in silence for ten minutes before he gave up saying anything.
Takes his mission very seriously, but knows that even emotionless husks sometimes needs some morale boosting.
Sends Xaldin specifically to go get food for the occasional ‘Organized Feast.’ Because Xaldin knows just where to go.
And if Xaldin says no, Xemnas will let the others know about Xaldin’s stress-eating.
Xemnas plays it off like it was just a convenient way to gather everyone.
But he sits quietly and listens to the silly conversations amongst the more wily members of the Organization.
He doesn’t smile alot, but when he does, it’s either a devious look or a genuine one.
Nobody knows which thought, terrifying most.
Once attempted to study human emotion by looking up what humans were interested in VIA Vexen’s terminal.
Some of it didn’t make sense to him though, so called a secret meeting with Axel and Roxas to discuss what he searched for.
Axel and Roxas tried so hard not to lose it when Xemnas asked them what ‘Updog’ was.
And why the kids these days were saying ‘Rawr’ to express feelings of love? He was sure dinosaurs didn’t speak like that.
Kids still puzzle him, so listening to Roxas talk sometimes is like listening to a foreign language.
He seems like the kind of guy who likes bitter black coffee and a chocolate glazed donut for breakfast.
Everybody wonders if he eats anything else besides that though.
He probably wears glasses to read.
Saw that the others got a heated table during the winter time -- without his approval mind you -- but he let them keep it, even if he never gets cold himself.
He didn’t have the heart to tell them no.
AAAAYE.
You bet your booty he subtly makes those jokes too. Deadpan every time.
Fair Retail Endings -- FFXV x Retail Job Headcanons
So working retail is kind of fun, but it also can drive you bonkers. But after having a fun and silly conversation with my friends about it, why not imagine characters working the ever-so mundane retail jobs? This is a fantasy based on reality, after all. ;D
Also, please like my pun in the title. I’m very proud of myself for that.
Noctis Lucis Caelum --
For some reason managed to get a job at this fancy department store, but he doesn’t mind. Money’s money.
Has to wear a stuffy suit all the time, so that sucks.
But he drifts between most of the sections of the store to keep himself busy throughout it.
His favorite pass time is hiding in the home section and ‘testing’ out the beds. You know, so he can show customers.
He’s got this charming personality with him though, which alot of people like.
He gets asked alot if he’s ever wanted to model, but he has some flashbacks.
Prompto got him a bit flustered still.
A bit of lazier side when it comes to work, but if it’s done, that’s what matters.
Really good at go-backs though. It’s like he warps everywhere and drops it all off in the right places.
Has an awesome wardrobe because of that awesome discount that Ignis makes him use all the time.
Prompto Argentum --
Your friendly neighborhood video game store employee.
He mostly applied because he heard about the awesome discounts, stayed because the fellow gamers were actually really fun to talk to and help.
He gets more than he bargained for when dealing with the grumpy rich mothers who come in to get GTA for their five year olds.
Bothers him mostly that they don’t really care much about games, but hey, what can you do?
He gets in trouble because he wants to stay later after his shift to talk or help.
A good worker boy, but no. You’re gonna get in trouble, boy!
Drags Noctis into work with him on his days off to go shopping, and brags about his discounts and deals a bit too much.
But hey! Savings! And he gets that dope discount on the latest titles!
Everyone loves him at work, so they usually come to him and his enthusiasm about games.
Cries a little inside though, because he’d rather be at him playing games than working around the games he’d wanna play.
Ignis Scientia --
The others were both shocked and (slightly) jealous that Ignis got a job at the make-up department store of all places.
Wasn’t that place for just ladies? No, actually. And Ignis was quite alright with that.
Good pay, and he’s quite eager to make someone’s day by making them feel beautiful.
He easily became a make-up artist at the store when he showed off his skills on one of the girls, which caused the ladies to fawn a bit at it too.
He’s loved by the ladies that come in, because he does his best to make them feel great about themselves and is really truthful in what works and doesn’t.
Only judges the boys who go in and whine about their girlfriends being there.
Ladies are making themselves beautiful for you, so you can stuff it, sir.
Not a big fan of the gossip and rumors at his job. He’d rather keep to himself than get involved in catfights.
But considering how good he is at his job, and how well-loved he is by his clientèle, he stays until he becomes a director himself.
His favorite make-ups are usually the extravagant ones with a theme behind it, so Halloween is a blast for him.
Gladiolus Amicitia --
Of course he works at a sports store. What do you expect?
Even if you don’t like sports though, his enthusiasm alone kind of is nice to see.
Will not hesitate to throw his balls at you. His footballs.
He probably makes alot of those jokes with his coworkers too, just for the dumbass jokes sake.
Even though you don’t know a thing about sports, he can still talk about pretty much anything and everything.
It isn’t unusual for Gladio to be talking about sports for awhile, and then suddenly giving one of the younger guys a pep talk about something.
Very straight-forward about how women should do more sports too.
One time got into an argument with a lady who said her daughter should be playing with dolls, not playing football.
In came Iris, who Gladio got to talk about and inspire the little girl.
The little girl came back and said she was allowed to take karate, so that she can become strong and tough like Iris. Gladio shed a tear.
Ravus Nox Fleuret --
The scariest bookseller that you’ll ever meet.
Not only is he intimidating, but he’s very strict about how well-kept his store is and how noisy it is.
With him simply passing by, you can feel a chill down your spine.
Ask him about book recommendations, though, and he’ll give you some really good insight.
Painful honest when it comes to books though.
‘Don’t read that. The main character is atrocious.’
No matter how long ago you had come in and gotten your book, he always remembers what exactly you’ve gotten and will ask you how it was.
He goes into detail about all the books, making you question just how much he reads.
He reads alot. Like... Alot.
Kids think he’s a superhero because he can reach the top shelves without a ladder.
Cor Leonis --
The hot hardware store grandpa that everyone in town gossips about.
They don’t believe him when he says he’s not that old. Or not that young.
You go to him mostly for your tools for any job, but he also is a great teacher too.
‘I need to paint my apartment.’ He’ll help you find the perfect color, then proceed to lecture you on how to get that perfect even coat.
Old women lose their minds when he’s working in the flower and garden section that day.
They enjoy seeing him talk so serenely about the flowers.
That, and you know. Sweaty hot man and all.
Can’t go into the lumber section, unfortunately though. The sawdust makes him sneeze to much.
Plays it cool whenever dogs come in with their owners, but secretly loves the dogs and pets them when he can.
Keeps dog treats in his apron too. For just the occasion.
Bubbles and Boyfriends -- Chocobros x S/O Bath Headcanons
*pulls out watch and looks at the time*
...Yeah, I can do this one before work. C:
Noctis Lucis Caelum --
“Oh shoot! Forgot you were in here!”
Well yeah. Bath time. But it’s not like you were doing much. You were just wrapped in a towel as you sat on the edge of the tub.
It’s too cold to be sitting out in the open while your water warms up. But it gets too steamy at the start if you don’t keep the door cracked before getting in.
Noctis isn’t really bothered by it, but he’s still considerate enough to cover his face with his hand as he awkwardly pats around the counter.
“Sorry. Just grabbing my toothbrush and stuff.”
“Noct, it’s not like you haven’t seen me naked before.”
Yeah, but he was allowed to see you naked before. This was different. It was a violation of your privacy.
You couldn’t help but let out a small sigh and a smile as he scoot over to you, kissing your forehead before he bumps into the door on the way out with what he needs.
But he really wish he was ballsy enough to just peek. One day he will.
But for now, he’s gotta go brush his teeth so he can kiss you without morning breath.
Prompto Argentum --
“HOLY SHIT! You’re naked!”
His panic got you to panic, which caused you to drop the entire bubble bath into the tub as you watch in horror about what will happen next.
He stares. And stares. And stares as you stare at the bubbles and then at him. Both of you with an expression of ‘What have I done?’
He finally notices that he was staring at your nakedness for way too long, so he shouts again, rushing over to you and wrapping you with a towel.
“I should have knooooocked...!” Stretched emphasis on the ‘knocked’ as he clings to you as if his way of begging for forgiveness.
“Uh, it’s okay, Prompto...”
“No it’s not! You trust me enough, and I broke that trust and betrayed you, and- Hey, what are you staring at?”
He looks over with you as the giant mountain of bubbles fills up almost two feet high in the tub. The two of you dumbfounded and unsure of what to do next.
Though he does pause and looks down at you with an awkward grin. “Well... Since, I’m here... Can I join you?”
He just really like bubbles.
Ignis Scientia --
You’re actually pretty okay with Ignis coming into the bathroom just before your bath. Not at first, but he keeps to himself mostly.
But when he doesn’t, he’s usually the only helping you get ready in the tub.
You simply lay there and relax as he drops in a bath bomb for you and sets up some music for you to listen to to better make the experience.
Always followed by a kiss on the lips as he whispers for you to relax as he prepares dinner for the two of you.
But you still squint in thought because of how... Well, ‘well-mannered’ Ignis can be.
So just before he’s about to leave, kissing you once, you kiss him again, grab his hand, and mercilessly tug him down into the tub with you.
Boy, he looks like a wet dog at first, but once he removes his glasses and pushes his hair out of his face, he looks at you and... Well, oh boy.
Needless to say, Ignis, when provoked, definitely ‘brings the heat,’ if you know what I mean.
But the idea of relaxing in the tub with you is always nice in the long run, since any time with his partner is the best time.
That, and smelling like lavender and peppermint isn’t a bad deal either.
Gladiolus Amicitia --
Contrary to thought, it’s not you who gets spoiled with a nice bath. Most of the times, you’re fighting Gladio for some tub-time.
If you come home on a Tuesday night later than usual, you’d most likely find Gladio in the tub, good book in hand, and candles around him too.
If Gladio comes home on a Friday night later than usual, you’re already in the tub and probably asleep because that’s the best way to spend a Friday night.
So yeah, you two are used to seeing each other naked in the tub.
But he comes home one day, just before you were about to get him and the two of you have a stare down.
“I mean, we can share the tub.” No. Gladio’s a monster, so he already takes up the entire tub with just himself. You had to tell him no.
But he gets a smirk on his face as he wraps his cold-ass hands around you. “I’ll make sure that I can fit.”
...WELL. You really couldn’t argue with that, especially since he was already tearing his clothes off and getting in the tub with you.
You two end up thinking that things would go somewhere, but guess what? It’s a Friday. Your cue is to start your nap the moment you smell the sage and rosemary.
He ends up laughing and grabs his book, reading with you laying back against him in the small tub.
Oh hey, guess where I work at. Now guess what inspired me to write this headcanon. C: YEAH BUDDY. Have some headcanons about these awesome characters as some... Maybe just as awesome customers!
Noctis Lucis Caelum --
The silent browser.
If you greet him, and he’d awkwardly tell you that he’s just looking around.
Spends all of his time staring at the games in the Playstation section -- VITA included.
You don’t really know what he’s looking for, but he looks confused at everything.
Even when you think he’s lost and confused, he comes up with ten games.
Not sure if he’s getting these games because he’s going to play them all, or just for the sake of having them.
Maybe both, but you’re still confused when he comes back in next week for more games.
Plays a little bit of everything to know about anything.
But recommending games to him is a nightmare because he’s played everything.
He’s a good guy though, so you don’t mind him browsing for hours upon hours.
Prompto Argentum --
Way too excited to be shopping for video games.
But at least the energy makes it fun to work.
Likes to shout out questions from across the store as he’s looking at games, but never directly approaches because he’s looking still.
‘Have you played this one?!’ You have, and so has he. He was just wondering.
Stoked for anything and everything JRPG and anime.
Does the really loud and dramatic gasp that signals you that he’s probably going to buy something.
But usually whenever he opens his wallet, he cries inside because there goes his money.
And yet, he comes back next week and hollers about how good the game he got was.
Comes to all of the late-night launches for his favorite games and takes pictures to promote the store alot.
Has probably waited 12 long years for KH3.
Ignis Scientia --
The last real game he’s played was released, like, a million years ago.
Doesn’t play video games often, but he came in and upgraded his system when someone decided to add his console to their ‘collection.’
Settled with a Playstation because he’s curious about what the interest was.
You don’t see him for another month later after he bought his system, Detroit and Horizon Zero Dawn.
He had to 100% complete both of the games before he trades them in and finds another couple.
Did you know there’s DLC, Iggy? ‘There is?!’ He buys it and plays the crap out of that too.
He only ever gets a couple games at a time, but they’re lengthy guys.
Three months later, and he still hasn’t completed Skyrim.
But then again, can you even really beat that game?
He’s the regular that makes it his mission to bring cookies as a gift for the holidays. For being such a helpful staff.
Gladiolus Amicitia --
Looks like a burly FPS bro, so it’s not surprising that he is one.
Gets all of the Call of Duty and Battlefield games when they come out, like it’s a designer trend.
Yes, they’re both the upgraded editions too.
Plays mostly Grade A titles that happen to be popular around the time, and brags about it alot.
He’s very direct about what he wants, and rarely ever browses for a new game.
Xbox for life. Doesn’t care that everyone else has Playstation because he just borrows Ignis’s system.
Comes in sometimes not for his own games, but simply to find a rare otome or harem anime game.
You squint a bit at Code Realize in your hands, but he says that its for his little sister.
But you caught him in the act when you made a passive comment about how Arsene was your favorite character.
Hey, he’s gotta play something in between the release of his CODs and Battlefields!
Lunafreya Nox Fleuret --
Doesn’t have time to be at home usually for an actual home console, so he’s quite happy with Nintendo Switch.
She gets all of the cute games on her system, and often uses it for little kids to help calm them when healing them.
Doesn’t know what games to get usually, so she has lengthy conversations about what would be a cute one.
Gets more obscure games usually, but that’s because the covers look the cutest.
An absolute fan of Cat Quest, because cats.
She’s always asking about what new games would be nice to keep an eye on, and preorders to make sure she gets them.
Free stuff? You bet your butt you’re giving it to her. The puppy face is too much.
She got Super Smash Bros for her Switch recently, thinking it’d be fun for the kids to play.
But she had to unlock all of the characters on her own, so she played for a week straight.
Don’t ever challenge her to Smash Bros now. She’ll destroy you with Zelda.
Ravus Nox Fleuret --
He’s that poor sucker that gets the older generation consoles from pretty much everyone.
Not that he minds. He’s okay with a casual game here and there.
Browses exclusively in the discount game bin, only to be disgruntled by the million copies of Madden in it.
All about that RPG life where he can be a knight in it.
But he comes back in shock as he tells you the story about that elf Zevran and how he accidentally witnessed an awkward romance scene.
Now he plays these glorified dating sims. For the story and for the handsome men.
He’ll often come to the store on weird occasions -- usually at night -- to ask you about all of his tech support and game walkthrough questions.
He’s technologically handicapped.
Tends to get all of the warranties and game protections on everything he buys.
He’s got nasty game rage and dogs, so he keeps everything protected.
Ardyn Izunia --
A fan of the classics and comes in often with the games he buys online through the web inventory.
Opens it all up to make sure if things are fakes or not, because collector’s gotta collect.
Gets on his high-horse alot about how he has an unsealed collector’s edition of The Witcher III, which you still don’t believe him on.
He comes in with the intent on preordering collector’s editions only for games, and drops so much money on all of it.
How rich is this guy?! It’s probably best that you don’t know.
All of his games are in steelbooks, so he asks often about if you can give him whatever steelbooks you have to keep his games in tact.
Tiny retro game systems? You bet your butt he wants to buy those.
Supposedly can speedrun Super Mario Bros in record time, but again: you still don’t believe him.
Probably the most eccentric person you deal with, and he’s actually really difficult with his insane collector’s demands.
But nevertheless, he definitely keeps things interesting, and gives you stellar reviews.
Cor Leonis --
He doesn’t really come in for the video games, to be honest, but is still a regular for some reason.
Bought Red Dead Redemption 2, and that’s been the only game he’s been playing.
You try to recommend other things, but nope. Only Red Dead.
And Monster Hunter World. He admittedly enjoyed that one too.
But you make most of your sales from him when he buys collectibles.
All about those Dragon Ball and anime statues.
Avoided the POP figures for a long time, but caved when he saw a Sailor Moon POP.
It was too cute. Don’t judge him.
He gets made fun of by the other regular, Loqi, that ‘conveniently’ happens to be shopping the same time as him.
But jokes on Loqi. His Madara statue is worth more than Loqi’s car.
So I had a couple of folks asking me (AKA giving me an excuse) to write more -- one about Daemon!Ravus and one about RavNoct. So here! You get this from me, which I’m actually kinda proud of despite having kind of abstract thoughts while writing it. But that’s what makes it pretty fun nevertheless~
Enjoy the read! New goal/mission this year: write more cool stuff! So help a brotha out and shoot me some writing prompts, inspiration, words of appreciation, etc. c:
WARNINGS: Character Death, Angst
Ships: Ravus Nox Fleuret/Noctis Lucis Caelum
Word Count: 3394
Read on AO3 too!
It was a nightmare that came to life. The metal corridors of such a hopeless place. Escape impossible. Noctis didn’t know how long he had walked – no, ran – to escape the horrors of the twisted corpses and shambles that had pursued him. He didn’t know how long it had been since he had been cast into the depths of hell here. It was only becoming a blur with his sanity depleting in a timeless wormhole.
The only thing that was made clear was how the one bit of hope Noctis had in escaping this place was found as a lifeless corpse. Elegant white stained by crimson and black. Weapon still fastened in his dismembered hand and ready to fight off the darkness, only to inevitably succumb to it. Noctis hoped it was only a ruse, shaking the commander, pleading with him. But it was a lost cause. His blood was still warm, and yet his body was so cold.
Noctis couldn’t forget how peaceful Ravus looked.
The image burned itself in his mind, but Noctis had to push it aside. There was only so long he could remain in the keep’s barracks for safety. Eventually, he would have to run. He would have to fight off the monsters, without the aid of his friends and allies. Noctis let out a breath, clutching the sword left behind by the fallen commander until his knuckles turned white through the blood on his skin.
At least Ravus would be there in spirit, helping Noctis fight his way free.
The prince struggled his way through the floors of the keep, pushing his way towards the elevator to take him up to the elevated floors above. There must be some sort of command center around here. Maybe even a switch that would allow him to use his powers again. Anything would be better than sitting here and joining Ravus in the afterlife.
Even if that did sound like a good idea.
Noctis rested against the elevator’s walls, closing his eyes for only a mere moment before the doors parted. Not even a chance to catch his breath. He pushed himself from his place and advanced, pacing himself slowly and wearily. No sign of any immediate dangers. And unlike the other floors, the area seemed undisturbed. A red trail lead from the elevator towards a large cage-like form before him. It felt odd walking on top of something besides metal as Noctis followed along the path. It felt almost welcoming as Noctis pushed aside the two massive doors and saw before him a ballroom caged off from the metalworks of the keep.
Until his gaze fell upon the white-clad figure sitting atop the throne.
“Ravus…?” Noctis’s eyes widened, body carrying him halfway there before halting abruptly. No. That can’t be him. He was dead. Noctis couldn’t forget such a sight. But he was there, eyes closed as if in a slumber.
He looked so peaceful, in sleep as he did in death.
It stung to recall just how serene of an expression Ravus had, then and now. But whatever this was, it was just an illusion. Noctis knew this as he advanced closer to the sleeping commander. It was as if nothing happened to him, a perfect recollection of Ravus that Noctis had remembered of him in the commander’s final moments. Only there was no blood. No injuries. There was only solace in the commander’s appearance as Noctis listened to the soft breathing that eased the tension in Noctis’s body.
If he closed his eyes too, then it would be as if nothing happened. Just the sound of rest between two souls. No images of the metal labyrinth. Only a darkness that would bring comfort and make him forget it all. It was a tempting thought.
At last, you have arrived, Noctis.
Noctis’s eyes shot open in amidst his daze. His hands shook as he readied himself with his sword. No sight of anyone else – nothing to be alarmed of. That is, until Noctis looked back to the throne, noticing the empty place once again. The anxiety his felt in his predicament worn him out. His mind was playing tricks on him, and the lack of true sleep only contributed more to it. Seeing things, hearing things, feeling things he shouldn’t be able to sense. It was an awful feeling…
You need your rest, Noctis. Recover yourself.
“Yeah… I probably should.” His eyes fixed themselves onto the throne. Feet dragged themselves forward, fingers unable to secure his sword anymore until it clattered to the ground. Noctis brushed his fingers over the throne’s velvet cushion. The world softened from a mere stroke of comfort that such a resting place could offer. Already Noctis’s vision blurred, ready to submit to slumber before Noctis could even sit.
Yet it still nagged in Noctis’s mind that it still wasn’t time for him to rest. Gladiolus and Ignis were probably still searching for him, and Prompto was somewhere within the keep too. But no matter how much he searched, there was no sign of reuniting with them. And with his current condition, Noctis could barely take a few more steps without feeling like he would collapse. He nearly did as he backed away from the throne with hesitation.
“I have to find the others first…”
After you rest. You have fought so hard. Regain your strength, Noctis. I will watch over you.
Noctis didn’t recall the sensation of arms wrapping themselves around his waist, beckoning him upright and guiding him towards the throne. And yet, he allowed his body to be led. He leaned against the arm of the throne as weary eyes watched the doors as they closed and sealed themselves from intruders once more. Now he was able to rest in the protection of the untainted ballroom. That’s good… Perhaps now a moment of reprieve was attainable.
The prince abided and lowered himself into his seat. Splendor overwhelmed him, washing away whatever strain and anxiety he had before and replaced it with serenity. He was finally able to have a moment to himself as his body slumped back further. Noctis’s eyes fluttered in and out of focus as he felt something stroke his hair. Feather-like and comforting as they brushed Noctis’s hair from his eyes like a small breeze. He couldn’t help but feel as if he was being embraced with warmth, at last able to close his eyes as the words whispered in his mind again with a heat burning against his neck.
I will watch over you.
“Yeah… I’ll see you in my dreams, Ravus.”
The commander smiled against Noctis’s neck and held him tighter. “Sleep well, my king.”
--
“Come on! We mustn’t lose him this time!”
“Wait up, Iggy. We can’t afford to get split up again.”
Gladiolus and Prompto pursued Ignis as the trio ran through the corridors. Despite his disability, Ignis was eager to go, pushing through the corridors with no fear or weariness. They too had all been trapped in the labyrinth, but they were able to reunite once again. Prompto had been saved by Gladiolus and Ignis, but their party was still short their most valuable member. The pursuit after the prince only proved to be more tedious in a maze of steel and iron. But Ignis always did have a keen sense in finding Noctis. And despite his blindness, it took no more than a clang of metal to alert Ignis and quickly dash towards the noise. Foolish perhaps, but if Ignis sensed it was the prince, he may be right.
They had nothing to lose. Except for their friend, that is.
The elevator rose up, and it didn’t take another beat before the group pushed their way out and ran up to the large metal doors that blocked their path. Odd that there would be such an ornate door in such a hellish place. If this is where their adventure lead, then they would see to just what laid beyond.
“Prompto, open the door!”
“G-Got it!”
The blond stammered but held the code on his wrist up. Despite his insecurity over noting it to Ignis and Gladiolus, there was no time for hesitation. Noctis was more important – the glue that held their group together. Just because he was ‘the enemy,’ Prompto wouldn’t allow himself to forsake Noctis just because he refused to open the paths for the others. So, he quickly scanned the code and unsealed the door’s lock. Attempted to before he ultimately resorted to summoning his pistol and blasting the security panel.
Gladiolus moved into action by pushing the massive doors aside. He was the first to rush into the room, being the shield for Ignis and Prompto, but being the first to get to Noctis’s side as his bodyguard. He already felt as if he failed for his lack of protection. He got separated from the prince – an unforgivable act even if the two argued previously. He regretted everything he said to Noctis. He regretted blaming Noctis for Ignis’s pain, for telling him his mourning was for nothing. Because knowing that Noctis was alone in this hell, fearing the death of the prince… Gladiolus began to see just where Noctis’s grief stemmed from. He needed to see Noctis safe – to apologize. To protect his king before the daemons that swarmed the keep.
And to protect Noctis from the daemon that sat upon the throne.
Darkness dripped from the figure in the throne, pooling around and running along the floor towards the trio that entered. The snow-white attire and features of what was once a man was stained and tattered. His flesh was cracked with the same dark liquid spilling from his face and eyes, falling more as it slowly turned towards the trio and rasped.
“Noct!”
Triggered by the name, the daemon held the prince tighter and let out an ear-shattered shriek. The prince remained unphased by such noise, captured in a trance of slumber as the demon held the sleeping prince in his lap. The monster hissed, rising with the prince in its arms with its voice twisted and shrill.
“What the hell is that…?!” Gladiolus summoned his sword, shielding Ignis and Prompto in a defensive stance as the daemon towered before them. Whatever it was, it wasn’t human anymore. “Whatever it is, it needs to die…!”
“Gladio, wait!” Prompto gripped Gladiolus’s arm, his eyes widened in shock as he pointed. “Look.”
The bodyguard’s eyes narrowed as the demon lowered the prince into the throne. What was this? Did it just caress Noctis’s face? Compassionate in its actions, it was shocking to see. The daemon turned itself back to the others, a menacing snarl coming from it as it reached to its side. It drew a monstrous black weapon from its side, reminiscent of a blade that lashed out its corruption across the red and gold ballroom. Gladiolus readied his shield the moment the daemon dashed forward. It was barely a blink of an eye before the daemon was in Gladiolus’s face, dripping across Gladiolus’s shield and face before the bodyguard threw the daemon back.
‘Watch… Over… Him…
He is mine…!’
Gladiolus roared to the gunner. “Prompto! Get Iggy out of here!”
Prompto followed his commands, guiding out Ignis just as the daemon recovered and lashed at Gladiolus again. Slow his swings were, but the brutality of each strike nearly knocked Gladiolus around. Gladiolus grunted at the first blade’s strike, but then blocked at the second, sliding back against the wall before recuperating to block the reemergence of the monster with its blade. Damn… This thing was strong. Whatever they had faced before was child’s play compared to this daemon. But for some reason, it didn’t attack Noctis. Was it under Ardyn’s control? Why keep Noctis alive like that?
‘No other… Noctis…!’
Gladiolus surveyed the monster as best as he could before throwing it back again, stumbling away to regain his breath. There must be a weakness. Was it that pulsing thing on its chest? Its legs? Anything would work, because there was only so much evading Gladiolus could do against a fast and powerful daemon. His eyes continued to search, but he did notice something. Amongst the dripping black liquid was a familiar emblem across the remnants of the monster’s attire. Gold, silver, and violet. Gladiolus’s eyes widened at the revelation.
The Tenebraen coat of arms.
It made more sense now as Gladiolus looked again. The white uniform was barely recognizable anymore. Sword was melted into that twisted black form. There was hardly a face through the cracks and deformities on the monster’s face, but was it…?
The monster didn’t let Gladiolus have a moment more of rest before it dashed forward again. And as it swung its blade up, Gladiolus readied himself to block again before he roared back. “Ravus!”
Too close for comfort, the blade had stopped mere inches from Gladiolus’s face. A silence settled, too quiet for the conflict that had stirred just seconds prior. The daemon let out a rasp of a breath, stepping closer and pressing its corrupt blade against the shield’s neck. A thin train of blood crept down Gladiolus’s flesh. Crimson. A painful color that the daemon seemed to recall as it hissed by Gladiolus’s face.
Gladiolus didn’t get to counter the sharp strike to his chest that knocked him far. His sword clamored to the ground as he struck the metal caging of the ballroom’s walls. He took a knee to recollect his breath, blood being vomited to the ground as he wheezed. A powerful strike, but not enough to keep Gladiolus down for long. The king’s shield rose again, summoning his weapon back to hand as he readied for the defensive.
The daemon, however, had lost its interest. It began to stagger back towards the throne, its blade falling to the ground as the black ooze began to drip from its form. A vile path was left – skin shed until eventually it revealed its true form. A stained and torn coat that wouldn’t be considered white anymore. Skin pale as snow itself and silver hair with a lost sheen. And with a sorrowful expression, dark and corruption still in its eyes, it watched the sleeping form before falling to its knees before the king.
“Ravus…”
Gladiolus watched the monster transform, slowly following the trail towards the man’s side. His greatsword shattered from reality, a rain glimmering around Gladiolus. It was only when Ravus turned towards Gladiolus that the shield recognized the daemonic look in his eyes. White still black and his gaze shifting between a glowing violet to their once normal blue color. Ravus was no longer the man he once was. It was a harrowing realization.
“I had only wished to fulfill her wish.” The commander’s hands shook as he reached up, taking the king’s hand into his black claw-like own. “She wished for his safety and well-being, and thus, I swore to see to it. I cannot break her promise. I cannot lose him.”
“Neither can we, Ravus.” Gladiolus reached out and rested his hand atop Ravus’s shoulder. “But Noct’s got a job to do – one that’ll save everyone. Even if it’s a hard one.”
“No!” Ravus lashed out at Gladiolus, gripping his arm and causing the black corruption to grapple the shield’s arm. It threatened to go further and injure him even more, were it not for Ravus’s restraint. “It was this task – this Astral forsaken prophecy – that got my sister killed. And it will result in more suffering. The one thing she wishes to protect in this world – that I wish to protect… That is something I refuse to let be abused any longer!”
Gladiolus grit his teeth, reaching up and trying to pry some room between Ravus’s hostile grasp. “I know, Ravus. We don’t want to let Noct get hurt any more either. But that’s why he can’t stay here with you. You won’t hurt him, but think about him, dammit!”
“It is only about him!” Ravus threw Gladiolus down onto the ground with enough force to shatter the tiles beneath. The darkness only began to grow over Ravus’s arm and face again, twisting into a more daemonic horned form as he snarled. He squeezed tighter and tighter, an attempt to drown out the grunts of pain coming from the other man. “I will be his guardian and protector. I will not let that monster get his hands on him, nor will I let you take him from me-!”
“Ravus.”
Those weren’t the words of the bodyguard pleading with him as he expected. Ravus’s eyes widened as he slowly turned towards the soft voice, meeting the blue eyes of the king that watched. Not with fear, not with anger… With pity it was. The fact that he was awake was enough for Ravus to retract his arm. He staggered forward towards the king, kneeling before him as his black claw reached up towards the king’s face.
“You… Need your rest, Noctis.”
“I know… But so do you, Ravus.” Noctis allowed Ravus’s hand to caress his cheek, his own hand reaching up and resting on top of it. He didn’t allow himself to be frightened of the daemon before him, even if he wanted to be. Ravus didn’t need to be feared. “You’re fighting hard, aren’t you? With the daemons inside of you, with the grief that you’re feeling… Does it hurt to fight so hard…?”
The daemon shook its head. “My pain has no significance. All that matters are your desires, my king.”
“That’s not true, Ravus. You matter too.” Noctis took Ravus’s claw away, holding onto his hands as he looked at the heterochromatic gaze before him. “That’s why I want you to rest.”
“But I swore to protect you. It was my vow to her and my vow to you.”
“I know… But you can’t protect me when you’re so weary.” Noctis gave a soft smile, reaching up and brushing aside Ravus’s hair. "You have fought so hard. You deserve the chance to finally close your eyes.”
The daemon rasped, hanging its gaze as it gripped tighter onto Noctis’s hands. The king winced as he felt blood being drawn. But Noctis guided Ravus’s head down onto his lap, gingerly running his fingers over the commander’s hair as the darkness began to dissipate. There was the commander that Noctis recognized, staring onward with a worn expression as he gripped tighter to Noctis’s hand.
“Have I truly fought hard as you say, Noctis?”
“Yeah. You have.”
“…Will she forgive me for not protecting you?”
“I know she will, Ravus. You’ve already protected me this far, and I know you’ll keep on protecting me later.” Noctis slowly raised his hand from Ravus’s hair. “Go ahead and rest, okay? I will watch over you.”
Ravus gave a slow nod, closing his eyes slowly as black tears fell from his eyes. “Alright… I will see you in my dreams.”
Noctis flexed his hand, manifesting a dagger into it as he whispered. “Sleep well, Ravus…”
The king had to close his own eyes as he brought the blade across the commander’s throat, allowing the darkness to ooze from the injury and spill at the foot of the throne. It was a quiet end, a silence settling within the room as if the air had vanished from it. Noctis felt the blade disappear from his hand like feathers brushing across his skin into the atmosphere. And yet, he sat there, shaking fingers curled into the white locks. His breath was raspy, his eyes finally opening as he looked up towards the ballroom’s caged ceiling as the crystals floated to the sky.
“Noct…?”
“I’m okay… He doesn’t have to fight anymore.” Noctis turned his sorrowful eyes towards Gladiolus. “He can finally rest.”
Gladiolus gave a small nod, his eyes only able to look at the commander’s body for a moment before having to turn away. It was an act of mercy that ended the tragic man’s suffering, but it still didn’t feel any better. He couldn’t imagine how Noctis really felt. He moved and guided Noctis up to his feet, catching Ravus in his other arm and setting the commander atop of the throne. Shielding Noctis with his arms, he looked back one last time at the commander.
It was comforting seeing Ravus look so peaceful in his eternal slumber.
Phew! Been awhile since I’ve written. c’: I felt like writing something in more of a chain-of-thought type thing, which lead to me kind of writing this.
I wanted to have a more dialogue-based story. And recently inspired by some interviews that I’ve conducted (and realized that I destroyed people in), I figured it was kind of fun to have an almost challenging-type reader character in there. Confident and sharp almost to the point of brutality. I kinda like writing that kind of deviousness -- especially from both parties.
So I hope you enjoy the read! :D I’ve been rusty on my writing for sure...
WARNINGS: None. Just that it’s more dialogue than action.
Ships: Ravus Nox Fleuret/Reader (Ambiguous Reader)
Word Count: 3196
Three minutes past the hour was still considered late, no matter how one would look at it. Three minutes past the anticipated noon time was not noon. It was twelve thirty in the afternoon, and it was unacceptable. Punctuality was important in the mind of the deputy-commander, and he wouldn’t expect anything less from his meetings. He was a busy man with a busy schedule, and so once past the time, he shouldn’t even bother with being patient. No. He wouldn’t be patient for his appointment. He would simply have to move on and tend to more important tasks that playing this waiting game.
Well, he considered it at least. He considered getting up and leaving the place he was warming up for the last hour now, but he was already so invested in this. If he left now, then his place would be taken should his appointment finally arrive, or worst of all, he would be the one that seemed as if he never arrived for the meeting. At this point in time, it was a battle of pride. He would not be the one who would falter in this situation. He would be the one that prevailed in this endurance match of waiting. He would wait, dammit. Because that way, it wouldn’t seem as if he was the one who failed to keep his end of the bargain on their intended meeting time.
Twelve o’clock. Noon. Sharp.
He glared at the ornate clock upon the wall, watching as the time click in such a horridly slow pace. Almost five minutes past now. And he counted down the time. The brutally long time.
Fifty-seven...
Fifty-eight...
Fifty-nine...
“Ravus?”
Ravus’s eyes snapped over to the door as it opened. About damn time someone emerged. How dare they leave him waiting for so long! Heterochromatic eyes narrowed for a moment as you emerged, clipboard of information tucked underneath your arm as you looked at Ravus with a curious expression. Huh? You couldn’t help but wonder why he looked so irritated. Nevertheless, you smiled and held the door open for him.
“Right on time, Mr. Fleuret! You really are as punctual as they say.”
Ravus was hardly amused as he rose from his face, fixing his coat as he glared back at the clock again. “And yet, you are not. When you claim that our intended appointment was at noon, then I expected you to hold true to your anticipated time.”
You arched an eyebrow at him. “It is noon though.”
“Not according to this clock.”
You felt your eyes narrow at him before you flicked your wrist and flashed your phone at him. “Noon on here, according to a universal clock. And now noon o’one, since you keep wasting our meeting time arguing this.”
Ravus scowled at the statement, looking at your phone in shock before looking at the clock once more. He had to reach into his pocket to look at his pocket watch.
Damn. One past noon.
He opened his mouth to apologize, but you merely gestured to the inside of your office with a plastered smile. “Now then, shall we begin our meeting, Mr. Fleuret?” He tried not to let the eye twitch show as he obediently nodded his head and walked into the office past you, just as you tried to hide the satisfied smile on your face as you followed him.
It was always a pleasure making even the most powerful of people feel powerless.
You tapped your way to your desk, gesturing to the chairs before it for the deputy-commander to sit. Your made sure to have the most uncomfortable chairs the empire could offer for the people who were brought into your office – almost a sick and twisted way of testing the people who were unfortunate enough to come into your office. You took your place within the comfortable leather, scooting forward as you eyed Ravus in his place on the edge of the plastic seat. He seemed like a behemoth compared to how short the chair was, but he feigned comfort by crossing his legs over one another as he surveyed the office.
Poor guy.
You couldn’t wait to tear him apart.
It was perhaps the strangest way to compare it to, but you were, in a way, like the recruiter within the Imperial army. That was the only way you could describe it without making yourself sound like some sort of therapist who probed into the minds and lives of the soldiers around you – seeing if they were fit to serve the Empire. You obviously weren’t that, because you never babied those in the army. You didn’t need to. They were grown ass men and women who knew what to do, how to follow orders, how to obey the will of the emperor. But even if they knew how to keep their loyalty to the empire, it was your job to make sure that – loyal or no – a soldier wasn’t considered a liability to the emperor and his ambitions. And if they were… Then, well, you’d be among the first to tell Emperor Iedolas and Chancellor Izunia that something needed to be done.
And so, the Deputy-Commander of the Niflheim Imperial army was there in your office, ready for you to report your interview with him to the emperor and chancellor to see if his nomination was an acceptable one – especially since now General Glauca was killed in action. The role of high commander should be passed onto Ravus, but not without some proper checks behind the character of the Tenebraen prince. You didn’t really care if hierarchy claimed that he was next for the job. If Emperor Iedolas’s ambitions were at risk thanks to Ravus, then you wouldn’t hesitate to mark him as a threat to the empire and send him to prison.
For the Empire, all that jazz.
If anything, the Empire just so happened to be the place you worked for, happily acting as an advisor to the Emperor and Chancellor without much objection to it. But that’s because nobody ever dared to really challenge the empire to begin with – dared to challenge you. No person in power would make it to that position without proving it to you. It didn’t really matter whom you worked for, because no matter where you were you were good at your job. Ruthless at it, because if a liability came into power, then it would be you to blame. It was a game played to the extreme with only the most powerful of pieces recruited. You would only accept the best in your conquest for flawlessness. It was the ultimate challenge you attempted to fulfill.
And so, you weeded out the weak by letting the poor soul before you know just how powerful you were, making him sit there in silence as you surveyed your paperwork. You already read it all over, but just allowing Ravus to sit there and wait even more was more satisfying than the questions you had prepared for him. And you made sure to take note of everything as he waited. The way he tapped his fingers on his knee, the press of his lips as his eyebrows furrowed, and – your favorite – the way he glared at you as if trying to anticipate your next move. It was a game of chess, and he was waiting for your first move.
“So, Ravus. How is your arm healing?”
You could see him physically restrain himself from clenching his metal fist in reaction to your question before he cleared his throat and spoke. “It will heal in given time.”
“And if there’s no time to give?” He raises his gaze towards you. “We have a busy agenda within the Empire, Commander. We cannot afford to waste any time, so not even the death of Glauca will hinder the Emperor as we progress towards the figure. Your recovery is important, but not important enough for us to hold back for your sake.”
“I understand, and I had no intention of letting my injury become problematic for the Empire’s rise to glory.”
“And yet you let your pride become problematic instead.” A nerve was struck as you watched his upper lip twitch in irritation. You smiled and cocked your head. “My job is to know the gossip. And rumors claimed that your annoyance with the Lucians is what caused the ring to be lost in the first place. Glauca could have ended your life then and there, but even he did little to abide by his orders to finish off the nuances of the empire. Perhaps he too deserved a punishment as worse as yours.”
“And death was not punishment enough?”
“No. Death was the easy way out.” The tone in your voice was perhaps more ruthless than even you anticipated. But you rose from your place, beginning to prowl around the desk in another one of your tests. It often made even the most stoic of people nervous when they couldn’t see the ‘enemy’ in their line of sight. But it was impressive how Ravus didn’t even move to let his eyes follow you. You smiled and tapped your fingers along your bookcase. “Glauca lost his life because he let his attachments become his downfall. The attachment to his second life, the attachment to the hatred for the Lucians – how will we know that you won’t end up like Glauca, Mr. Fleuret?”
Ravus was silent, making you watch him in a bit of annoyance that he didn’t have an answer fast enough for you. Looks like you shut him up for good. Not even enough fight in him, you supposed.
That is, until he replied. “Perhaps that is a gamble that you will have to make.”
…Well now. For once, that caught you by surprise. You turned around to face him, crossing your arms over your chest as you leaned against the wall. You gestured for him to continue, which he didn’t need to see directly to know you were waiting for an explanation – no, an argument for you.
“Wars are not won with strategy alone. Many of the greatest strategist are gamblers by nature. Much like you are, I can imagine.”
“Oh?” Your eyes narrow at him. “I’m pretty sure this is about me analyzing you and your behavior, Ravus.”
“And my behavior is that of a tactician as well. One who can anticipate the enemy’s moves and be a step ahead of them throughout the process. Know thy enemy – just as you have done your research on me. Am I not wrong?” He had the nerve to turn his head, violet piercing at you with the sharpness of a blade. “And you should know then that you cannot break an already broken man, so try as you like during this interview to shatter me.”
An intimidation tactic to counter your own intimidation tactic? And it almost worked as you seemed almost taken aback by the intense look in his eye. Almost. Fighting brute strength with brute strength was impressive, but it would only get him so far. But you had to admit, it was impressive. Not even Glauca could combat you with a blatant challenge like this. You chuckled and moved back towards your desk, flopping down in your seat before lifting your paperwork again.
“It’s no fun to break a person who can’t be broken. You’re the first interview I’ve had that was dumb enough to think you can strong arm me to backing off.”
“And yet, you refrain from your verbal assault.”
There was a tension in the air that would have smothered the weak as a silence settled between the two of you. Your eyes narrowed at him as you leaned forward with your chin on top of your laced fingers. Ravus leaned back in his seat, hand resting on top of his knee as he crossed his legs properly.
“Testing me is like playing with a Sabertusk, Mr. Fleuret. Are you really going to test your luck with the person who will make or break your future?”
“That depends. Will you continue to circle around me to shatter my composure? Will you continue to trick me with altered clocks and feigning under-preparedness? Will you continue to intimidate me with the ideas that you will be the one to determine how fit I am to become High Commander?” Ravus leaned forward, heterochromatic eyes challenging you as he so easily unveiled the strategies and plans you had for the upcoming interview. Damn… He was more prepared than you thought. “I am willing to press my luck, just as you are willing to press yours to see if I will falter.”
“Who said I was relying on luck?”
“If not luck, then hope. Hope that you were not wrong in assuming I am unfit to become the High Commander.”
…Oh, he was good. You underestimated him, not realizing just how imposing he was and how different he was compared to the others. He was not stupid, which only made you smile and laugh as you leaned back in your seat. It had been a long time since you’ve had someone this ballsy in the hotseat. “Well then… If anything, I hope to see that your supposed luck is not confused with foolishness.”
“Foolishness or a will to fight you?”
“And what is giving you the will to keep fighting me, Mr. Fleuret?” You watch him like a predator, waiting for him to make a mistake to finish the job for the pride of Niflheim. “Most would accept their fate as a broken, injured, prisoner of war – marketed as a pet of the empire and a trophy of Glauca’s conquest of the shattered kingdom of Tenebrae. You, the exiled prince of Tenebrae, Ravus Nox Fleuret, are nothing more than a prize for Niflheim to brag about. Most in your position would lack the fight to keep moving forward – to dare take up the mantle of the enemy that ruined your life. And yet, here you are.” You sat upright in your seat, arms crossing on your desk as you eyed the commander again. “For a man as ‘broken’ as you claim, it’s impressive that you’re still able to stand.”
“Is there a question in amidst your observations, or are you merely griping for a recollection of my tragedies?”
You scoffed, shuffling the paperwork on your desk as a smirk returned to your face. “I guess my only question right now is ‘Why?’ Why go through all the trouble of pleasing an empire that only brought you suffering and torment? Why bother to become the next high commander when you know the odds are stacked against you?”
“I am certain that you asked approximately two questions.”
“And I am certain that you’re being a smartass, Mr. Fleuret.” You noticed the fainted curl tugging up at the corner of his mouth. “Explain to me why you would ever manage to impress me as the new High Commander.”
Ravus shifted in his place, and you tried your damnedest not to laugh as the chair squeaked and shattered the silence. You could tell Ravus was more annoyed at the inconvenient noise than the discomfort. “My intentions of why are irrelevant in the grand scheme of things. My life, as you have referenced, is ruined. In a world when I have nothing left, there is only so much one can do. Except of course, make a gamble.” Ravus flicked his wrist and gestured to you. “High risk and high reward, if you will. For a man with nothing to lose is perhaps the most feared, wouldn’t you agree?”
“No. A man with nothing to lose still has nothing. He shouldn’t be gambling to begin with. He only becomes a risk.”
“What’s life without a bit of risk? A man with nothing only means he has everything to gain. After all-”
“’The greatest tacticians are gamblers by nature?’”
“It is how Chancellor Izunia became one of the most powerful men in the empire. And, perhaps, it is how you were able to gain your position of power as well.” You pressed your lips in a thin line as you listened to his defense. “There is only so much intimidation you can do. Only so many mind games you can play before someone knows your exact strategy. What will happen when all your meticulous calculations fail?”
“I never fail.”
“Is that so?” Ravus cocked an eyebrow, leaning back again as he gestured to you. “So, I assume that you intended to beat me then, and prove to the Chancellor and Emperor that I am just as unfit as you assumed.” His eyes watched you with a dangerous look, like a knife to your throat. “Well? What is your verdict?”
“Take a lucky guess, Mr. Gambler. What is my final verdict?” You smiled back with an equally dangerous look. The other man was cunning, you had to admit. It was almost exciting to have this kind of clever conversation with someone. The only other person daring enough to have these types of talks was the chancellor, but his games only ended what you bluffed on: that you never failed. Contrary in the battle of wits, only the chancellor could outmatch you. It infuriated you, and yet having Ravus here, you couldn’t help but realize something…
“That pure luck is your only option now in winning against me.”
Yes… You realized that there was another man who could outmatch you.
Your eyes narrowed into a glare, but it soon relaxed as a soft chuckle turned into laughter. You shook your head, tapping your fingers on your desk as you looked at the paperwork again. You rose from your place, gesturing to the silver-haired man to rise with you as you escorted him towards the door. You looked at him, tilting your head as he stood before you at the doorframe. “I’m sure you’ll be seeing more of me in the future. After all, if I find out that you are more of a threat than an asset, then I’ll be the first one to report you to the Emperor.”
“I would not expect anything less, should that be your ultimate plan.”
“Who knows? Perhaps I’ll get lucky that it won’t come to that.” You smirk at the other man, extending out your hand to him. “Until then, I hope you won’t disappoint me, High Commander Fleuret.”
Ravus scoffed, returning the expression as he reached out and took your hand to shake it. “I do not intend to.”
And with a bow of his head, he turned on his heel and departed. You watched him carefully with your arms crossed over your chest and your shoulder leaning against the doorway. You clicked your tongue, index through pinky finger drumming against your bicep before you turned towards your secretary at their desk. “Contact Chancellor Izunia for me, please.”
The secretary nodded, watching Ravus depart before looking back at you. “And what will you have me say?”
“That I’m willing to make a gamble on our new High Commander.”
“Isn’t that a little risky to say?”
You smiled in response. “What’s life without a bit of risk?”
I have not, actually! But I do know enough about Percy Jackson to at least know its associated with demigods and stuff. :D So why not have some FFXV x Greek Gods association headcanons? Quick and easy, and kind of observation based!
Noctis Lucis Caelum -- Child of Hades
Ancestor of Hades, Ruler of the Underworld and the God of Death, Riches, and Darkness.
Supposed to be a bringer of supposed evil, one heavily tied to the potential end of the world, but it’s actually not true.
He’s not a bad kid. Lazy and passive, but he ultimately doesn’t like to get involved with business unless he really has to.
Contrary, however, he’s also quite altruistic -- more rather helping others and taking care of them than he would himself.
He seems like your standard emo kid, but he’s got alot more depth behind him than he really lets on.
Prompto Argentum -- Child of Apollo
Ancestor of Apollo, God of Light, Music, Art, and Archery.
A sunshine boy, quite literally in the sense when he’s the ancestor of the sun god.
He’s cheery and very enthusiastic about pursuits of enlightenment. From art, music, knowledge and more, he’s supportive of it all.
Supposedly Apollo was also the god of plagues, which can often bring forth alot of misfortune to those associated with Prompto and Apollo.
He tends to keep it a secret in case it might spark fear in others who have grown attached to him.
Ignis Scientia -- Child of Hermes
Ancestor of Hermes, God of Trade, Thieves, Travelers, and Athletes, and Messenger of the Gods.
Perhaps one who can assimilate the best from royal and political matters into the mundane and modern lifestyles, mostly due to his knowledge.
A protector of those who travel, he’s ready to keep travelers and wanderers safe from the dangers on the road ahead.
He’s more witty than he lets on, knowing the right plans and strategies to outwit those who have devious or malicious intents.
Supposedly, Hermes is also the inventor of fire, an irony to the name that Ignis bears.
Gladiolus Amicitia -- Child of Poseidon
Ancestor of Poseidon, God of the Sea, of Earthquakes, of Storms, and of Horses.
The ancestor of a temperamental god, Gladiolus’s temper can often get the better of him in the long run.
He can be as calming as the waters out on distant sea or as aggressive as a typhoon -- unstoppable when he has a resolve to them all.
He has a strong affinity with some animals and with life around him, quite proud of the nature and sea that he’s surrounded by.
He’s been trying to control the storm within him, but it takes time, that’s for sure.
Ravus Nox Fleuret -- Child of Ares
Ancestor of Ares, God of War, Violence, and Bloodshed.
He’s a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. And although he tries to have a strategy, his temper ultimately throws it into chaos.
Violent and powerful when fighting, he’s a force to be reckoned with as foes fall to his feet.
He’s generally unloved due to the wake of bloodshed that follows after him, making him more of a lone and bitter figure.
He loves dogs though, so it’s a good thing that Ares is usually represented by dogs.
Lunafreya Nox Fleuret -- Child of Hera
Ancestor of Hera, Goddess of Marriage, Women, and Family.
She strives most of all to bring together a sense of peace through her potential marriage with the child of Hades, for that is her calling.
Sometimes is so dedicated to her tasks that she tends to forget that there are things in the way, angering her in the process.
Gentle and graceful, however, she remains an icon that many hope to become, for even she has her own powers and strengths.
She is sometimes associated as the Goddess of Kings and Empires, so many often seek her and her guidance on their way to the throne.
Ardyn Izunia -- Child of Dionysus
Ancestor of Dionysus, God of Wine, Festivities, Madness, Ecstasy, and Theater.
Eccentric and theatric in his behavioral portrayal, he’s able to catch the attention of those who listen to his voice.
He’s got his own methods that ultimately create a sense of chaos every where he goes, but it’s all apart of his own devises.
Self-indulgent in his own journey for salvation and peace, he gets lost in his own ego and ecstasy to really care much for others anymore.
Probably also drinks alot. It’s a pass time because he can.
Hm… I can delve into some notes on they met their S/O~ I like writing about those scenarios the most! :D I’ll let you know!
Take a look back to the previous Crime AU post for more reference!
BLOOP!
Read Noct’s as a preview, then hit KEEP READING to read for the other bros!
WARNINGS: Not really anything bad, though the fact that these are villains/criminals does bring up some red-flags.
Tagging: @keyblade-loser
Noctis Lucis Caelum – The Drug Lord
Noctis is not a very public figure when it comes to his affairs. You know, between the drug rings or just normal presence in the world. He prefers to remain hidden – for the fewer people that know him is the better. He’ll never be one to show off or flaunt his wealth or status in the world. Why try to use money to impress someone when he had his own set of charming traits that could? At least, he hoped he did.
So when he walked into the diner you worked at, dazed to all hell and a bit jittery from what you assumed was a high, you easily mistook him for nothing more than someone super strung-out after partying hard. Considering the usual lot that you had to deal with these late nights, he wasn’t really that different, you thought. The only difference was that he had a suit that made it very clear that he didn’t want vegetables. He was more lucid than most of the other addicts that you’ve seen wandering in. He just sort of asked for his food, then stare off in thought as he taps his fingers over his phone to ignore the messages. Not a talker.
You didn’t really want to get involved with him that much, considering the last time you talked to someone who was strung out, they got a bit too handsy, but he seemed nice. Said please and thank you, so that’s a plus. He asked a few questions about how your night was, small talk that turned into bigger questions of existentialism that you didn’t know how to answer. But perhaps it was better that you didn’t have an answer. The conversation was still nice nevertheless. And when he left, you were shocked to see the hundred dollar tip left on the counter. Wait… Was he serious?
You chased after him to give it back, holding it out and saying that you could break the hundred for him. But no. He simply shook his head and handed it back to you. “You can keep it, if you’ll let me come back and get more pancakes from you.”
You were more taken aback by the fact that he wanted to see you again than the fact that you had a hundred dollar bill crumpled in your palm. But you finally agreed, the drug addict prince smiling at you before he made his way from the diner. You watched him go, eyes narrowing suspiciously as you saw him enter into a black car surrounded by men in suits. A black car… That seemed suspicious.
