Let’s give the changing seasons and this little rarepair some love from November 29, 2019 to December 1, 2019.
Each day will have a selection of themes or prompts to choose from, pick as many, or as few, as you want and create something for the Glaive and his Prince.
Rules: tag your work as NyxNoctFallWinter2019 and have fun!
(Feel free to mention the NyxNoctocalypse to make sure we see it and boost the signal!)
Day 1: Harvest, Feast, Colours, and/or Topaz
Day 2: Dances, Growth, Reflections, and/or Uncovered
Day 3: Holidays, Fireworks, New Beginnings and/or Cozy
Noctis could sleep for days, but when awake would hardly hold still for more than a few moments. Even if he loved how Nyx's fingers felt running through his hair.
"I want to see."
"It's not done."
"Then hurry it up!"
"Patience, little king, is a virtue." Nyx flicked Noctis' ear in admonishment. "Besides, short hair is hard to braid."
Once Nyx had finally finished, he offered Noct a mirror. The prince immediately started playing with the beads in the two short braids behind his ear. "I like them."
"Those are Ulric clan colors," Nyx explained, lowering the mirror so he could place a kiss to his lover's forehead. "Welcome to the family."
Under different circumstances, his mother would have been the one to do the braids. To welcome the new member of their little family and show her approval. But here in his apartment, in front of the memory board of his homeland and family, would have to do.
"Do you think they would have liked me?" Noct asked, catching where Nyx's eyes had drifted.
"They would have loved you."
**********
This one is heavily inspired by @aithilin who often uses braids and beads in her Nyxnoct fics. I love the idea that they have meaning in Galahdian culture.
An Archive of Our Own, a project of the
Organization for Transformative Works
“The day after his Prince’s birthday, Nyx has planned a special gift all his own.”
that is, Nyx takes Noct to the beach the day after a stuffy Citadel Birthday Celebration.
SO! Im SUPER FREAKIN LATE, but this is for day 1, Gifts/Afterglow. of the NyxNoct weekend....two days late lol...sorry. Obviously I chose “Gifts” and since apparently im dumb i only thought of actual ones lol
For day one of the @nyxnoctocalypse nyxnoct weekend! And for Noct, because he deserve nothing but good things~
“Happy birthday, baby.”
“It’s not my birthday yet.”
“It’s close enough, isn’t it?”
The clock on his desk is only a few short minutes away from midnight. Noctis sighs but smiles as he sinks back into his pillows. He’s looked forward to this call all day. Nyx promised it to him among littered kisses of apology before he left. Still, even as that mellow voice carries through the line, Noctis longs to hear it in person. To see the devilishly handsome face that matches it. Cozy up to that warm chest and tip his head up to thank him with a kiss.
Today marks the sixth day since Nyx was sent over the wall. It’ll be seven by the time he wakes up tomorrow. Noctis doesn’t know much about the assignment, and he’s pretty sure that only makes things ten times worse. Not knowing gives his head free reign to fill in the blanks, and often those blanks are filled with endless unfortunate scenarios. Scenarios in which Nyx returns grievously hurt or, even worse, doesn’t return at all.
Texts exchanged during Nyx’s brief moments of respite keep him a little sane, but nothing’s more comforting than the sound of his voice. It discredits every ridiculous fear his brain presents to him. Though, Noctis didn’t expect to miss him more than he already did as soon as he heard it again.
“Fine, but it’s not going to be that happy.”
“Not with that attitude, little king. I want you to have a good birthday, okay? You know I’d be there if I could.”
“Yeah, I know…” the disappointment in his voice almost betrays it, but Noctis would never even think about holding any of this against Nyx. “Sure there’s no miraculous chance you’ll come home early?”
“Still scheduled to come home Friday by the looks of it.”
Noct supposes coming home the day after his birthday isn’t as bad as two days after. Maybe he should be grateful for that, but he can’t help but feel a bit deflated. They were meant to have plans tomorrow after his respective time with his friends and father. Now he’s got little to nothing to look forward to after that.
Just a lonely apartment. A colder bed. A more restless night than usual. Noctis hasn’t missed any of those things since Nyx came into his life.
“I miss you…” he curls onto his side, hoping he doesn’t sound too clingy. He’s harbored the thought to himself and felt it clog up his chest for days. He needs Nyx to hear it even though he’s sure he already knows it.
“Miss you too, Noct. Every day.” Nyx says it so delicately, like it’s some sacred truth that could shatter the world should he utter it too loud. “You haven’t been worrying about me too much over there, have you?”
“Trying not to,” he yawns. “You don’t exactly make it easy for me sometimes, hero.”
“I’ll have you know I’ve been on my best behavior just for you.”
Nyx did promise that to him as well before he left. It was a promise accompanied by a kiss to his forehead, hands secured at the side of his neck, thumbs gliding along the edge of his jaw. Noctis remembers the way conviction glittered deep in those steel-blue eyes. He trusts those eyes and that promise more than anything, but he still couldn’t stop worrying.
Perhaps he won’t be able to until the moment he gets to jump back into Nyx’s arms.
“Really?” Noctis says it skeptically on purpose. “No visits to the medical tent today then?”
“Nah, but now that you mention it… I might be coming down with something.”
“With what?” He frowns. He was only teasing the first time, he didn’t really want there to be anything wrong. “You don’t get sick often.”
“I know, but I’m a lot thirstier for you than I usually am. I think the dehydration’s kicking in.”
Noctis blinks at the statement, momentarily trying to process whether he heard it correct or not. What Noctis is certain he can hear, despite the silence between them, is Nyx’s stupid, smug pride. He’s too proud of that line. Noctis doesn’t need to see his face to know that.
He shakes his head and bites his lip to contain a laugh. “What –”
“Yeah hi, can I get a tall drink of Noctis to go?”
That one breaks him, turning his snicker into full on laughter. He muffles the fit into his pillow and covers the side of his face with one hand. Never has Noctis been immune to the ridiculous things Nyx said sometimes. Being without that for almost a week does nothing but make him more susceptible to them.
It’s been days since he’s laughed this hard anyway.
“There’s the sound I’ve been itching to hear all day.” Nyx chuckles on the other end.
“You’re so cheesy,” Noct manages amid his subsiding laughter.
“You still love me, though.”
“Yeah,” he smiles to himself. “Somehow I do.”
He loves him to no end. In ways he couldn’t even comprehend. The sensation of it was always so raw, like a fierce storm sinking from his chest to the pits of his stomach. It’s a rush and a comfort. His adventure and his anchor. Also, the one thing keeping his brain from falling into a rabbit hole of panic. Not just about the imperativeness of Nyx’s safety, but about being moments away from being a year older. A year closer to inheriting the crown.
That fear’s become harder to ignore on the eve of his birthday in recent years. It takes distractions, routine breathing exercises, and the thought of spending much needed quality time with his loved ones to keep it all at bay.
How Noctis wishes he could spout his frustration off to whatever cosmic force dared to keep the staple of it all away from him. This little love he’s lucky enough to indulge in is exactly what he needs on this one night that counts the most. It’d be so much better if Nyx were physically here next to him. Though he probably shouldn’t dwell on it too much, lest the universe, gods, whatever, try to punish him further for it.
Noct will make do with Nyx’s voice no matter how much his heart aches for more.
“Hey, what time is it?” Nyx asks.
Noctis peers over his shoulder mid yawn in time to see the clock turn midnight. He stares at the numbers for a moment, already coaching himself to breathe deeply. “It’s midnight.”
“Happy birthday for real this time.”
Noctis can hear the smile in his voice and it steals his attention away from those numbers. He turns back ono his side, pulling his blanket up to his waist. Breathe and focus on Nyx’s voice. That’s all he needs to do.
“Thank you,” he says quietly, the corner of his lip twitching up.
“I’m going to make it up to you for missing your birthday, Noct. I promise.”
“You don’t have to make anything up to me, Nyx. You just have to come home.”
“That I have every intention of doing. I’ll kiss you so hard when I do.”
“Is that all?” he asks pointedly, petting the cold, empty space next to him. Six, if he could have Nyx here now, kissing him silly till he forgets he’s even a prince. If Noctis could just let go as Nyx slowly –
“Definitely not, but I gotta keep some of it a surprise, don’t I?”
Noctis blinks and hastily releases the sheets he apparently clutched into his hand during that train of thought. Screw gratefulness and the possibility of the gods punishing him further for complaining. A week without Nyx affects him on too many levels.
“I can’t wait,” he says, voice becoming heavy with sleep like his eyelids.
“Tired, baby?”
“Mm, a little.” Nyx’s beautiful, doting voice isn’t helping either now that he thinks about it. He rubs at an eye with his free hand and settles further into his pillow.
“You should get some sleep.”
Noctis shakes his head defiantly. “Don’t want to. I want to hear your voice. I miss it.”
“Want to talk till you fall asleep?”
“Please.”
“I have a funny story for you. It involves Crowe messing with Tredd this morning. Again.”
“Do tell.” Noctis smiles into his pillow and reaches for a loose one nearby to hold close to his chest. He sets his phone down next to him and presses the speaker button. Nyx’s voice fills the room as he gets into his story and Noct hugs his pillow. The setup isn’t perfect, but it’s the closest he can get to pretending Nyx is right next to him. Warm, safe and happy.
They spend the next hour exchanging anecdotes from the past week until they end up talking about the most trivial things. Yet it’s the most important conversation he’s had in a week, keeping him at ease and far away from pesky thoughts of the crown. Noct’s half surrendered to sleep towards the end of it. Nyx’s voice comes as a soothing buzz in the back of his consciousness.
He hums once or twice when he thinks he hears him calling his name. He thinks he hears laughter, one final birthday wish, and a soft “Sweet dreams, little king.”
His dreams are only sweet because Nyx is home in them. Bringing him coffee, kissing him and lazing in bed without a single care or responsibility.
How disappointing to rouse the next morning, reach across the sheets and feel no one next to him. Noct’s brows crease, eyes remaining closed as a groggy whine sounds from his throat. He retreats into his slumber, hoping to meet Nyx in his dreams once more, but he doesn’t. He dreams of nothing.
Hours later, his senses are assaulted by pleasant smells and strange noises. When his eyes peek open, he’s surprised to see light coming in from the hallway. He turned everything off before bed, didn’t he? He thought he didn’t leave the door too wide open either.
There’s an extra blanket draped over him as well. It’s one he knows he left on the couch in the living room, and it’s tucked all the way up to his shoulders. Noctis blinks at it curiously and then hears a faint clank from outside his door.
It sounds like it’s coming from the kitchen. Noctis remembers what he smelled a minute ago. Something sweet and savory from what he can tell. Breakfast. Definitely breakfast.
Iggy? He asks himself. It makes sense. He’s gotten birthday breakfasts before, but Ignis usually asks for his preferences. Had he missed a text from him yesterday? Noctis turns onto his back with a yawn, pawing at his pillow for his phone. Something crinkles beneath his arm when he grabs it. He pulls away startled and turns his head, eyes wide open now.
A small bouquet of blue violets rests next to him, wrapped neatly in tan paper and clear cellophane. Noctis sits up at the sight, palm hovering hesitantly over them. He’s careful as he brings them into his lap, glancing back at his open door. Iggy…? No, Ignis hasn’t given him flowers since he his stay in Tenebrae all those years ago. Prompto and Gladio have never given him flowers for as long as he can remember. It would’ve been syllelblossoms if it were Luna.
Noct turns the bouquet over in his hands to search for a tag or a card, but there’s nothing. He reaches for his phone again to check the date. It’s not Friday. He did not sleep through his own birthday.
Sure enough, his phone tells him it’s Thursday. But Nyx said…
There’s a promising sizzle beyond his door, beckoning Noctis to pull himself out of bed with his flowers hugged to his stomach. Hope twists into his chest as he quietly steps out into the hall. The tantalizing aroma of coffee, cinnamon and bacon hit him all at once. Noctis pauses to take in a big whiff of it.
Then he peeks around the corner. There’s an array of food set out on the counter – a huge stack of chocolate chip pancakes resting on one plate, a curling wisp of steam indicating them being fresh from the griddle. A plate of toast is just across from that and Noct feels his mouth watering the second he recognizes that’s where the cinnamon’s coming from. Cinnamon toast drizzled with icing. A medium pan filled with scrambled eggs is lined up next to the one with golden hashbrowns. There’s even a small plate of sausage links and a bowl of fruit.
Sitting right in the middle of the delightful spread is a plush black chocobo. Tied around its body is string leading up to three balloons, each with vibrant birthday wishes printed on them. Noctis steps into plain sight, covering his mouth as something squeezes in his chest.
The best part of it all has his back to him, reaching to turn off the oven top.
“Get out,” Noctis blurts, grinning wide and dopey. Nyx turns around with a pan of fresh bacon in hand, greeting him with a smug quirk of his lips as he sets it down.
“And here I thought you’d be happy to see me.”
“Get out!” Noctis bounces on the back of his heels, laughing giddy like a child on a sugar high. One second he’s standing across the way, by the next he’s warping right into his glaive’s arms. Nyx catches his weight with a startled yelp, failing at maintaining his balance.
They collapse together, breath expelling from Nyx’s lungs once his back meets with the kitchen floor. Noctis’ flowers plop down next to his head while the prince buries his face into his neck to stifle his joyous laughter.
“Ow…” Nyx’s own laughter bubbles up behind his groan. “Ow, shit. Wow. You really did miss me.”
An understatement, to be honest. Noctis proves it when the only response he can manage is his hysterics. He nuzzles his face against the stubble he’s longed to feel for days. It makes the hair on the back of his neck rise when it brushes his ear. His fit dwindles down into sporadic giggles and Nyx’s arms come around his back to hug him so hard it hurts.
Gods, does it hurt so good. Gods, does Nyx smell so good. Like cinnamon and leather. His voice sounds better, too, when it isn’t altered through the cell’s microphone. Noctis lifts his head and looks straight into Nyx’s eyes, shaking his head in disbelief.
“Surprise, little king,” he says, a smaller smile upon his lips.
“How?! When I talked to you on the phone – I even asked you-”
“So by some miraculous chance, we did everything we needed to do and Drautos gave us the okay to come home early. I was home for about twenty minutes before I called you.”
“You ass!” Noctis shoves at Nyx’s chest, getting a chuckle out of him. “Why didn’t you just tell me?!”
“And miss all of this?” Nyx alludes to their current predicament and lets his hands slide down to his hips. “Nah, it was better this way.”
“You suck.”
“Yeah,” Nyx grins, one hand coming to the side of his neck, fingers scratching into his scalp. “I missed you too.”
Noctis leans into the touch, eyes falling shut as he purrs happily. He doesn’t have the right words to tell Nyx how much he missed him, only an avid urge sending chills down his spine the more Nyx plays with his hair. He opts to show him instead with a hungry kiss, bringing a surprised noise out of Nyx. He adjusts seconds later to keep up with Noct’s lips, returning them in full.
Good, because Noct didn’t forget Nyx saying he’ll kiss him hard for even a second.
“I made you breakfast,” Nyx says breathless as Noct nips at his lower lip teasingly. He sits up, careful to keep Noct in his lap as he scoots back against the cabinets. He grabs the fallen bouquet of violets and hands it to him.
“It smells great. You bought me flowers, too...” Noctis hugs them to himself again, staring down at their deep color like they’re the most precious thing in the world.
“You like ‘em?”
He nods. “I love them.”
“Good, because I spent half the ride to Insomnia trying to figure out the best last-minute gift I could get you.”
“You bought me flowers…” Noctis says appalled and looking up from them, “and balloons. A chocobo plushie. You made me a big breakfast. You came home a day early with no major injuries from your stupid hero antics…”
“Hey –”
Noctis grabs his face to cut him off with another kiss. The gentle press of his lips assuring Nyx of every ounce of appreciation he holds. This is the single damn thing he wanted. The tangibility of Nyx’s physical presence confirming his safety. Noctis needs no more or less. Everything else is merely a heartwarming bonus threatening to bring tears to his eyes.
That’s the thing about his relationship with Nyx. It’s always the simplest things Noctis holds dear. The most mundane moments that make his heart scream with content. Though, this is far from mundane to Noctis. It’s the missing piece to the perfect birthday. The one thing he was prepared to curse the gods and the universe for should they keep it from him.
“You’re here for my birthday. You’re safe,” his voice softens on the last word, thumbs stroking over scruff. “Nyx, that’s the best gift I could’ve ever asked for. Thank you.”
The violets get squished between them when Noctis leans back into him. He wraps his arms around the back of his neck, resting his head on Nyx’s shoulder. He feels Nyx smirking against his skin before kissing his cheek.
Rating: General Audiences
Archive Warning: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings
Category: M/M
Fandom: Final Fantasy XV
Relationship: Noctis Lucis Caelum/Nyx Ulric
Characters: Nyx Ulric, Noctis Lucis Caelum, Gladiolus Amicitia, Prompto Argentum, Ignis Scientia, Titan (Final Fantasy XV)
Additional Tags: Warning: Blood Involved, wounds, self-inflicted, Lucian holiday, Bonfires, spiced drinks, fall sunsets, worshiping astrals, Offerings, Slow Burn, Strangers to Lovers, Strangers to Friends, Prophecy, Explanations, Time Travel, Confusion, part of a larger AU that's coming, lost temples, Secrets
A03 Link: http://archiveofourown.org/works/13029882
Summary: Noctis was at a disadvantage; he’d been flung over two millennia into the future. Not only did he have to deal with the stark reality of a kingdom, he’d once been destined to rule, very much changed. But of countries, beliefs, and languages he’d never knew existed.Without speaking, all of them accepted they would have to give the man a bit of leeway. After all, any information that was given, even information thousands of years old; was something that could be used.
Thanks to @grimmvertigo who beta'd this for me and helped me make sense of it. :)
Written for #HellionHolidays: Theme, Fall: Lucian holiday (make up your own!), Colors of the season, Bonfires, Fall sunsets, Spiced drinks
This is an introduction piece to my new AU, Sleeping Prince, which I'll be putting out soon. Please leave feedback, I love feedback! :3
-*-
Noctis glanced over the map, seeming almost confused until a wave of recognition came to his eyes. “Here,” he stated, looking up at the group of men around him. “The temple is here.”
“Are you quite sure?” Ignis asked. Witnessing the affirming nod, Ignis leaned over the hood of the car to get a better look at the area he’d pointed out. “There is a statue there if I remember correctly.” Bespeckled eyes fell on Nyx as he frowned. Ignis knew the man understood his meaning without the need for words.
Unfortunately, others in the group weren't as well versed, or nearly as tactful. “Out with it.” The glare Ignis shot their newest companion could have been daggers, for all the annoyance he held back. While the man was the son of the King’s Shield and would be a benefit in battle, he knew little of the world outside the walls of Insomnia. “So, are ya gonna explain?”
“Since Mr. Amicitia insists I be frank, I shall humor his request.”
“My names Gladio…” He corrected.
“Mr. Amicitia, may I give you valuable advice that may come in handy throughout your lifetime. When it comes to some situations, at times subtly is far better than running headlong without thought.” Hearing the man huff, he brought his attention back to Noctis and shook his head lightly. “I know you are confused, you have been brought to a time and place that is not your own. So I must be the bearer of bad news, your highness. While a temple may have stood there at one time, I am confident nothing exists there but ruins of forgotten wars.”
Nyx, who had only been listening up until now, regarded the blonde of their group as he bounced around the Hammerhead store. Prompto had been sent in to gather the supplies that Noctis had requested on their arrival at the small outpost, while he and Ignis tried to figure out where they were going based off information that was outdated by a few millennia. Observing their companion making his way up to the counter, Nyx glanced over at them before crossing the few steps that separated him from the map and checked the location as well.
“It’s been two thousand years, Ignis. If Noctis says it’s there, it’s there. After all, the King told us to take him where he wanted to go. That is where he wants to go.” Pulling his eyes away, Nyx glanced back at Prompto as he came out of the store, bag in hand. “Did you get everything Noctis asked for?”
“Yep!” His chipper voice echoed under the metal roofing that provided shelter for the gas pumps. Setting the bag in the front seat, Prompto glanced at the prince. “Well, for the most part. Um, they didn’t have candles.”
“We will have to make due,” Noctis answered, bestowing the man with a gentle smile. “After all, if what Ignis says is true, we may find no altar to place them upon.”
Briskly nodding, Prompto paused and gave them a look of confusion. “Huh? So where are we going then?”
“I believe we are off to Keycatrich Ruins,” Ignis replied as he grabbed the map, slowly folding it into a precise rectangle before depositing it into his leather pouch. “If the prince’s recollection is accurate, it seems a temple to the Archaeon once stood upon that spot.”
“Oh cool!” Hopping into the back with Nyx and Noctis, Prompto grabbed the seat in front of him and hauled himself closer to Ignis so the man could hear him. “You know dude; it kinda makes sense?”
“It makes sense, how?”
“Well,” Dragging out the word for a moment, he plopped back into his seat. “I mean think about it. We go on many hunts and always run into those strange buildings that are locked. The um, what were they called?”
Gladio glanced back and smirked. “The Tomb of the Ancient Kings, in general. Usually, each tomb has its own name, after the King who’s buried there.”
“Yeah, those,” Thinking for a moment, Prompto fiddled with his hair. “well it seems like everytime we find one there is something really important near it. But then we go to others, there's like, nothing. So, ya know, maybe at one time there was something important but it’s been destroyed.”
“I, well, yes.” Ignis stuttered, meeting Nyx’s eyes in the rearview mirror. “I believe our little sharpshooter has a valid point.” Nyx could only nod in agreement as they pulled out of the gas station and they made their way to the Prairie Outpost.
A few hours, a bit of rock climbing, and five complaints later the small band stood upon the hill that rose above the ruins. Before them stood a statue in ruins, a building lay close beside it in equal disrepair with another building set further back in a field. Noctis stood there, face pensive, his lips pressed into a thin line as he took the sight in.
Ignis, having never been there, looking concerned. “Noct, is this what you sought?”
A slow nod was his reply as the prince started walking towards the ruins that were set further back. As he did, Noctis motioned to the monument to his left. “He, the statue… was the Keeper of the Landforger. Protector of the Temple of the Archaeon, the first Priest of Titan.” The grass and leaves crunched underfoot as they pushed through the overgrown brush that had flourished since the area had been abandoned. “I remember, back in my time, people would travel for days to reach the temple. There were thousands of tents covering the valley below, their bonfires and torches lighting up the night. The celebrations would last for a week, but it was the equinox that we paid worship to him. When the light of day was equal to that of night, we would come here and honor the God of the Earth.”
“Never heard of a celebration for Titan.” Gladio pushed back a few branches, permitting the group to pass as amber eyes looked over the rubble. “My dad recounted the old stories to me, but none of what you’re saying came up. They are known as the slumbering gods now, and we do worship them, but not like you say.”
“It’s a shame.”
The shield seemed agitated as he released the branches. “What, that we don’t live how you lived? Sorry if we don’t meet your expectations, your highness, but this is who we are now. Ever since you woke up you’ve been judging us, and how we live our lives. Well, our bad, but lot's changed since you decided to take your little nap. Welcome to the future.”
Noctis paused, glancing back at Gladiolus. He beheld the man with, what seemed to be, a sense of disapproval. Yet, upon closer inspections, it was simply a look of sorrow. “While I respect your bravado when it comes to your kingdom, you are correct. Time does indeed change many things. I do not look down on your people for how they are, it’s merely a shame that so much has been lost to time…” Turning, he started to walk again, “and to lies.”
The remaining walk was spent in silence as all reflected on the spoken words of the prince. In many ways, it was hard for all of them to comprehend where Noctis was coming from. While the four of them were of different nationalities, backgrounds, and beliefs they knew of the world around them. They could understand one another.
Noctis was at a disadvantage; he’d been flung over two millennia into the future. Not only did he have to deal with the stark reality of a kingdom, he’d once been destined to rule, very much changed. But of countries, beliefs, and languages he’d never knew existed. Without speaking, all of them accepted they would have to give the man a bit of leeway. After all, any information that was given, even information thousands of years old; was something that could be used.
Pulled from his thoughts as Noctis quickened his step, Nyx hurried to catch up. “Hey now, little prince. What’s the rush?”
“This is it, the seat of the Archaeon!” What formerly was a stately temple, was now little more than a pile of rubble and brush surrounding a single stone room that was roughly two tents wide. He turned to look at Nyx, the excitement in his actions obvious. “What I anticipated lost, remains below!”
“Remains below?” The questioning in Ignis’ voice must have caught Noct’s attention as he looked over and nodded. “Are you saying, the temple is below us?”
An amused expression crossed his features, a light laugh pulled from his lips. “He is the God of the Earth. Where do you think we would worship him,” Motioning up at the stars that had begun to show above, he arched a brow. “the sky?”
While Ignis took that in and realized that, yes, it was indeed logical. Gladio had pushed past the group, a large broadsword appearing in his hands. “Stands back, I’ll clear the door for you.”
Doing as asked, Noctis bowed his head. “Thank you, Gladiolus.”
The man nodded, using his weapon and brute strength to clear the entrance within a matter of minutes. “It’s dark. Daemons?”
“Impossible,” The prince walked over and looked within. “this area is Astral bound, holy earth. Blessed by the Goddess of our star, Eos and her sister the Goddess of Death, Etro. No evil can pass through or desecrate such a place.”
“So in short, were safe?”
Glancing up at the Gladio’s comment, Noctis affirmed his words as a smile ghosted his lips. “We are safe. Though I cannot promise so outside of this building. Much has been lost to time, so the seat of the Archaeon may be all that is left protected.”
As they entered the narrow room, Prompto looked back, noting the sun would be setting soon. “Hey um, guys? This took longer than we thought. If we are gonna make it back, we should leave soon.” But the others didn’t seem to share his concern, more interested in the small staircase leading downwards near the back of the room.
“Recommendation?” All looked at Gladio. “Don’t mind staying here if you know it’s protected. Still, I would feel a hell of a lot better if we check the area first. Any sign of daemons, we hightail it back to the outpost.”
“Agreed Gladio,” Motioning to Prompto, Ignis held out a hand. “I believe a bit of illumination is in order.”
“Yeah, totally.” Pulling out a few extra flashlights, they forged their way down the old stone steps that seemed never-ending. “Wow, how deep does this go? Stairs they go on, forever they go on. On and on and on. ♪”
“Prompto, honestly.” While Ignis sounded annoyed, Nyx couldn’t help but let out a chuckle as Gladio shook his head. Reaching the bottom, Noctis felt a hand on his shoulder holding him back. “Allow Gladiolus and Nyx to check the area first, just to be safe.”
Staying by his side, the prince glanced around and took in what little he could see with the light present. “It seems the old torches still reside, can we light them?”
“Yeah, I don’t see any daemons. Normally a place like this would be a breeding ground.” Making his way back over, Nyx looked at Noctis. “We have to make a fire, I can go back up? Grab some of the brush and dead branches that we passed?”
“If you would Nyx, and Gladiolus can you assist him?” The man nodded as both made their way back up, leaving Noctis, Prompto, and Ignis down in the darkened room. “How long has he sat in this endless night? In my day the torches and candles of worship would have set this place alight. He has truly been forgotten.”
“Not forgotten, as you were told by the King of Lucis upon awakening. He saved us from a cataclysmic meteor that would have destroyed Eos. Titan now sleeps within the Disc of Cauthess, that meteor still sitting upon his mighty shoulders. Those of Duscae think highly of him and worship him for his deeds.” Acknowledging his words, their attention was once again pulled to the stairs as their companions approached once again.
Gladio and Nyx set up the fire to the left of the stairs and lit it. While it didn’t brighten the room up in its entirety, tones of yellow, brown and orange began to shimmer in the darkness. The group was quick to gather any torches that remained, lighting them, before setting them back into the holders along the wall. As the light in the room grew, so did the details carved into the walls. Ancient symbols were written in the astral language, words of protection and prophecy. Great carvings cut into the very stone of the walls, and jewels in varying shades placed with care into the sculptures.
It was exquisite to behold, and the prince couldn't help but catch his breath when he saw what remained at the end of the room. The altar was carved from the same rock as the room, six pillars encircling it, standing taller than any man present. Each was carved from a precious stone, to represent the Six who watched over them. They noted the foremost one was of golden-yellow, representing Titan, himself.
“My word,” Ignis let out a quick breath, eyes locked on the beauty of it. “would you look at that?”
“Now that is amazing, dude. I have to get some pictures, am I allowed to do that?”
“Damn, to think all of this has just been sitting here.” Gladio glanced at Nyx as he spoke. “Thousands of years and we never even knew.”
“Yeah, and to think there are five more just like this somewhere out there.” He responded, looking at Noctis who had moved over to the packs they had been carrying. “Are you ok?”
“Yes, but there is a great deal to prepare. I must cook the ceremonial drink, make an offering and complete the ceremony of blessing before the sun rises once again.”
Kneeling down beside him, Nyx placed a hand on his shoulder which made the man glance up at him. “I got ya, but you’re not alone. The King asked us to bring you here, so let us assist you, ok?” Those words compelled the prince to relax as he nodded lightly. “Iggy’s one of the best cooks out there. He can assist you with the drink. What do you need for the blessing?”
“You wouldn’t understand…” Nyx tender hand cupping his face stopping his words as their eyes met.
“Try me.”
Biting his lip for a moment, Noctis nodded and let out a breath. “Dirt.”
“Dirt?” Gladio snorted, finally tearing his eyes away from the beauty of the place to look at them.
“Dirt.” The word was repeated as he sat back on his heels. “You must give what is most precious to you. A farmer must give from his fields, a blacksmith, from his metal. But I am…” Breathing out, dark eyes glanced over at the altar. “I am nevertheless a Lucis Caelum. I descend from the blood of the crystal that lights the world and will never die. What can we give?” He looked past Nyx to meet Gladio’s eyes. “We devote all we are to our people. So it is our land and our blood that we hold precious, it’s all we possess.”
“Fucking hell.” Nyx stood up, shaking his head as he smirked. “I get ya, little prince.”
“Wait, hold on. What do you get?” Nyx glanced over at Gladio as well. “You seem to understand this kid, so why don’t you clue in the rest of us?”
“Look, I don’t know if he got it from us, or we got it from them. What can a tribe give when all they hold dear is the land below their feet and people they protect? Blood and soil.” Gladio’s mouth opened, then closed as the words sunk in. “Nothing is more precious than the blood that runs through your veins and the lands you protect. Gotta remember, Gladio. You’re playing by rules that are over two thousand years old when dealing with him. Times have changed, but I would think you still comprehend the concept of honor?”
“Of course I do!”
Patting his shoulder, Nyx started for the stairs. “Good. Iggy help him with whatever it is he needs to cook up. I need to get some soil.”
By the time Nyx returned, the scene before him had changed. The sleeping bags had been laid out around the fire, and a collapsible cooking spit set over the fire. Prompto sat beside Gladio on one of the beds, flipping through the pictures he’d taken, after securing Noctis’ permission. The prince and Ignis kneeled beside the two metal pots as they spoke quietly. The smell of roasted stew mixed with the cloves, berries, and oranges of the spiced drink hit the hunter as his stomach growled.
“Hungry?”
“For your cooking, always Iggy.” Nyx made his way over to the prince, setting a cloth pouch tied off with string beside him. “Dirt. Hope you appreciate what I do for you,” His eyes went to Ignis, “and why is the bedding out?”
“Ah yes.” Motioning to the men around him, Ignis went back to stirring the stew. “We spoke during your absence. It seems that Noctis is quite right, and daemon cannot enter here. The majority ruled, and we have decided it would be most efficient to camp down here for the evening.”
“Majority meaning all of you and I don’t get a say, huh?” His words were teasing, and his friend simply brushed them off. Looking around once again, Nyx nodded and sat down on his bedroll. “Well it’s a good plan, and no one comes out here so we should be left alone.”
Soon the smell of food permeated the air, and all of them had moved a bit closer to the fire, awaiting the meal that had been prepared. Noctis helped by dishing out the soup as Ignis pulled out some bread Prompto had picked up in Hammerhead. Once everyone had some, the room fell silent, only the happy sounds of munching could be heard.
“Hey, Noct?” Scooting a little closer, the blonde grinned up at him as Noctis shoved another spoonful of soup into his mouth. “So that drink you made? When do we try it?”
Swallowing, he sat the spoon in his bowl. “It is a special drink that is given before one performs the blessing ceremony to Titan. Are you asking to complete the rite alongside me?”
“Um, sure dude why not!” Seeing that he hadn’t been expecting that answer, the prince let out a laugh. “What? I mean, can you like even do it alone?”
“While it is uncommon, yes you can. Giving the situation, I believe the Archaeon would recognize my position and forgive me. Anyway, you would have to provide an offering.”
“Oh! Can do, buddy!” Yanking his bag over, the blond pulled out a packet. “So like, I guess my thing is pictures. It helps me remember stuff, so I can give him one of those.” There was uncertainty in his eyes as those oddly colored violet-blue orbs met the princes. “I mean, do you think he’d like it?”
Noctis teared up, coughing as he looked down at his bowl for a moment. “I think Titan would find it appropriate.” The words were whispered, but his appreciation was clear as he glanced back up. “The very fact that you wish to learn my ways, I… thank you, Prompto.”
In the end, all four had decided to complete the rite with the prince, seeing how important it was to him. Each finding something of themselves they could offer up to the Astral. Now they stood close to the fire as Noctis finished up the explanation of how the ritual would proceed. “I am no Priest of Titan, but I will perform the rite as well as I can.” Handing each a cup, he filled it with the hot liquid. “Please, do not drink until the time has come. Just do as I do, as I have instructed you.”
Ignis looked at the other three, then nodded. “Understood, we trust you Noctis.”
Bowing his head, Noctis made his way to the altar of Titan as the other four remained a few feet behind him. They stood there quietly when suddenly one of the most lovely tenors Nyx had ever heard exited the man's lips and echoed through the chamber. It created a reverberation within the room that was one of the oddest sounds the man had heard in his life. Orange, yellow and brown gems within the walls pulsed with power. The room glowing bright and dim as Noctis continued the song that had no words, and yet seemed to speak volumes. Then the trembling came, it wasn’t a violent crash but a gentle rocking that seemed to sweep through the room then recede.
“Nu mañ vaju jachu fax chadañ!”
The deep voice seemed to come from everywhere, and yet there was no presence other than the five of them. Looking upon the altar, Noctis held the cup up with both hands. “It is I, Noctis Lucis Caelum. First son of Regis Lucis Caelum, the Third King of Lucis. Blessed of Shiva, Beholden to the Goddess Etro, who reigns over life and death.” A rumbling occurred once again as the four looked at one another, but the Prince didn’t falter in his words. “Chosen of the crystal to become the King of Kings, that our light may forever shine and see the scourge, and the accursed be abated!” His words were greeted with silence, dark eyes closing. “I have come seeking your blessing upon the fall equinox, as all of my blood have done since the rise of Solheim. Will you accept?”
It seemed as if they were holding their breath, the stones around them continuing to pulse with power. But it was the silence that reigned.
“Noctis.” Nyx went to move, an odd feeling filling him, telling him that he should be at the man's side. Seeing the prince shake his head, Nyx stayed where he was.
“I have done all you urged.” His words were a whisper, but the room amplified them. “I know I have failed once, and the Gods saw fit to take all I knew away!” Noct’s voice hitched, eyes squeezing closed. “I have nothing left but the prophecy that the Gods placed upon my shoulders as a child. I will fulfill my calling, but you must have faith in me!”
Once again there was silence, and then a rumbling. “Gud…”
Letting out a shaky sigh of relief, Noctis nodded and drank from the cup in his hands. The other four did as well. “God of Earth, Archaeon, mighty Landforger. I beseech you to recognize this offering for it is all I am and all I will ever be.” Setting the dirt on the altar, he opened up the cloth it had been wrapped in, then grabbed his knife. “The land that I preserve, the people that I have been sworn to safeguard.” Wrapping his hand around the blade, he pulled quickly as blood flowed from his closed fist onto the dirt. “The blood of my line, the name of Lucis Caelum that was granted to us by the crystal. This I give to thee, Titan Lord of the Lands.”
Bowing, he stepped back as the others went up to the altar and uttered their names. They, also, left their gifts but Nyx seemed more concerned with Noctis than trying to win over an Astral's favor.
As they made their way back to the fire, Nyx held out a hand. “Let me see the wound.”
“I’m fine.” Noctis seemed tired, drained now that the rite had been concluded.
“That wasn’t what I said, or even asked.” Hauling him over to their camp, Nyx pushed the prince down onto his bedroll and rummaged through his bag. Grabbing a potion, he saw Noctis shake his head. “Let. Me. Help. You.” When it was obvious the prince wouldn’t oppose him further, Nyx started to clean the blood away. “So, wanna explain all that?”
“Not really."
"Fine, then suffer in silence." That got Nyx a look, but the younger man soon gave in.
"Some Gods are harder to convince than others. Due to what occurred before I… slept, It is obvious a few may feel my failures are not yet forgiven. They may not be as willing to speak or recognize my words.”
“Fuck em.” Noctis hissed as the hunter pressed the cloth against the cut. “You do what you need to do, don’t let them hold you to some higher standard. You’re never going to please a god, and you’re smart enough to know what has to be done. Anyway, the King asked us you help you out for a while… and until he says otherwise I plan on doing that. Not that I needed a great deal of convincing, it’s obvious that you need someone to watch over you.”
“Do I?” He was amused, and a bit flatter as well. Not that he would admit the last. “Your concern and continued help are appreciated, Nyx Ulric.”
“Good. You’re stuck with me, little prince.” Seeing that the wound was clean, Nyx poured a bit of the potion onto a fresh rag and pressed it to the wound. “Stop hurting yourself to make them happy. Understood?” Hearing a light yawn, Nyx glanced over at Noctis as he nodded.
Moving a bit closer, the prince curled up against his side as Nyx continued to clean the myriad of cuts on his palm and fingers. “I hear your words, and shall follow if you wish it.”
“Stubborn brat.” Taking his time to wrap each cut, Nyx allowed Noctis to fall asleep against him.
When the sun rose the next morning, the five men made their way down from the demolished temple and followed the path back to the outpost. Borrowing the camp to make a hurried breakfast, by noon they were back in the Regalia and heading down the road to Insomnia. There were still many things they needed to acquire so Noctis might fulfill his destiny. Hopefully, the current King, Regis, would have more for them to look through upon their return.
Title: Freestyle
Pairing: Nyxnoct
Event/theme: Nyxnoct Fluffocalypse, Day 4: hobbies
Summary: When your boyfriend is a major Assassin’s Creed geek, it was destined that you’d eventually have a date with it as the central theme. Princes and their hobbies, right?
@nyxnoctocalypse
There was a special sort of mortification that came from your friends discovering your interests, especially if they weren't shared. With Prompto, there was a lot in common. Video games, comics—of a comfortably shared variety that only best friends could have in common. With Ignis, it was a little tougher; sure, he indulged the prince with times nods, approval, listening as best he could even though the interest just didn't seem wholly there. With Gladio? Not so much. Beyond being his Shield, barriers of interest existed there, too.
Now, the ultimate level? Getting your boyfriend in on it.
Your boyfriend who happened to be a busy Glaive who didn't have the disposal income enough to haphazardly throw it into whatever hobby or video game videos that toddled along. Noctis had learned that the hard way when he'd tried coaxing Nyx into picking up World of Warcraft, only to sheepishly learn that he didn't have a rig powerful enough to run it, nor the extra funds to maintain the monthly membership fees.
Lesson learned.
That didn't mean Nyx couldn't come and spend a rainy day at his apartment, right? It was something they adored doing, traipsing between their homes and spending time in the city when princely duties weren't keeping the prince from seeing his boyfriend. That, and Glaive duties on Ulric's end.
Noctis startled from his thoughtfulness when a rapping sounded at his door, messily scampering to his feet as he slid on his socks to a halt before the door, a bit of puerile elation lighting his face before he peered through the peep hole to see who it was.
Seeing a certain Galahdian in flannel and jeans caused his heart to leap, maybe a little too excitedly. “Okay, cool—“ he murmured to himself, trying not too appear too enthusiastic.
Swinging the door open, Nyx had no time to say hello before Noctis unceremoniously grabbed Nyx by the sleeve and yanked him in with a bemused smile catching the older man's features. The inertia seemed to be enough to briefly close their bodies together, Noctis impishly winding his arms around the older man's neck and kissing him enthusiastically.
An inquisitive sound emanated throatily as Nyx took a moment to adjust and smile into the kiss, winding his arms around the small of Noctis' back and cant his head to kiss back just as deeply. “Hello to you, too,” the Glaive grinned, Noctis leaning into him with a grin just as giddy. “So, what's the grand agenda today, Highness?”
Noctis gazed at him with a brief look of pensiveness on his features, taking both of Nyx's hands and holding them with hopefulness in those sapphire blues. “Promise me you won't laugh.”
Nyx quirked a brow. “Can't make any promises if it's a joke.”
“For our date, what if we went around the shopping district, but...just not in the usual way?” Noctis hinted with a puckish smile on his face. Had Nyx been anyone else, it likely would've been waved off as ridiculous. But Nyx had this synergy about him that Noctis adored, like he could bounce off ideas and find a complementary match.
The smirk only seemed to grow on Nyx's face, mischief twinkling in those stormy blues. “I dunno, highness. That might mean you having too much fun. You sure your buddies wouldn't mind?” He folded his arms, releasing Noctis when the prince grinned again and raced down the hall into his bedroom.
“Hang on, wait here!” Noctis shouted from his room, rummaging through the contained chaos signature of it. Finding them draped on the bed, he raced back into the living room with two red-lined, white hoodies that didn't seem tremendously special to Nyx, but by the way Noctis beamed, it surely seemed to be. “I got these from Roen's stall back at the Assassin's Festival from a few months back. Can you believe it? Actual replicas of Desmond Miles' hoodie, down to the sticking. You know, the white one? From Assassin's Creed in all those modern segments.”
Nyx eyed them with an approving smile, one inevitably larger due to the Glaive's own height. Though he wasn't exactly keyed in completely with the story, but from Noctis' own happy ramblings on the saga and playthroughs when they spent rain nights in together, it garnered his interest. Didn't seem too much different from what he did as a Kingsglaive, even though assassinations weren't exactly their specialty.
“So, we going incognito tonight? Leaping from roof to roof?” Nyx replied with a growing smile, always glad to see Noctis so enthused and not feeling abashed for it. It certainly would be a little less mortifying than donning Bayek's Medjay robes in this weather, this much was certain.
“Yeah, you bet!”
It didn't take long for both men to don their new attire, Noctis bristling with jocular excitement as he dramatically pulled the hood over his head, attempting the smirk signature to the assassins in the series. He availed himself in the mirror, replete with the shoulder bag slung across his back and the baggy jeans, though Nyx was happy to remain in what he wore over his lower extremities. They both hitched the subway to the shopping district in the east side of Insomnia, a place seldom frequented, but eager to sojourn to. With their hoods drawn over their heads, there was the added advantage of concealment Nyx found advantageous, especially given how it was often for the better that Noctis be disguised from his geekier inclinations.
“There's this scene when Desmond's escaping Abstergo—it's during the second game, I think. You know, during Ezio's trilogy? When he was escaping with Lucy Stillman. Wait...no, I think that was another game. Brotherhood, maybe?” While Noctis pondered over the details, Nyx kept his eye on the LED screens that indicated their stops. Of course, he wasn't exactly zoning out from Noctis' excited chatter. He was interested in being part of his life outside of their respective duties, hobbies included.
The bell rung when their stop was reached, Noctis almost bolting through he was so excited. “Hang on, Auditore. Think we might want to plan this out a bit first.” Though most might not think it, Noctis had taken lessons in parkour to the side. Useful to navigating a cityscape when Warping was too conspicuous. The terminal wasn't too crowded with people, Nyx guiding the rambunctious prince where it wasn't too crowded. Nobody seemed to be coming down the down escalator much at all. In the grand station, Sunday nights didn't see much activity, which was advantageous to them.
“Race ya!” Noctis suddenly crowded when he took off at a low sprint, leaping on to the rail that guided the escalator down and tip-toeing up it with ease, arms barely needed to keep his balance. Nyx laughed as he set off after him, leaping on the opposite as both men crossed paths in their ascent, looking acrobatic as several people caught on and began filming with their smart phones, Noctis snickering when he realized he and his boyfriend would be trending on Wark tonight.
Once they emerged from the underground, Noctis bolted and leapt on the back of a bus that was beginning to pull away, clinging to its bike rack that was fortunately empty. “Nyx, over here!” Noctis called as it began picking up speed.
“Fucking Six—“ Nyx cursed to himself as he raced after Noctis, leaping just in the nick of time to Noctis clapping him on the back.
Deciding it was better to follow Noctis' lead, they rode on the precarious transportation before the prince nodded sharply and allowed his feet down enough to gingerly gauge an appropriate stopping point. Slowing around a bend, he ran for a few strides before letting go and dodge-rolling from the path of an oncoming car. Its horns blared, but Nyx simply smirked in a cavalier fashion before leaping back on to the car's hood with indignant shouts from the drivers, then somersaulting off and into a street corner where Noctis waited.
“Hey, you alright?” Noctis asked breathlessly as he laughed, helping Nyx to his feet, leather gloves saving him from bruised and bloodied palms.
“Yeah, think so. Where to next?” Nyx replied, smile admittedly elated as he stole a quick kiss before Noctis playfully shoved him away, laughing jubilantly. Gods, this was more fun than he'd had in awhile.
“Up there—slowpoke!” Noctis called retroactively before bounding away towards a scaffolding and hefting himself through an open gulf, scrambling to his feet again as he rounded the exterior and shimmied his way upwards.
Nyx called out something indignant before he bolting after him, more or less following suit of the energetic prince as he was already ascending a pipe that jutted from the facade of the building. It wasn't long before they met halfway on the twelve story building, almost colliding into a fire escape they'd been racing upwards on. Nyx was almost shoved off, but wormed his way out and beat Noctis to the punch.
“Not fair!” he called up after Nyx, the older man laughing at Noctis' consternation.
“Aw, come on, Highness! You've always liked my ass, so enjoy the view!” Noctis admittedly blushed at that, but furiously renewed his pace with vigor as he found another angle, racing upwards between the protruding windows that provided fantastic purchase. Smugly, he hefted himself over the ledge and hefted himself over and collapsing, breathless, on a bed of pebbles waiting. Unfortunately for him, Nyx was already waiting for him.
“Best two out of three?” Noctis offered with a breathless smile, evolving into a grin when Nyx sat himself on Noctis' back, the prince barking out strained laughs under the strain of Nyx's weight. “Get off, lard ass!”
Nyx re-positioned himself when Noctis rolled on his back, the Glaive straddling his hips with a smug grin. Before Noctis could rebut, he leaned down and snaked a deep kiss from the prince, the price of his victory. When Noctis shoved him away again, he made a face. “You're still an ass.” Feinting, he quickly capsized Nyx and rolled them over, Nyx grunting when he did. “Best two out of three, like I said.” With that, the warmth on his pelvis lifted, Noctis hopping to the ledge as he smiled with a challenge in his eye. Spanning his arms, he smirked rougishly and leaped from the roof in a free-fall, something below muffling the impact of his fall.
Determined to win another kiss, Nyx yanked his hood back over his face that had been upset in their playful scuffle.
“You can bet on it, Noct,” he murmured to himself before Warping from the roof to meet the prince in their renewed race once more.
