*slams door open, bringing the kitchen utensils and the margaritas*
MY SISTER IN HOBO TRASH JESUS, HE WHO DID NOTHING WRONG IN HIS ENTIRE LIFE.
I NEED YOU TO COOK UP SOMETHING WITH PROMPT N*5(just a drop before going to sleep lolol) FOR THE NSFW PROMPT LIST.
AND I NEED THE MAIN INGREDIENT TO BE THE HOBO JESUS, FIRST OF HIS NAME, HE WHO CAN NEVER BE PARTED FROM HIS HAT, MR. WALK-WALK FASHION BABY HIMSELF.
5.leaning back with their legs spread apart as they ask, with a smirk, "are you just going to stare, sweetheart?"
I HUMBLY REQUEST THIS.
VERY HUMBLY.
VERY DEMURELY.
@nemo-of-house-morning-star MY SISTER IN GUCCI BAG TRASH JESUS HELL-ER! 😂💀 *takes whole ass margarita and downs it* HOW FUCKING DEMURE OF YOU TO BREAK DOWN THY DOORS AND ASK FOR FILTH...I have plenty to go around 👀 take a hit 🚬
FOR EVERYONE ELSE...
Surprisingly, it didn't take long for Ardyn to get excited at the prospect of bedding you.
It began innocently enough: a spark of flirtation, quick banter, a curse or two. Then Ardyn's mouth was on yours, his tongue learning your taste. He nipped your lips now and then, fingers tightening around your waist with a hunger that edged on tenderness—like a serpent clutching its warm prize. He was as desperate to consume you as he had been desperate to dominate the conversation that led here, and you melted under that insistence.
All you could do was hang onto his coat, letting his breath give yours meaning with every tug and press of your mouths. The kiss was relentless until, unexpectedly, he gave a low, surprised whimper and broke away just enough to let the ghost of his breath brush your face, lingering on your swollen bottom lip. You can smell the red sylleblossom spice on his skin—warm embers tempered by a sweetness—and for a moment, you're convinced of being held by a dragon as his amber eyes bore into yours, asking thousands of questions you had no answers for. The pressure had stolen your air; black dots danced at the edges of your vision, and your legs trembled.
"Would you—" he breathed, voice low and shaking, "may I?"
Gods, his eyes. They made your knees go weak. You nodded without thinking, surrendering to the heat of the moment. Your mouth found his again, and you let the invitation stand. Your hands tangled in his red hair as he tried—and failed—to steer you both to the bedroom, settling for the living quarters instead. The couch became its own private world.
Clothes shed, touches grew more intimate, and as euphoria swept through Ardyn, something else surfaced too: old scabbed memories that shouldn't have anything to do with this. He hadn't intended for this, to have you in this fashion—wouldn't, by his own rules, but instinct pressed on. He tasted guilt like bile: the thought of what exposure might mean, the scourge that had shaped him whispering its cautions. The idea of endangering you with his bodily fluids made him hiss between kissing your neck, both disgusted and strangely aroused when your moan pulled him deeper.
For a moment, he thought he heard Aera.
Gods, Aera…
Losing her had taught Ardyn never to drift into bliss where flesh was concerned. Violence was detached, useful. But sex—sex was dangerous, another beast he kept locked away. His focus had to remain on the greater design: Niflheim, Lucis, Eos itself. Distractions had their place, of course—little games to make eternity’s chains bearable, cruel jokes at his own expense. But even now, with your body under his, he laughed at himself bitterly: because you were no game.
He had told himself, again and again, that you were a distraction—just another one. A mantra to starve impulses he refused to feed. But gods be damned, he couldn’t deny it: the way you made him feel, even with only fragments of his truth laid bare. He loathed you for it, and he desired you all the more. He didn’t deserve this—didn’t deserve you—and there were countless ways it could end in tragedy. Yet for once, he no longer cared.
Anything left of his restraint eroded. He leaned back on the couch, breath quick, chest rising and falling as desire tightened inside him, his cock twitched in anticipation. You stood above him, discarding the last of your clothes, holding the power of choice between you.
When you looked at him, he saw his own hunger reflected in your eyes, and something like trust glimmered there. Ardyn grinned, half-smirk, half-plea, drunk at the sight of seeing you naked from head to toe.
"Are you just going to stare, sweetheart?"
He chuckled when you smiled and shook your head, glancing away before daring to look at him again, drinking in his form. His body quivered, as though the daemons he kept caged inside were straining to tear free and lunge for you.
You’d be lying if you claimed you weren’t afraid—and you knew he was too, beneath the bravado and hunger. Yet when he returned your earlier nod and shifted, opening himself wider, it was not a threat but surrender. He was offering you the choice he never had: to step into the fray on your own terms, to take the reins of your own fate. At your mercy, he would follow you to the very end.
Ardyn's eyes devoured you as you lowered and swung a leg over, straddling him fully. The motion wrung a sound from his chest, and you felt the tremor in his clenched hands as he fought the urge to seize your hips and pull you down. Still, he waited—letting you dictate the pace.
The heat of his cock pressed hard against your inner thigh, the sheer ache of it undeniable. Anticipation burned between you until you leaned forward, your forehead brushing his. His whimper vibrated against your lips as you kissed him—and then, with deliberate slowness, you sank onto him.
The stretch stole your breath. Ardyn's groan broke into something raw, guttural, your name torn from his mouth as though it was the only word left to him. His restraint shattered, hands gripping you as though the gods themselves might drag you away, but still you moved, claiming him inch by inch, until there was nothing left between you but fire.
You didn't stop when his moans turned animalistic or when the scourge began to darken the whites of his eyes as his thumbs pressed hard into your skin. Every kiss he gave, every drag of skin on skin, pulled you both away from the fears that plagued the mind. By the time you gave in to Ardyn entirely, riding him with abandon, his body rising to meet yours, both of you gasping and clawing for more, there was no room left for hesitation.
Here, beneath the dragon’s wings, the world ceased to exist. Heat and shadow wove their cocoon, and nothing remained but the rhythm of your bodies, his voice breaking against your skin, and the inferno that refused to let go.
I have some particularly surreal and not so pleasant dreams (where I fade in and out of sleep) and during that I can vocalize by grunting, toss and turn, and flail around for a few and usually before I wake up so can I have hcs of ignis, ravus, and ardyn and they would handle it? Oddly specific but I know I am not alone in this I just how often it occurs
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I’m not sure why, but I feel that each of them would be similar in this situation. They’d each stroke your hair and try to calm you, having woken up next to you. They’d be groggy but jump into action at seeing you having such bad dreams.
Ignis may try to hum to sooth you.
Ravus may try the hardest to wake you from your dreams.
Ardyn would simply pull you into his arms while you were still sleeping, as he is the most familiar with having horrendous dreams.
Imagine just being wrapped up in each man’s arms, their concerned eyes focused on you. Each would be relieved when you finally woke up. Each would let you talk about the dream, if you wanted, but none would push too hard.
Ignis would try his hardest to find a way so that you don’t have to experience those dreams again.
Ravus would vow to be with you through all of them.
And Ardyn would simply hold you, knowing that they will come back eventually.
To some, what you go through would simply be a bad dream and a lack of sleep, but these three men would understand that dreams reflect our mental state and would take this far more seriously than most.
They would hold you, their forehead pressed to yours, until you finally fell back asleep. Then, each would vow to watch over you and give you the best life they could.
A/N: Rant piece. I needed to work out some negative feelings. I still think Ardyn is incapable of caring about anything except himself, but it doesn’t mean he doesn’t understand.
“Oh dear.”
You sat quietly staring out to sea, not turning your head to face the man who had appeared beside you. “Go away.”
Ardyn breathed in deeply, pausing for a moment before answering with a, “No.” He moved to sit leisurely beside you, looking out over the water.
You didn’t want to say too much. He was smart and you knew he knew you were at your most vulnerable state. The thoughts swirling in your mind were not ones you were fond of, they were truthful thoughts of how you felt, but it wasn’t what you wanted to feel.
Used. Taken for granted. Underappreciated. Unwanted. Unliked. You craved attention when you felt you weren’t the kind of person who wanted attention at all. The contrast of emotions and thoughts were vast and you knew if you said one wrong thing Ardyn would jump at the opportunity you created for him.
Ardyn sat silently beside you and it was unnerving. Most of the time he had something to say about everything—all the damn time. His being silent was more frustrating than when he opened his mouth. You finally turned to him. “What do you want? I’m too tired to fight and if you haven’t noticed, I’m alone.” You gestured to the empty space around you. “The Prince and his friends aren’t here.”
And then you realised your mistake, as did he. Ardyn’s lip curled and you grit your teeth. “”The Prince and his friends’.” He repeated slowly. “But aren’t they your friends? The last time we spoke you referred to them as such. Has so much changed?”
It was a slip of the tongue. Of course they were your friends and you called them as such and you loved them with all your heart—your everything—but it was just a slip of the tongue. You loved them, gave them everything, but it was exhausting, wasn’t it? You gave them everything and—
“Why is it that you are alone when you should not be, I wonder?” Ardyn continued, “It’s clear to me that you are in need of some support. Where are your friends?”
They weren’t with you. It wasn’t their fault, they had known something was wrong, but you didn’t want to worry them so you said you were fine, but why did they believe you? No, that’s not the right way to think, you should have told them you weren’t feeling like yourself, you should have been truthful.
But they were your friends. They should have known. If they really knew you, if they were really your friends, then they would have—
No! Stop thinking this way.
You suddenly stood up and strode towards the beach. Your shoes dug into the sand with each step and for a split second, you wondered if the earth opened up and swallowed you whole if anyone would even care. You gave so much and got so little back, what was the point? They’ll just replace you with someone else who could give and give and use them up too. They would take and take and—
There was a strong grip on your wrist and you were pulled back. Ardyn had followed you and you had expected him to have a smug grin on his face or some kind of expression of joy at seeing your tortured state of being, but his face was impassive. There was a flicker of something in his eyes, something more genuine than the hollow darkness you had always seen in him. “Join me.”
There it was. Even if you had suspected it was his intention to ask you, it was still a surprise to hear it. You stared at the man, forgetting the answer you were meant to give for a moment. “Don’t be stupid. My loyalty is to Noctis, the True King.”
Ardyn let you go, feeling that you wouldn’t run from him. “Ah yes, the True King that does nothing to appreciate you. One that is so used to your independence that he does not care for giving you the gratitude or the respect you deserve.” His lip curled. “Neither does his little servants. You give so much and ask for nothing, but it is sad that there is no equal effort in appreciation. They all take and give not one thing back in thanks.”
You wanted to say something—anything—but the thoughts in your head clashed again and again. He wasn’t wrong, but he was wrong. It wasn’t that you were always unhappy or they really did take everything from you—that was lie, it was—but then why did it feel like you cut away pounds of your own flesh to give when they didn’t do the same?
But isn’t that on you? You’re the one giving, just stop.
Just stop.
It felt like someone was choking you with how tightly your throat closed and you breathed deeply to try and ease it. “Get away from me, Ardyn.” Your words were firm even if everything else of you was weak. You knew he understood, but you wouldn’t be pulled down into his dark misery. You didn’t want to drown too.
“Join me.” The man persisted. “I cannot promise you that will not feel the despair that you feel now, but I can promise you the power to punish those who have thought nothing of you when you have thought everything of them.” Ardyn understood how you felt. He didn’t want you feel the way you did, not because he truly cared about you, but because he hated seeing you like this. It reminded him too much of things that had started his journey of revenge and retribution.
Images flashed in your mind—vengeful and wrathful indulgent images. Would they see you and respect the strength you held if you crushed their soft throats with the heel of your boot? Fear was a kind of respect and they would certainly feel the fear seeing you tear open their chest with your fist.
But as soon as you had seen them in your mind’s eye, you shred the thoughts into pieces. No.
You still felt unappreciated, unwanted, unloved, crushed and cracked and broken, but you wouldn’t punish others for how you felt, even if they didn’t help things. “You chose this Ardyn—my loyalty is with the True King.” You turned on your heel and began to walk away, making your mind up on what to do to help yourself.
These feelings would never go away. You would always give because it was in your nature to give, but you couldn’t let the undeserving ruin it for the people you would meet who were deserving.
Maybe.
And what do I get, for my pain?
Betrayed desires, and a piece of the game
Even though I know, I suppose I'll show
All my cool and cold, like old job
Despite all my rage I am still just a rat in a cage
Y/N was a simple Scavenger of Lucis, until meeting a deadly blow at the hands of an infected creature. At the crossroads of death, they are found by Niflheim’s cryptic Chancellor with his own agenda. Now bonded to Ardyn Izunia, and tossed into the world of Niflheim, Y/N struggles to cope with their new life as an Imperial Icon all the while battling their feelings toward their fate and that of Ardyn’s.
Click here to read on AO3
Crouched upon the edge of a clocktower, Ardyn's eyes followed countless men and women running out from the main chambers of The House of the Courts. As he crept in the shadows--taking in the outbreak of screams and gunfire--he was able to piece together the chain of events via babble from the masses. This dangerous affair had been concocted by the anti-imperialist group who attacked a week prior. He had come to learn that the wedding only infuriated the tensions within the faction, and the leaders decided unanimously to attempt a coup against Madam Secretary and her council.
Ardyn hadn’t seen such chaos in a long time, and found himself enthralled with what lurked beneath. He considered it somewhat of a travesty none of this was his doing. What he wouldn’t give to knock Camelia down a few pegs via terror and confusion! Alas, he humbled himself. Ardyn had many grievances with her over the years, but Camelia was useful. At the very least compliant with his and the empires overarching goals. She knew better. Ardyn couldn’t say the same for the anti-imperialists who yearned to take her place. Their anger held no bounds from what he gathered after spying about on his lonesome.
“My, my…choices, choices,” Ardyn sang to himself and frowned. He knew this skirmish wasn’t his circus, and therefore, not his problem. However, he did the math. With how intertwined Accordo and Niflheim’s economies had become, a coup succession would hurt the empires bottom line. An unprecedented event of this making could spur Lucis to take back their lands, and inspire Tenebrae to pull a similar feat. Therefore, Ardyn knew he couldn’t stand back and risk the coups success with overthrowing Camelia. This rival faction didn’t seem the type who could be reasoned with, much less manipulated.
“Better to keep a tight leash around an old obedient hound than deal with a younger pup who is nothing but bite.” Ardyn bitterly mused. He wanted nothing more than to flee. To be on an airship heading back home with Y/N. The sooner he could nip this fiasco in a bud, the sooner he could do just that.
Ardyn’s thoughts were interrupted by a commotion coming from the South. He watched with piqued curiosity as a group of Imperial ambassadors fled with some of Madam Secretary's council toward the main entry point. There were two Accordian troopers frantically attempting to seal it shut so neither foe or friend could get inside for shelter.
“Don’t close the doors! Please, don’t close the doors! Let us in!” One of the women screeched.
“Then hurry! We can’t afford to let anymore of those bastards get inside!” A trooper screamed back.
Not far behind, Ardyn witnessed a fleet of fifteen rebels with guns shooting recklessly toward the direction of his fellow Imperials. They were about a hundred feet away, and gaining traction on their targets. If he could get to the ambassadors, and find out where Camelia was, his mission would be halfway done.
“No better place to start,” Ardyn purred with a dark chuckle. He stood up, concentrating his powers on movement and in a shadowy mist he disappeared and made his descent.
Reappearing behind a large column, Ardyn turned the corner to observe his surroundings. He didn’t account for there being so many Accordo troopers and anti-imperialists fighting left and right on ground. While he could take advantage of the disarray, and rush to meet with his fellow countrymen, it was too risky of a feat to pull at this point. If he wasn’t so concerned with concealing his true self, Ardyn saw plenty of opportunity where he could’ve used the royal arms to his advantage.
“Damn it,” Ardyn muttered. He watched the large doors close from afar as the last ambassador managed to jump inside. He began to look around for another point of entry, and zeroed in on a hole in the wall that had been created via an explosive. He made a run for it, using shadow step minimally so he couldn’t be perceived by ally and foe alike. Luckily everyone was so caught up with killing one another, that he made it without surprise.
Ducking in, Ardyn crawled a little ways before he was on the other side. He motioned with his right hand, summoning his sword Rakshasa, and swiped at the crevice he exited from. Rubble came tumbling down, and covered the spot. Thus ensuring no one else could use the hole to their advantage.
Gripping the hilt of the sword, Ardyn brought Rakshasa close to his face and began to murmur in an ancient tongue. The blade hummed in return as he felt its energy pulse according to instruction. In a matter of moments, Rakshasa had taken the form of a regular Imperial sword; losing its Lucian touch and signature color.
“Apologies old friend,” Ardyn frowned. “We can’t afford to make a grand entrance here. I’m afraid you’d tell Madam Secretary far too much.”
Although the crimson blade by no means had a conscience, there was a life force within that responded to Ardyn’s words. He could practically feel the residue of resentment coming off the weapon as he bounded for the west hall upon following the sound of gunfire. Whether it was his own projection or not didn’t matter. Sword and master would have their pound of flesh.
The havoc within the central chamber of the House of the Courts had knotted into an onslaught of bullets meeting shield, and skin meeting daggers. Men and women bravely screamed out the names of gods and curses before plunging into a pit of bodies vying for power. Souls soon met their ancestors as gurgled screams and death rattles danced into oblivion. The Imperial soldiers who had come to rescue their representatives were losing ground, and fast. The anti-imperialists were not like Niflheim’s Lucian foes. No. These folks were a different breed, and the way they carved out man after man downright terrified everyone who remained. Across all faces, hope was losing the edge of its flame.
Suddenly--as if the gods themselves had called for a ceasefire--everyone stopped mid attack. The air became dense with a foreboding on par to the crunch before lightning would strike. An Imperial soldier and anti-imperialist who had either blade to throat stared into each others eyes. Both shared the same confusion as they communicated without words their mutual fear. This energy wasn’t a friend to anyone, and both parties found themselves fixating on the west hall as the rhythmic sound of heavy boots drew close.
All eyes fell upon Ardyn as he sauntered out from the shadows of the west hall. He carried himself with a prestigious air that was unbefitting of someone rushing to battle. In his right hand was an imperial sword, already bathed in the warmth of blood. His left hand was illuminated by a dark sphere with bright blue static pulsating within the center. The playful poise of his movement matched the aura that a higher Imperial would ooze at the climax of an extravagant event.
“I must say that I’m quite dispirited,” Ardyn tutted. The dark sphere in his left hand became more erratic as bolts of electricity zipped between his fingertips. “To think no one invited me to participate in this riveting performance! I just love coups and conspiracies!”
“The Chancellor?!” One of the rebels exclaimed.
“Ah, yours truly in the flesh!” Ardyn replied with bravado as he gave a performative bow, never losing balance with weapon nor the ticking time bomb in his left hand. His smile sent shivers down both friend and enemy alike, for it was just as sinister as it was charming. “I so hate to interrupt this little quarrel, but I too would like to dance!”
As Ardyn hissed, he unleashed the sphere upon the center of the room. Within seconds, the sphere ignited into an explosive black hole. Amidst an outburst of screams, Ardyn used an ability akin to warp strike to quickly usher his fellow Imperials out of the danger zone, and to the next room. In a blink of an eye, every Imperial was teleported and tossed. The anti-imperialists left behind met a fate worse than death. Out from the sphere, electric tendrils manifested and forcibly grabbed everyone it could. Bodies were slurped into a dark void that proceeded to batter and tear limb from limb. Wails hauntingly bounced all throughout the room as some begged the gods to make their suffering cease. It went on for ages it seemed, until a crude silence slipped through the cracks.
The Imperial soldiers whom Ardyn rescued stared with utter shock at the door as the screams dwindled. Dread didn't hold a torch to the visuals that plagued everyone despite not seeing the conclusion play out.
“What the hell was that?” One of the men gulped. He was quite startled when Ardyn suddenly patted his shoulder.
“A daemonic application prototype, courtesy of our esteemed Chief Besithia! I reckon that needs to be tinkered with. I myself felt nauseous watching everything unfold." Ardyn feigned a grimace then smiled. "Nevertheless, it did its job keeping us safe! Wouldn't you agree?"
The soldier nodded rapidly. “T-thank you for saving us!”
“Think nothing of it! A pleasure to be of assistance to my fellow man!” Ardyn replied in a jovial fashion. He gave one last pat to the soldier, nearly knocking the man forward unintentionally and cleared his throat, earning the attention of twelve men and women who stood in awe.
“I know you all must be exhausted, but would one of you happen to know the whereabouts of dear Madam Secretary and our fellow associates?”
“Last we heard, Madam Secretary was barricaded in her office. The rest are hiding in the lower basements."
That was quick… Ardyn thought as his eyes narrowed to the woman who responded. “Do you have a body count of how many anti-imperialists remain in the House of the Courts?”
“Fiffty-two sir,” She nodded. “That’s not counting the sixty-five that were allegedly on Madam Secretary’s tail before we showed up.”
“We can work with that,” Ardyn hummed as he contemplated.
“Sir?”
“I’d greatly appreciate it if you distinguished braves would follow my lead from this point forward,” Ardyn smiled big as he began to dictate his commands. “I have a plan to fetch us out of this terrible ordeal!”
--------------------------------------------
“Madam Secretary, I don’t think we can hold them back for much longer!”
“If the doors fail, we all die! Keep trying!” Camelia bellowed. She and several Accordo and Imperial councilmen were aiding soldiers in a desperate tug of war. Everyone pressed their bodies into furniture and whatever else was heavy in front of her office doors. The high pitched taunts of the anti-imperialists from the other side was deafening. The noise crushing morale and hope.
While Camelia hadn't the unfortunate pleasure of encountering a daemon in her long life, she imagined her adversaries awaiting her on the other side had the same bloodthirsty nature. She lost count how many times she tried to reason with them. To try and be civil, but nothing had been gained. Camelia's heart ached for her country, for she sympathized with each and every man who was gunning for her execution. The people were tired of Niflheim. Tired of being under the boots of tyrannical men while watching their government grow more subservient. Tired of playing the middle ground between Lucis and the empire. Tired of it all.
"A hundred years of war is long enough!" many had shouted, and Camelia knew the people were right. Alas there wasn’t a damned thing she could do. Not when at the end of the day, Niflheim had enough weaponry to destroy Eos a hundred times over. How could these rebels see that their actions were futile? Even if they killed her out of retribution, and taken over the country, did they truly expect Niflheim would turn the other cheek toward their transgression? Camelia’s eyes began to water as she visualized it. Her country which she loved with all her might, being swallowed by whatever horrors that hid in the lands of the empire. She couldn’t believe it was going to end like this.
The horde continued to strike with one blow after another. Camelia could only guess they were using a battering ram at this point given the sudden power behind the hits. The soldiers who were manning the barricade wouldn’t be able to keep up. Another six strikes and everyone in the office was fair game. Camelia began to sweat as she felt her body lurch forward from another impact.
“Keep holding!” Camelia commanded with utter ferocity.
As soon as the words were shouted, suddenly--like ghosts returning to the land of the dead--all became silent on the other side of the door. Not one war cry nor the mighty echo of of a gun going off could be heard. It was an eerie silence. Like one that would arrive after somebody took their last breath. Camelia’s mind was rushing fast. She didn’t know if she should’ve been terrified, relieved, or both.
Slowly one by one, Camelia, the soldiers, councilmen, and ambassadors moved away from the barricade. Each cautiously eyed the tables, shelves, and other items they had used at the last second. Nothing moved, nor gave indication that pressure was coming from the opposing faction.
“Madam Secretary,” One of the councilmen spoke up. “What should we do now--”
Boom.
An explosive barge swung the doors wide open. Pieces of wood and debris splintered off as the barricade had become a chaotic mess. Camelia threw up her arms to shield her face. There was a split second during the commotion where she had the epiphany perhaps this wasn’t the wisest choice. Gods, she envisioned how it would go down: the rebels would crawl through, and she’d meet her end by a sword to the stomach or to the throat. The rebels weren't feeling mercy's justice to put a bullet through her skull, that was certain.
A minute later, when neither came, Camelia cautiously lowered her arms. To her bewilderment, she saw Imperial soldiers running through and securing the area. To her left she watched as the wounded were tended to. To the right, the Imperial ambassadors were preparing for escort.
“What in the six hells…?”
“Your valiant heroes have arrived to your aid!” Ardyn exclaimed with his arms gestured out in a grandiose display of dominance. He smirked knowingly at the fact he interrupted Camelia mid thought while he stood where the doors once were.
“Chancellor!” Camelia exclaimed.
“At your service as always, Madam Secretary!” He lowered his arms and grimaced while side stepping out of the way of a corpse that was near his feet. “A word of caution, you may want to tip your servicemen handsomely for the clean up later. There's quite a bloodbath to be reckoned with!”
Camelia glared. “Is this really the time to be meandering, Chancellor?”
Ardyn looked up and smiled as he made himself at home. “My sincerest apologies! It’s not everyday people in power like ourselves are handling the strife of the common people taking up arms. By the way, you’re quite welcome for the impeccable timing on my part. Your humble adversaries were inches away from tumbling through your little fortress.”
“You have the gratitude of everyone in this room I’m sure, Chancellor,” Camelia sighed as she began to compose herself. While the immediate danger was more or less purged, she still had her guard up around Ardyn naturally so. For all she knew, he could take advantage of this calamity for his own gains. “After the last attack it was discussed all Imperials and associates were to evacuate Altissa. How did you end up getting caught in the quarrel?”
“As wise folk once said, plans change.” Ardyn sighed. He glanced around the chambers, making note of the damages and wounded every so often. After accounting for the necessaries he hummed before responding further. “I couldn’t very well leave my fellow countrymen behind to a gruesome fate! That wouldn’t bear well on my conscience, and I strongly felt running off would’ve soiled the relations we painstakingly built with the marriage ceremony.”
“I’d argue your reasoning was beyond reckless,” Camelia was about to issue a counter response, but alas relented. Accusing Ardyn of only serving his best interests wouldn’t help the current situation. Especially not when he validated it himself.
“In any case,” Camelia began. “It’s good you’re alive and well.”
Ardyn grinned momentarily, basking at hearing Camelia confess such a beautiful lie. “And likewise to you! Would it be too much trouble to ask at this moment, how history repeated itself today?”
Camelia furrowed her brows. “Beg pardon?”
“Allow me to rephrase, how did this all come to pass with the same group that attacked earlier this week?"
“Well,” Camelia rubbed her head while she ruminated. She was finding it difficult to retrace her steps. Her mind still disturbed at how it all transpired so quick that not even her personal attendants could react fast enough. “I was in chamber two officiating the documents you had sent over by phone, and shortly received word there was a brawl happening in the main courtyard. Next thing I knew, my men were commanding a lockdown, and here we are."
Ardyn frowned while he tutted. The disdain on Camelia’s face from his action didn’t go unnoticed as he let out a breath and ran a hand through his hair, flicking out pieces of debris and gods knew what else he collected during battle.
“It seems I have more cards in my hand,” Ardyn mused to himself. He gestured before Camelia could interject. “This little stunt by the anti-imperialists was a staged coup to usurp your powers and that of the councils.”
Camelia’s eyes widened as she felt her blood run cold. She knew he was telling the truth. Even if the rebels hadn't outright stated their intentions, Camelia and everyone in this room felt it. “Are you absolutely certain?"
“I’d hold my tongue if I were not.” Ardyn admitted.
“Where did you gather this information?”
“I eavesdropped of course, while finding a way to reach you!” Ardyn said as if it were painfully obvious, but with a charismatic jive that lessened the blow. “Angered men surprisingly love the art of conversation. I’m sure you can validate my claim after interrogating the survivors who are left. I’d stake my life on it, Madam Secretary.”
“That explains it then…”
“Hmm?” Ardyn studied Camelia for a time, noting how unsettled she was growing by the second. Whatever clicked into place unnerved her a great deal. Daresay she seemed reluctant to share the revelation that arrived. However, Ardyn knew she wouldn’t be so bold to deny sensitive information that could compromise both parties. Not even if she loathed him. It was a matter of when not if she would say something.
“There was a group of people who allegedly stormed into the House of the Courts while the brawl was being tended to.” Camelia clarified.
“A small group?” Ardyn asked. He was quite surprised at how forthcoming she was.
Camelia nodded. “I was reported a headcount between five and eleven unknown bodies before our communication systems were destroyed. They bore red emblems on their shoulders, black uniforms. I don’t think they were part of main show. That's my guess anyhow.”
“Madam Secretary, a word if you’d please!” One of the councilmen called out, garnering Camelia’s attention.
“Excuse me for one moment, Chancellor.”
Ardyn couldn’t have been more relieved than now to see Camelia venture off, for he felt dread tip toe down his spine. Of course it had to be MedZin. Of course their presence was no mere coincidence the first time nor second, and of course he should’ve been more attentive to the threat.
Ardyn made a fist while mentally begrudging himself. By being so caught up in personal affairs, and considering the anti-imperialist fiasco more or less Camelia’s problem, he neglected to truly consider how dangerous even a small handful of these people were. As Adagium, he had to give credit where it was due: the folk who worked for MedZin were cunning like the very daemons that ran amok in his head, but as a man, his pride was beyond wounded. For a moment, Ardyn felt like he was losing his touch.
“Chancellor,” Camelia spoke out, snapping Ardyn out of his thoughts.
“Yes?”
“The bride from our arrangement has been transported to the hospital with her husband, our good Senator Rodrick. They were caught in the crossfire while on their way to their honeymoon.”
“What’s their respective statuses?”
“Critical condition for the bride, and minor injuries for the senator.”
Ardyn briefly recalled spying in on the conversation Y/N had with the bride last night. Mixed feelings churned while the gentle exchange between the two ran through his mind. For the moment, he was at odds with himself before arriving at a decision.
“I’ll personally see to it that their medical expenses are paid for. You have my word.”
Camelia huffed. “And I assume you wish for something in turn?”
Ardyn shrugged. “Consider it an act of goodwill, courtesy of the empire.”
“Charity then?”
“The bride was one of our own,” Ardyn countered. He made a face and muttered. “And to have such tragedy befall on what was supposed to be an enchanting day perhaps tugged at a heartstring.”
“Whatever your reasons, I’m sure the Senator will be most grateful.” Camelia assured. She was about to ask Ardyn how he managed to storm the House of the Courts with so few men, until an Accordo trooper beckoned interruption.
“A pardon Madam Secretary, Chancellor Izunia--” He was near out of breath and swallowed when Camelia gestured to compose himself. “We just received a piece of vital information concerning how the anti-imperialists bypassed security. The group of men in black who were aiding them have been caught on camera exploiting the clearances.”
Camelia let out a breath, feeling her nerves quake. “They could’ve easily killed us then in one go had they proceeded further.”
“But they didn’t,” The trooper reassured. “Sources are reporting they made retreat soon as they cracked our defenses, and let the anti-imperialists through. Apparently, we weren’t their target.”
Ardyn remained composed, however, inside he was falling apart at the seams. The word target repeated over and over until the very shell of his right ear twitched from aggravation. Like a bell going off, he realized the target had been either Y/N or himself. Before his concern for Y/N grew any further, a dull ache started to coil in his chest. It slithered like a serpent, and with each touch of its scales, burned all that lay upon its path. His right hand trembled as he brought it to his chest, all the while attempting to keep up appearances.
“Chancellor Izunia?”
“I’m alright,” Ardyn lied. He turned his back to Camelia and the trooper. “It must be a minor wound I sustained.”
While he tried to soothe himself, Ardyn looked up. From afar outside the doors, he saw Loqui accompanying one of the battalion captains. He excused himself rather quick, and approached the men. Before the captain or Loqui could conduct pleasantry, Ardyn gestured for them to withhold as his eyes bore into the younger man.
“Did you to tend to Y/N? Did you see them?”
“Yeah, I did.” Loqui nodded. He worriedly glanced over Ardyn, noticing his brow was sweating. “Chancellor, are you okay?”
“Never mind that,” Ardyn replied firmly. “Is Y/N on an airship as we speak?"
“Y/N and Tuti went to the ports together,” Loqui began. He felt so nervous suddenly that he almost stumbled on his words. “The hotel, everything was on fire. We had been attacked. We evacuated everybody that we could to--”
“Attacked?” Ardyn interrupted. “What do you mean the hotel was attacked?”
“This morning,” Loqui stated. “It was attacked shortly after word spread about what was happening at the House of the Courts. As soon as Tuti and I found Y/N, I had them follow the evacuation caravan to the ports.”
“And knowing all this, you saw fit to leave them both to fate?!” Ardyn yelled.
“They were in no danger!”
“How would you know that, you aren’t with them?!”
“Sir, Tummelt was summoned to join the battalion as soon as everybody had been evacuated from the lodging--”
Ardyn held up a finger to the captain. “Not another word!”
“Yes sir, er--sorry sir!”
Ardyn felt his patience running thin, as a deep rage that didn’t belong to himself began to manifest more as the pain increased. The scourge itself was screeching with potent fear. Y/N was in a losing battle with their body, and Ardyn felt each and every stab that came with it. He quickly brushed aside Loqui and the captain, walking fast through one of the main corridors and ignored the sudden pleads of Camelia and the others for him to remain.
"Chancellor!" Loqui shouted as he sprinted after after him. "If I didn't think for one moment Y/N was capable of making it to the airships, I would've gladly abandoned my post and--!"
“Shut up!” Ardyn yelled as he turned his head to the side. He didn't bother to address the shocked faces left behind from his outburst. All he could focus on was this profound sense of anguish that called out to him like a siren luring a man to his fate at the bottom of the sea. He couldn't resist the melancholic sound even if he tried. Not when he knew, no--not when he felt that Y/N was slipping away. Little by little, he could feel it. Their consciousness being consumed by the miasma that highjacked their body for it's own devices; a fate worse than death. He felt the grips of a panic attack breach his defenses as he sprinted without pause.
Y/N was becoming one with the daemonic hivemind, and he was running out of time.
Y/N was a simple Scavenger of Lucis, until meeting a deadly blow at the hands of an infected creature. At the crossroads of death, they are found by Niflheim’s cryptic Chancellor with his own agenda. Now bonded to Ardyn Izunia, and tossed into the world of Niflheim, Y/N struggles to cope with their new life as an Imperial Icon all the while battling their feelings toward their fate and that of Ardyn’s.
Click here to read on AO3
Two years before the fall of Insomnia…
Eos’s night sky was scattered with stars and bustling with vibrant colors. Purples and blues danced side by side in the cosmos while constellations signaled their presence. There was a robust earthy scent throughout the Duscae region, symbolizing that the spring rains had dwindled down. Even with the engine of the car roaring, Ardyn occasionally heard Anaks and other creatures let out their nightly bellows and chirps. The Lucian kingdom was always active. Life could flourish in even the darkest of crevices. Even someone such as Ardyn himself.
Static began to chime from the Vixen’s radio. Ardyn adjusted the frequency so he could listen in.
The war continues to rage between Niflheim and Lucis. The impasse among political leaders is still in effect. It has been reported from King Regis’s councilmen, that Emperor Adlercapt and his advisers have rejected the proposed consolidations. “...We have failed to appease Niflheim’s tyrannical appetite, and we strongly urge the imperial representatives to reconsider our offer.” A spokesperson stated.
King Regis had this to say about the failed negotiations. “...Our doors remain open to Emperor Aldercapt should he wish to meet in the middle. This does not mean the people of Lucis will tolerate this ongoing grotesque invasion from Niflheim. If an inch of Lucian soil is tainted by the empire's weaponry while both countries remain locked in negotiations, I will respond with strength.”
King Regis’s statement has been met with praise and contention. An imperial councilman stated the following: “...The king assumes Niflheim is full of savages. We imperials wish to usher in a new era by spreading our wealth among the Lucian kingdom. Niflheim’s technology and advancements are essential to the world at large, and it is Emperor Aldercapt's wish to ensure the people of Lucis don’t get left behind.”
An imperial adviser who was at the negotiation table between Lucis and Niflheim had this to say regarding the recent fallout. “...The people of Lucis have been grossly misinformed. Emperor Aldercapt has declined to accept anything for now until Chancellor Izunia returns from his leave of absence. As an act of good faith, Emperor Aldercapt will establish a ceasefire, until he hears his final advisements from the Chancellor and his counsel."
It has been reported that Chancellor Izunia has taken to illness. There is no word for when he will return to the Emperor's side.
Both parties of the war have reported feeling relief from the ceasefire recently established. King Regis stated his appreciation earlier this week, giving hope that the next round of negotiations will bear fruit. “...I will forward the courtesy to the Emperor. The armies of Lucis will stand down for as long as the imperials halt their movement. I wish Niflheim’s Chancellor good health while he rests.”
The kingdom of Lucis will be celebrating prince Noctis’s 18th birthday next week. The prince couldn’t be reached for comment. King Regis will--
“Spoiled brat…” Ardyn huffed and turned the radio off. He sighed, having enough of the real world for the time being. His place in the war was important, but in the grand scheme of things it was of little consequence to his personal endeavors. So long as he could get Niflheim from point A to point B, Ardyn didn’t care much about current events or the emperor's trivial affairs. He lazily gripped the steering wheel of his car and made a left onto a back road after coming to the edge of the highway.
The detour Ardyn took was a perilous one. He was surprised the Vixen was able to withstand the intense vibrations generated by the debris below the tires. Every few seconds, the car would bounce, causing his body to shift uncomfortably in the driver's seat. Ardyn gritted his teeth and bore most of the impact. Occasionally a curse would depart his lips, but he was quiet. Had it not been for the companion on the passenger's side, there was no doubt Ardyn would’ve behaved irrationally. At the very least, he would’ve loudly exclaimed his disdain for the road. He wasn't one to shy away from road rage on his lonesome. However, in the presence of company, Ardyn liked to keep up appearances that he was precise and collected. A gentleman by all counts. For the public to see his true colors, it would unravel everything he had worked hard to manipulate.
Y/N was sleeping soundly curled up in the seat opposite Ardyn. The Chancellor's long black coat draped over them like an oversized blanket. Ardyn side-eyed Y/N’s body, turning his head when it was safe to take his eyes off the road. Even in the darkness, he could make out their exhausted features. The spider web veins of the scourge had receded away from their face. He was disappointed that patches remained, but progress was progress. At least Y/N’s color was returning.
“Oh dear,” Ardyn quietly sighed. His shoulders slouched while he leaned back into the driver's seat. From the distance, he could see the first rays of the sun begin to peak over the mountains. It was only a matter of time before his skin would burn from the warmth of the light. At this point in the game, Ardyn was used to it. His cells could regenerate quickly enough to where there would be no long-term damage. It didn’t make the experience any less painful. Alas, Y/N needed the protection of his garb more than he did and thus Ardyn allowed Y/N to continue resting. He could get his coat back at a later time.
Though he was calm, Ardyn was enraged at himself. He should’ve disposed of Y/N. Killing them would’ve been the ultimate act of mercy given how the scourge ravaged their soul. Ardyn could practically feel Y/N’s very atoms call out for release. The daemons and minds he carried in himself debated against his choices. Ultimately, the ends justified the means as far as Ardyn was concerned.
“Ridiculous though, isn’t it?” Ardyn said aloud to himself. He doubted Y/N could hear anything, much less be conscious enough to comprehend his words. “This…wasn’t part of the plan.”
For as confident, as he was, Ardyn didn’t anticipate a wrench being thrown into his plans. The fault lay with him though he tried to pin it on Y/N. He knew deep down the little spark of hope that was his humanity, appealed to his callous nature to take pity on them; to find purpose in keeping Y/N around.
“If this is your doing,” Ardyn bitterly said while his eyes briefly looked up at the stars. “I’ll make sure that you get a taste of misery when the end comes for the brat prince and myself.”
He doubted the dragon king--the great Bahamut--would pay his words any heed but it did erase some of the tension Ardyn had been bottling up.
The past few weeks had been a whirlwind, to say the least. Not that it hadn’t been entertaining . Ardyn’s mission was a dangerous feat and no doubt would cause trouble. He wouldn’t have it any other way. After all, he was a far cry from the healer he once claimed to be. This Ardyn, Chancellor Izunia of Niflheim, thrived on chaos. He wielded it like a child that discovered his parents locked gun, and learned quickly how best to play with fire. In this case, even if Ardyn failed he’d still win in the end. Sabotage and diversion was part of the game and he managed to score both thus far against his opponent. A common foe he shared with Y/N which in turn led him to this odd relationship.
“What am I to do with you?” Ardyn thought aloud. His hardened gaze once more landed on Y/N’s body. The muscles around his eyes eased, and Ardyn could feel himself relax. It was kind of nice having a partner in crime. Not that he’d admit it aloud. As far as Y/N was concerned, Ardyn didn’t want them to get the idea he did them a favor out of the kindness of his heart. No. Every action carried a price. That was how Ardyn viewed his relationships with most. The mentality left little to no room for emotional attachment.
“Yet here you are,” Ardyn muttered bitterly. His hands gripped the steering wheel, concentrating his frustrations into the pads of his fingertips. The Vixen continued to stroll over the endless terrain with Ardyn determined to keep driving until he reached his checkpoint.
Hours passed since Ardyn began his journey, and he settled down at an establishment with Y/N in tow. When asked about Y/N’s precarious state of rest, Ardyn concocted an emotional tale on the fly to the bookkeeper. The story worked its charm and gained the sympathies Ardyn was looking for. The hush money he added as “tip” also garnered him privacy in case his adversaries decided to snoop around.
Once Ardyn placed Y/N on the couch, he looked around the hotel room and rubbed the back of his head. The face he made was one of indifference. The place was shallow compared to Ardyn’s refined tastes, but it would make due until Y/N would wake up again.
Sleep was a commodity an immortal such as himself didn’t need much of, the same could be said for food and drink. Ardyn however needed a break. Laying dormant for a few hours and letting his body be was the best medicine for his current ailment. Having the scourge was a painful curse. Every day for every hour and second, Ardyn’s body was in a state of turmoil. Akin to being stabbed twice over in all the nooks and crannies his vessel contained. If the daemons and minds he absorbed weren’t giving him strife, his physical form took the mantle. Despite being numb to the scourge for 2,000 years, even he had his bad days.
There had to be drawbacks to his immense power, and having the gift of immortality. The Gods needed to have their checks and balances. And on Bahamut’s end, give Ardyn that extra push to carry out the prophecy of ending the Lucis Caelum bloodline. Ardyn understood that even if he didn’t wish to proceed with familicide, living forever wasn’t an option. Not in this sorry state.
While Ardyn made himself comfortable in the room after tucking Y/N in, he grimaced hearing the sound of his cell phone going off. Nonetheless, he was quick to answer the device.
“Are you enjoying your little escapade in Lucis, my friend?” Verstaels' voice cracked with amusement on the other end of the line.
“Very much so!” Ardyn chuckled. He was sitting on the edge of the bed now, kicking off his boots, and shimmied out of his vest while keeping his cell phone pressed between his ear and right shoulder.
“MedZin is in shambles at the moment. Whatever documents they held dear relating to the scourge, and our research has been destroyed. All their drives were wiped along with key witnesses.”
“That a fact?” Verstael mused on the other end then hummed. “I didn’t anticipate you’d be so thorough in such little time given how tight security was reported.”
“It so hurts my feelings you doubt my prowess,” Ardyn smirked. He could feel a sense of pride swell in himself. He loved undermining Verstael’s assumptions. The old man had a dime a dozen these days.
“I made no such proclamations.” Verstael scoffed. “I must say, perhaps you are projecting? I sense from your voice that you are… winded .”
Ardyn glared while he adjusted his cell phone, now holding it like normal to his ear after his necessary clothes had been stripped away. He stretched his legs and grunted.
“I assure you, my friend, I am most euphoric.” Though they were cordial and had a respective friendship, neither Ardyn nor Verstael could deny the cold facts regarding their personalities: that each man had ambition and a large ego. It was inevitable they’d take friendly swipes at the other.
“Given your state of being,” Verstael began. “I assume you won’t be too upset when I inform you that your rendezvous point has been moved.”
“Moved?” Ardyn was appalled. He raised a brow.
“Yes. Moved.”
“I take it I’m not traveling to Galdin Quay as planned?”
“I’m afraid so,” Verstael sighed. “You’ve been out of the loop while playing your role, so allow me to explain what has been going on during your absence. Negotiations between Lucis and Niflheim have failed. Emperor Aldercapt claimed a ceasefire and Lucis agreed to it. While the armies are on break and focusing their efforts toward the west of Lucis, Aldercapt is moving the Niflheim armada to the seas between Lucis and Accordo. Should anything happen, you cannot afford to be seen in that vicinity. As far as Aldercapt is aware, you’ve been at a research lab recouping with my aid.”
Ardyn sighed and rubbed his forehead. He begrudgingly replied. “Of course, our beloved emperor would make such a bold move. He might as well offer the armada on a silver plate to the Lucian army at this rate.”
“For what it's worth,” Verstael interrupted. “I did try to persuade him otherwise. He wouldn’t have it.”
“Nothing I can’t fix when I return.” Ardyn mused. His tone was sly while his mind already concocted ways he could mold this unfortunate situation to his benefit. “I’m positive I can convince Aldercapt to take a more diplomatic approach.”
“That’s the spirit!” Verstael laughed. “As much as I’d enjoy ransacking the Lucians on the coast, it’s definitely not an area I’m keen on destroying. The resources alone are worth more than the armada itself.”
Ardyn was beginning to grow tired of the conversation. The more relaxed he became, the more his mind drifted into a numbing fog. A rare treat for the likes of himself who was constantly bombarded body and soul. Ardyn wanted to relish in it while he could, especially with not having to entertain Y/N while they slept.
“Where can I anticipate meeting with Niflheim’s finest?” Ardyn cut to the chase as the upper half of his body collided against the mattress. His legs continued to dangle off the edge of the bed, toes flexing every so often.
“Head toward Cape Shawe, but keep yourself northbound and inland. There’s a spot with no civilians where an airship can pick you up without detection. You’ll know when you see it. Personal guards will be at your disposal too, led by Commander Tummelt.”
“Grand,” Ardyn murmured. He didn’t have the energy to tell Verstael to be more specific. Not when he was so close to checking out his consciousness. Ardyn prepared to hang up until Vertsael cleared his throat, signaling he had at least one more matter to discuss.
“Did you happen to pick up anything or anyone from your little getaway? It’s imperative I know about it now.”
“Perhaps.” Ardyn chuckled.
“Perhaps?”
“I’m playing with an idea. That’s all I can elaborate on.”
Ardyn tensed. His head leaned up from the mattress, eyes locking onto Y/N who remained sound asleep on the couch with his coat bundled around them. He made a face, knowing he couldn’t remain silent forever nor keep Y/N’s presence away from his militant companion. The old man would find out sooner or later.
Verstael sighed. “This better not become a passion project that’ll get in the way.”
“Oh come now!” Ardyn laughed. “I thought you enjoyed it when I brought unwilling participants into our little schemes!”
“Not denying it,” Verstael scoffed. “But given the circumstances and risk of you being in enemy territory, I’m afraid I can’t ravish the thought.”
“You’ll come around, I’m sure.” Ardyn smiled and while the opportunity presented itself, he hung up and shut his cell phone off. There would be no more interruptions for the night.
Ardyn let out a breath he had been holding back and his racing thoughts dwindled down. He brushed some of his long locks away from his face, letting the deep maroon strands drift across the pillow behind him. He thought about his previous words. The muscles in his body tensed while he made a fist with his right hand.
It would be so easy to give Y/N to Verstael for experimentation. Ardyn had done it numerous times with many people. It was all part of a little game he and his companion shared to keep their projects cost-effective and without alerting Aldercapts treasury. Ardyn would use his charisma and status to lure people into his inner circle, and when the victim grew trusting toward him in full would he reveal the trap. He picked his targets with careful consideration, especially if there was a high likelihood they’d bear fruit toward Verstael’s experimentations with the starscourge.
Verstael wasn’t going to lay a hand on Y/N, that much Ardyn knew. Though he considered himself a corrupt man too far gone in his own misery, Ardyn prided himself on keeping promises. At least when he truly valued the other person. Y/N was still a precious commodity he needed. He’d keep his word to them, for now at least.
A painful throb began to flex on the underside of Ardyn’s skull. Grunting, he shut his eyes. Flashing images sprang forth into his peripheral while sounds echoed against his eardrums. Laughter, warmth, cities, and faces came and went. People Ardyn didn’t know but felt connected to. Experiences he himself never endured, but his body could remember every touch. Ardyn wished that Y/N’s memories were more coherent. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could undergo these random trespasses to his psyche.
Ardyn turned and lay down on his right side to ride out the experience. His golden eyes traveled down the length of his body, once more lingering on the couch. He watched Y/N’s chest rise and fall underneath the darkness of his long coat. Their breath was faint, and every so often they’d adjust and pull the jacket over themself when it would fall from their flesh. Ardyn glared at them. The contempt in his eyes was noxious. He wanted to snuff them out right then, and not have to worry about their welfare. Alas, a wave of possession forced Ardyn to relinquish the intrusive thought.
“Should’ve just left them behind,” Ardyn muttered bitterly to himself. Things would’ve been easier if he didn’t let his heart out of the cage for the first time in centuries, but he made his bed and needed to lie in it.
Ardyn closed his eyes, allowing remnants of what he assumed sleep felt like to wash over him. Maybe this time around he’d dream. Maybe he’d finally see a familiar face that wouldn’t haunt him. He had to hope. Just this once.
Notes:
This is my first attempt at writing a reader x canon fic, and writing with they/them pronouns. I myself am nonbinary, and I acknowledge that certain story elements are influenced by my experiences being a female bodied person. I hope despite this, that most readers will be able to enjoy themselves in this work.
I don't have a timeline for chapter updates, other than to post when I have the spoons/hit points.
Thank you for reading, and for being supportive 💙
Could I request this prompt? Yeah, I killed him! He used to hit you! What did you expect me to do?! Leave him alone? For Ardyn x Reader
I imagine Ardyn saying something like this when he finds out that the reader used to be in a violent relationship and he “takes care of it,” of course, if you don’t feel comfortable doing this prompt I totally understand, so I’ll also put forward this one too I’m not going anywhere
Hope you’re having a good day ☺️
@blossom-adventures I had fun writing this all out, and I hope you like it! Thanks for checking in on me too. I hope you're well!
Y/N let out a deep breath as they traversed through the grand hall of the imperial palace. They were marching their way toward Ardyn’s chambers since he couldn’t be found in his office. There were so many mixed emotions that brewed within Y/N that they ignored the prying eyes and whispers of fellow Imperial Helpers that were maintaining the palace. Gossip and rumors didn’t hold a torch to the kind of frustration Y/N was feeling at this moment. What mattered now was finding the Chancellor.
A heaviness lingered in Y/N’s gaze as they gripped tightly upon the envelope that was in their possession, and the events of the morning began to play out in their mind.
It all began with a knock on their apartment door. With caution, Y/N opened it up to reveal an Imperial Martial. Within Niflheim, getting a visit from one of these guys meant time in jail would be around the corner. Though Y/N was well aware they hadn’t broken any laws or violated policy when it came to their job, the fear of being taken away over something minuscule instantly had them on edge. It seemed the Martial caught on quickly, and he did his best to soften his hardened features.
“I apologize to be calling on you like this, but are you Y/N Y/L/N?”
Y/N nodded. “Yeah, I am. I don’t recall breaking any laws but if you need my compliance, I’ll--”
“No, no, no,” The Martial calmly raised his hand at them. “This isn’t one of those calls, fortunately. However, I do have some rather terrible news. Is it true you were once in a relationship with a man by the name of ---- ?”
As soon as Y/N heard the name, their mind immediately blocked it out. It was strange. Y/N could see the Martial’s lips moving, but when he said their ex’s name, only a dull static would register in their ears. Even though Y/N had been free of the man for years, their body still kept the score of his trespasses. Nonetheless, they nodded and tried to keep calm and collected.
“When was the last time you spoke with ---, if you don’t mind me asking?”
“Um,” Y/N closed their eyes for a moment and swallowed. “I haven’t said a word to him in years. We didn’t exactly have an amicable breakup. He’s tried calling here and there, but I ignored him. Did something happen?”
“I’m afraid so,” The Imperial Martial said and furrowed his brows. From what Y/N could tell, the man looked disturbed momentarily. “---’s body was found three days ago. He went on a camping trip with some work colleagues and met his fate.”
“Gods be damned,” Y/N muttered. Their eyes slightly widened in shock. “What happened to him?”
“I’m not a liberty to discuss--”
“Please,” Y/N pleaded. “I need to know.”
The Imperial Martial debated with himself while he glanced over Y/N’s eyes. He was in no position to judge a complicated relationship, and feeling sorry for them decided to be honest.
“Well, since the investigation is over, I guess it won’t hurt anything,” The Martial sighed. “Witnesses said ---- ventured away from camp, having heard something. His colleagues then heard him scream and went to find him but whatever attacked him took off quickly. That was two days before he was found. Based on multiple wounds and fractures, we believe ---- was mauled by an animal, most likely a rogue flexitusk. That’s the official statement, although it’s not conclusive.”
“Why is that?” Y/N asked in puzzlement.
“Well,” The Martial took in a deep breath through his nose. “There was almost nothing left of the body when it was recovered.”
Y/N’s mouth hung open. They could feel their blood, even down to the most simple of cell structures in their body, turn cold. Y/N averted their gaze from the martial, giving a nod that they registered what he said.
“Anyhow,” The Martial cleared his throat and glanced down at an envelope he had been carrying. He presented it to Y/N, watching their shaking hands take it with hesitance. “---- had no next of kin, but we did find that he had a deal with his bank to leave his remnants to you in the event he passes. In the envelope is your portion of his life earnings, with the rest going back to the empire as per Niflheim rule. You will also be receiving his incident report for record keeping. I am sorry for your loss, and must be on my way.”
“That’s fine. Thank you.” Y/N muttered. The Imperial Martial gave a curt nod with his head and left.
As the initial shock of the news began to wane, it didn’t take long before Y/N’s mind had a terrible thought, and this terrible thought led them to rush toward the imperial palace on their day off to confront Ardyn.
In the present, Y/N approached the entrance to Ardyn’s chambers. They wasted no time shoving the doors open. This broke many palace protocols, but Y/N didn’t care. Nothing mattered but this terrible burden that was on their mind, that they hoped against hope was wrong.
In his living space, Ardyn was standing by the large windows of his balcony with three members of the imperial council, conversing about shortages due to the war. From time to time, Ardyn sighed while looking over some papers, not before he did a double take seeing Y/N walking right up to him.
“Y/N?” Ardyn furrowed his brows in surprise, ignoring the confused looks on the councilmen, and he quickly approached. “What are you doing here, isn’t it your day off?”
“We need to talk,” Y/N whispered. They swallowed, glancing at the councilmen briefly before focusing back on him. “Alone, preferably if you can do that.”
“Of course,” Ardyn murmured gently. He turned his attention to the councilmen and gestured. “Leave us. We’ll go over the rest of this nonsense at the meeting tomorrow.”
“Thank you for your time, Chancellor Izunia.” One of the councilmen smiled. They each bowed their head toward him to which Ardyn returned the gesture, and with haste departed from the dwelling.
Once the men were gone, Ardyn’s features relaxed as he let out a sigh of relief and laughed. “I never thought I was going to get out of that mess! You saved me from utter boredom just now.”
“Ardyn--”
“You are a sight for sore eyes,” Ardyn teased playfully before concern crossed his features. “And you look absolutely winded. Can I get you something to drink or--”
“Did you have anything to do with the death of my ex?” Y/N interrupted before Ardyn had the chance to finish his sentence. They watched as his expression went from inviting and worried to cold and shocked as if he had been slapped. A foreboding silence fell between the two of them not long after, and the chambers began to feel heavy. It was enough to give Y/N the courage to speak up again.
“Two weeks ago, in these chambers, I confided in you about my past. The good and the bad. You told me I was safe here. That my words were safe here. Now I’m scared that I got somebody killed because of my words.” Y/N tossed the envelope down onto the floor, revealing the papers.
“He hurt you,” Ardyn whispered bitterly as he made a fist while looking at the documents.
“Gods,” Y/N shook their head and took a step back. The stress from the morning finally broke through as they boldly began to raise their voice. “You actually did it!”
“Yeah, I killed him!” Ardyn admitted with great anger. He closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath. A sadness dwelled in the flames of his amber eyes as he forced himself to look upon Y/N. “He used to hit you! What did you expect me to do, leave him alone?!”
“What he did to me was awful, but---Ardyn, that wasn’t your call to make!” Y/N countered. “Is it so easy for you to disregard the life of another, to make it look like an animal ripped him apart?”
“I was protecting you!” Ardyn said in his defense. “Niflheim’s justice system failed to keep you safe when you sought help, and so I took matters into my own hands!”
“As true as that may be,” Y/N shook their head. “Ardyn, I told you I didn’t care about getting justice anymore. As long as he left me alone, I would be alright! Why didn’t you take me at my word?”
“He kept trying to contact you!” Ardyn seethed, catching himself yelling, and dialed back. “Y/N, I work with men like your ex. Once they want to tarnish something, they become relentless in the pursuit! It wasn’t a matter of if but when he’d try to hurt you again! I couldn’t let you take that risk! Now you have peace of mind that he’s gone and you have financial restitution! Isn’t that generous!?”
“Ardyn, I didn’t want this!” Y/N began to tear up. “I told you what happened to me because I felt safe with you. I never told anyone, but you. And now I feel like I played a hand in a murder. My ex was vile but---not even he deserved what had been done to him. I feel so sick. Now I’m scared that if I tell you that someone so much as looked at me weirdly, you’d just discard them like trash.”
“Y/N,” Ardyn sighed, shaking his head.
“I don’t think we should be speaking to one another anymore,” Y/N swallowed. “You’ve made working here bearable, and I like you…a lot, but I’m terrified. I’m really fucking terrified, Ardyn.”
Ardyn shook his head and averted his gaze. Although enraged at being confronted, he sat with what had been thrown his way, knowing he had no right to be upset with Y/N’s reaction. He quietly glared toward the windows of his abode, hearing the sound of Y/N’s footsteps as they ventured for the exit. He knew he should let them go, it would’ve been the right thing to do, but selfishly he shadow-stepped, popping right in front of Y/N causing them to jump back.
“Y/N,” Ardyn breathed, his eyes held a silent plead in them as he met their tired gaze. “I refuse to apologize for what I’ve done. That being said, I can and will atone for you.”
“How?” Y/N sniffled, shaking their head.
“You and Verstael are the only souls in Niflheim that know I am Adagium,” Ardyn said softly. “You could bring me to ruin if you wanted, undo all I have planned if it would bring you peace after what I’ve done. However, I won’t lose you. Do you hear me? I already lost everyone I’d held dear in my life, everyone but you.”
“What are you saying, really?” Y/N knew Ardyn well enough to know that when he overexplained himself, there was usually something much more simple he was trying to convey.
“I---” Ardyn’s brows knitted in a glare, frustrated with himself. “I can’t say, but perhaps I can show it?”
With hesitance, Y/N nodded and observed his features, while also watching Ardyn slowly taking hold of their right hand into his. He had them place their palm upon his chest where his heart lay and took in a deep breath before his eyes became muddled with darkness. Only the honey color of his irises remained as his daemonic features began to manifest.
Y/N locked their eyes with Ardyn, staring with awe and fear. Then they felt it. His pulse picked up, and the powerful thrum of his heartbeat pulsed against their palm.
“There are millions of voices that dwell within this body. It’s quiet in my head when you’re around, to where I can hear myself underneath it all.” Ardyn murmured inhumanly while his daemonic eyes held Y/N in high regard.
He was scary. This situation, this relationship--whatever it was between them, was scary, but there was something in Ardyn’s voice that pulled Y/N away from the fear. Enough to where they drew close and embraced him with shaky arms. He returned the gesture, and Y/N noted how Ardyn was mindful not to be too rough as he hugged them back.
“Are you still in there?” Y/N muttered against him, still crying but for another reason as the pain of his earlier words resonated.
“I am,” Ardyn gently reassured. “And this soul cares a great deal for you. I promise I'll fix what I've broke."
Y/N pulled back from his chest and felt Ardyn’s right hand tilt their chin up. A contemplative look crossed over his features, and he pressed his lips to their forehead. The kiss lingered like a warm welcome and Y/N felt as if somehow Ardyn was taking every ounce of their sadness, their anger, into himself. Ensuring they wouldn’t suffer much like he had done as a healer from 2,000 years ago.
“Stay with me. Please.” Ardyn whispered against their skin.
Y/N couldn’t say no to that and remained in his embrace. Somehow, it would be alright in the end. Y/N had to believe it. They had to believe in him, that Ardyn would do right by them.
"I'm not going anywhere."
If you like my work and feel generous, feel free to donate to my ko-fi account or my cash app account!
Y/N was a simple Scavenger of Lucis, until meeting a deadly blow at the hands of an infected creature. At the crossroads of death, they are found by Niflheim’s cryptic Chancellor with his own agenda. Now bonded to Ardyn Izunia, and tossed into the world of Niflheim, Y/N struggles to cope with their new life as an Imperial Icon all the while battling their feelings toward their fate and that of Ardyn’s.
Click here to read on AO3
While Y/N admired Loqui for his grit, it became obvious throughout the night that it was a handicap.
It all started once Y/N had their fill of dancing and conversation. Loqui was challenged by Accordo soldiers to a drinking game. Of course he bragged about his intelligence regarding Altissa's flora and fauna. And of course, he had been lying.
Several drinks down the hatch, and Loqui's face was redder than the Vixen itself. He humorously attempted to apologize for his inhibition, but his words were so mangled that his manner of speaking was on par with a newborn babe grasping babble. Y/N was prepared to escort Loqui back to the residence, until the same soldiers who created this mess offered a hand. The argument being that it was only fair because they had unintentionally ruined Loqui's date. As a precaution, Tuti also joined the group.
Y/N didn’t know how to feel about that, nor how to deal with Loqui's confession from earlier. It made them more thankful that their plan to return Loqui home wasn’t seen through. Though Loqui didn’t give the impression he’d perform anything nefarious, Y/N didn’t want to take the risk. Not when emotions were high, and certainly not when he was drunker than a skunk.
Not long after Loqui had been tended to, Y/N snuck out of the Ceremony House and ventured into the night. The glow of lanterns and the full moon above led them down a road that eventually sprawled into a dirt path. The salty pungent odor of the beach drifted through their nostrils as the sound of waves crashing along the shore beckoned them close. At the end of the dirt path, Y/N took in the sight. The moon shimmered against the oceans surface, and highlighted the small grains of sand on the beach. It was as if the sun had never set, but instead covered itself in a dark veil. A cool wind drifted through Y/N’s hair, and they smiled.
Bending down to their shoes, Y/N slid out of them. The relief they felt when the sand hit their feet was indescribable. They closed their eyes, letting their toes wiggle through the soft texture. It almost felt like they were back in Galdin Quay. As Y/N opened their eyes, it dawned on them how quick time had passed since they left their apartment. It contrasted with how living in Niflheim felt like an eternity.
Y/N paid no more heed to their thoughts and began to walk toward the tide. The coast was warm, and Y/N felt the temperature welcome them via the humid whisps that the surf pulled in and out. As soon as Y/N’s feet splashed in the water, they heard a snap. They faintly gasped and their head whisked around. At first Y/N couldn’t see anything, and had to squint. Heavy steps soon followed, and then the silhouette of messy hair came into light followed by a pair of golden eyes.
“Ardyn?”
“It would appear you escaped,” Ardyn mused. He stepped out of the shadows, now fully cast under the moon. Much of the wrinkles on his face were hidden, smoothed out by the cool palette of the night. His lips quirked into a smile as he approached Y/N and watched their feet card through the sand.
“Speak for yourself!” Y/N laughed in surprise. “I thought you were going to spoil Betrys for the night?”
“Hmm?” Ardyn blinked, caught off guard for a moment. “Nothing scandalous occurred, I assure you.”
“Then what happened? It’s only been two hours since I last saw you!"
Ardyn shrugged. “She decided to call it off.”
Y/N’s eyes widened before they scoffed. “I'm not buying that, given her persistence.”
“Would I lie to you?”
“On numerous occasions.” Y/N quipped.
Ardyn let out a laugh. He sighed and admired the stars before answering further.
“She called it an act of mercy," He began. "She said and I quote, ‘you have bigger problems than dealing with me tonight’.”
It took Y/N a second to ponder on the meaning behind Betrys's statement. Their pulse began to rise at the implication.
“So Y/N,” The softness of Ardyn's tone carried in the wind. “Do I have a problem to contend with this evening?”
“Not unless you’re looking for one.” Y/N shivered, and quelled their nerves with a small laugh.
Ardyn raised his brows. It was obvious this wasn’t the answer he was seeking, but he chuckled nonetheless. He calmly stepped closer to Y/N, then gestured with his head for them to follow his side as they walked along the beach together.
"Are you feeling better?"
"Pardon?"
"During the wedding when you squeezed my hand, you looked upset. Are you better now?"
“In many ways, I’m relieved.” Ardyn breathed. “I was ambushed from the past.”
Y/N nodded. “I could feel through the scourge that something hit you hard.”
Ardyn regarded Y/N for a moment. He could see the lights of the city from afar, looking like small fireflies in the distance. The image of Aera briefly crossed his path, and he averted his gaze to the sand at his shoes.
“I was thinking of my wedding day. How Aera and I exchanged vows before the six.” He murmured bittersweetly, bending down to pick up a pebble. He tossed it up and down in his right palm. His eyes fixated on the object as a rare and genuine smile fell upon his lips. “It was a beautiful affair, the whole thing. Probably the most joyous day of my life. So simple. So weightless like this stone. The burdens of gods and men couldn't touch us. Nothing could."
As quickly as the smile came, it left. Snuffed out like a candle that had been pinched by fast fingers. The frown on Ardyn's mouth and the sorrow in his eyes had Y/N let out a breath they had been holding. They watched as he tossed the pebble one last time into the air before throwing it out for the ocean to swallow.
“Our union was over in just a few skips. All because of my hesitation. If I hadn't shown up to the damned citadel, and hadn't been easy on Somnus...if I hadn't been merciful in our duel, she would've..." Ardyn sighed. Unable to finish the sorrowful incantation.
Feeling Y/N's touch suddenly upon his shoulder, Ardyn furrowed his brows. He tensed for a second, and then his own right hand reached up to settle upon Y/N's. Both soothed and incensed, mixed feelings pooled in Ardyn's stomach.
“Am I crossing a line?” Y/N murmured.
“No,” Ardyn replied. He could feel the fear that hung in Y/N’s voice, and his fingers gently touched over theirs. “Not in this circumstance.”
Y/N--still unsure of themself and of his answer--slowly retreated their hand away.
Ardyn adjusted so he was fully facing Y/N. He lingered on their gown, admiring the way the moonlight above seemed to make it glow. For the briefest of moments, he was reminded of the crystal. The damned relic of the gods. He hated how this moment was tainted by his disgust, and frowned.
“I’m sorry,” Y/N spoke up. “For kissing you at the springs.”
“Why?”
Y/N blinked. He sounded so calm, it was almost uncharacteristic of him.
“I don’t know..."
“I think you do, otherwise you wouldn’t have said anything.” Ardyn stated. He glanced over their eyes and lips, softly smirking. “We have all night. So speak, and I shall listen.”
Damn it…
He sounded so smug yet understanding, and made Y/N that much more nervous. Y/N's eyes drifted to the sand, then met the waves in the distance before getting the courage to look at Ardyn. To really look at him. So that he'd know there were no other layers that needed peeling back.
“I’ve been feeling so much during these last months,” Y/N started. “And even though you're the one that dragged me into the heap of this mess, you're the only thing keeping me from losing what I have left."
Ardyn’s curiosity was piqued. “What do you mean by that, losing what you have left?”
“My spirit or whatever is keeping me from walking into the ocean so I can drown.” Y/N replied. “I hate this. I hate living with the scourge inside of me. How painful it is, and knowing one day I might kill people again. Yet I hold on. It's all your fault for giving me the courage to keep fighting."
Ardyn let Y/N’s words sink. He was unsure how to truly feel--given what he knew that Y/N didn’t--but he allowed himself to ravish in the little joy that sparked in him.
“And here I thought you loathed the very nature of my being.”
Y/N suppressed a laugh. “Don’t get it wrong, I still think you’re an asshole but…I like you.”
“Yet another feeling you and I have in common.” He huffed in amusement.
“You like me?”
Ardyn nodded. “I have for a while now.”
“In what manner?”
“Finish what you started first.” He teased.
“Oh,” It dawned on Y/N they had gone off on a small tangent. Although they could argue it was Ardyn’s fault, Y/N didn’t bully him for it. They gathered up their wits before speaking.
“I feel something toward you. It’s always been there since we bonded through the scourge. And when you talk about Aera, how much you loved her, I feel so guilty for it. I’ve been inside your head. I know what she meant to you, and I felt that when I kissed you, I spat on her memory--your memories--that you have buried underneath all that,” Y/N gestured at Ardyn’s body, emphasizing nonverbally how he was the embodiment of the scourge itself. “That’s why I’m apologizing. Does any of this make sense?”
“Not in the slightest,” Ardyn replied. He gave Y/N a smile upon catching them furrow their brows, a subtle reassurance he was jesting before he sighed. “This was bound to happen at some point.”
“What do you mean?”
“Well,” Ardyn made a face, trying to find his words. “You and I share an intimacy through the scourge that can't be accounted anywhere else on this star. With the hivemind at play, and the scourge wanting unity, it's only natural that we'd feel...overwhelmed by the other at some point in time. Hence, what transpired in the bedroom. ”
Y/N’s heart dropped. From what it sounded like, everything about their feelings toward Ardyn had been artificial. A byproduct of the scourge attempting to return to its master. The sad thing was, it made sense to Y/N. The timing, the bleed throughs, it was all connected.
“So the scourge is feeding off our emotions just so it can become whole again.”
“More like feeding into them,” Ardyn corrected. “But you seem to understand the gist.”
“Into them?”
Ardyn glared as if he had been confronted by a nemesis from the past. Someone who had left him to bleed out. To Y/N, he looked as if he wanted to both confront and flee from his rival, but had no strength to perform either. It surprised them when he pushed through the silence and spoke.
“This whole week I’ve pondered the enigma between us. Each time I’ve examined the facts, I always reach the same conclusion.” Ardyn paused. Whisps of his wine colored hair drifted across his face. The cool drop in temperature offered him solace if only for a minute. “Even with how putrid my soul has become, there’s still a root buried underneath the tainted soil. It begs to sprout though aware the rays of the sun can’t pierce the veil. Yet somehow, a little light made it’s way through the cracks. And slowly, tiny leaves have grown. Reaching out through the nothing to grasp at a morning sun.”
Ardyn’s voice trailed as he finally stared at Y/N. The glow in his amber eyes increased, adding a ethereal presence to him that kept Y/N grounded while they stared right back. He bit the inside of his bottom lip.
“No one has bewitched me in ages. Not like this."
Y/N felt as if every blood vessel in their body had opened to the fullest extent possible. His words trudged them through the thick of their feelings. Somehow through the explosion, they fell back to Eos and replied with a whisper of uncertainty.
“So what do we do now?"
Ardyn’s eyes drifted over Y/N’s, drinking in what he’d allow himself to behold before capping. He had lost his vigor as the reality of his and Y/N's fate breached the surface.
“I'm contractually bound to the vengeance I seek, just as I am bound to one day relieve you of suffering." His voice had all the confidence in the world, but the root he had spoken of refused to let go. It refused to stop sprouting for his sake. Not when it was being nurtured by hope.
Hope…
It was such a fragile thing, yet it burdened Ardyn. No matter how hard he tried to strangle it, it couldn’t be snuffed away. Not when Y/N’s eyes regarded him. Peering at him with not the wonder of Eos, but as a human who saw through his masks and could see the man that hid in wait to be cut loose.
“I don’t need a partner,” Ardyn confessed bitterly. He was too craven to make such a bold request, but he allowed himself one little morsel of reverie. “But...I do desire a friend.”
A woe curtly wandered into Y/N's heart, and was extinguished by joy at hearing his request. This was enough for now. It had to be.
“I can be that for you.”
Ardyn smiled genuinely as he shook his head. “You already have. I just blinded myself. Not wanting to acknowledge it.”
Y/N smiled so hard it hurt, only to frown curiously when Ardyn cleared his throat.
“I’ve noticed Commander Pierce’s boy has had an eye on you,” Ardyn began. He felt his body tense with apprehension at his own words, but proceeded. “Should you choose to pursue him, I wouldn’t hold any ill regard toward a union.”
Y/N shook their head with a grimace. “That’s…kind of the last thing on my mind right now, but thanks.”
Even though Ardyn tried to hide it, Y/N noticed the small victorious smile that formed upon his lips.
"So...we're friends, right?" Y/N asked to clarify.
"It would appear so." Ardyn mused with a faint smile.
"Is that what you want?"
Ardyn swallowed. "Yes."
Be it the weight of the conversation, or emotions simmering down, Ardyn and Y/N proceeded to once more tread along the beach. Both were reticent while their minds settled on what had been discussed. Y/N felt that a mass had been unburdened, but through the scourge, they still felt there was unfinished business. However, it could wait. There was no sense of urgency to pry anything more out of Ardyn. Not when he looked at peace. Y/N reveled in the sight, knowing from shared memories that he hadn't felt he could let his guard down in centuries.
“I’ve been ruminating on an idea,” Ardyn hummed. “I believe it would benefit us both if I taught you how to heal. To learn the tools of the trade of my maternal line."
With the near smug look Ardyn wore, Y/N was uncertain if he was pulling their leg or not.
“Are you being serious?"
“But of course!” He chortled.
“But why?" Y/N questioned. "With how you talked about the tradition, it sounded like a closed practice."
“I believe my mother broke the mold when she taught me, therefore, it’s not something to fret about.” Ardyn chuckled. He could see Y/N was still apprehensive and proceeded to explain further. “Here is my thought process: I can't feed off you for strength and risk bleed throughs, and now we are sharing wounds through the scourge. Therefore, it would be wise if not one, but both parties were well versed in medicinal magic and it's propriety. Should circumstances go astray in future altercations, we can count on each other for back up."
“I can't argue when you put it like that.” Y/N murmured, finding themself warming up to the idea. “To be honest, having more use than being a prized medal for Niflheim would feel great.”
“I’m relieved we're on the same page,” Ardyn said. “When we cross back into Niflheim, we’ll begin study. I must forewarn that I’ll be more stringent with you than I have been in lessons of etiquette. Medicinal knowledge can be quite dangerous, especially in regards to plants. If you aren’t precise, it’s a sure path to death.”
“Given the circumstances with you being immortal and me having a death wish, I didn’t think that would be an issue.” Y/N couldn’t help but quip, adding light to the conversation. They offered a nervous grin when Ardyn glared initially, before he too found humor in the jest and scoffed while playfully swiping at their shoulder.
“I can’t afford to perish and respawn. Not when so much is lying on the table.” Ardyn admitted before he slyly added. “And for the record, you aren’t useless.”
“That was very tender of you.” Y/N goaded.
“Don’t go getting too attached now. As Chancellor, I can’t afford to have favorites among adoring citizens. No matter how charming they try to be.” Ardyn darkly teased. He took delight in the quibble fear that crossed Y/N’s face as he chuckled.
“You can be a jerk sometimes, you know that?” Y/N sighed.
“I aim to please!”
Y/N bit the inside of their lip, trying not to laugh. The conversation at large felt childlike--idiotic in ways--but it felt right between them, and only them.
As Y/N prepared change the subject, they stopped. Their right hand stretched to the side, blocking Ardyn at his waist. He let out a grunt, raising a concerned brow while Y/N gestured out to the waves.
“Look!”
At first, Ardyn didn’t see anything. From how Y/N sounded, it seemed it should’ve been obvious something was afoot. Nevertheless he couldn’t decipher what was going on. He blamed his damned vision, and regretted not having his glasses handy. He blinked a few times, and then caught it. Astonishment graced his features and his mouth fell open.
Along the surf and into the shoreline, the ocean began to spark with little blue lights. In clusters of hundreds, they swayed through the waters and glowed with the same shine as the stars above. Like Y/N, Ardyn felt captivated by the sight.
“It’s a plankton bloom,” Y/N whispered. Their eyes widened with childlike fascination as the waves became more illuminated by cerulean hues. “I heard about it in Lucis. These little creatures glow to attract mates or ward off predators.”
“Messengers of Leviathan,” Ardyn murmured. He could feel Y/N’s gaze upon him as he smiled nostalgically. “That’s what we called this phenomena in my time. It’s a sign that the goddess of the sea is near, and listening to devotions.”
In a split of a second, Y/N began to disrobe out of their formal attire. Ardyn did a double take, feeling his pulse rise into his throat. Eyes widening, he was both impressed at how quickly Y/N discarded their clothes, and felt embarrassed for suddenly gawking at them.
“Y/N, what are you--” Before he could protest, Ardyn watched in horror as Y/N rushed toward the water. Their earlier words of fighting temptation to toss themselves into the waves and drown echoed in his mind. He felt fear grapple in his chest as he began to sprint after them and shouted.
“Y/N!”
“I always wanted to do this!” Y/N gleefully exclaimed like a kid who had discovered magic again in the world.
The euphoria in their voice had Ardyn stop in his tracks once his boots hit the foam of the shoreline. Startled, he observed Y/N dived into the waves, and watched them rise. The plankton surrounding them disappeared, and then returned in a captivating swirl of blues as Y/N chased down the specks. Ardyn sighed in relief once the adrenaline died down.
He watched the spectacle for a time, finding delight in Y/N’s bliss. There was a moment where Ardyn could've sworn he heard Aera's laugh. Fear traveled through him. Perhaps Leviathan was near--messing with his mind. He felt paralyzed as darkness began to dwell in his heart. As quick as it came, Ardyn felt his anger dwindle when he saw Y/N stop in their tracks.
Standing waist deep in the water, Ardyn watched Y/N extend a hand out in welcome with the biggest of grins anyone could muster.
"Come join me!"
"I don't think so!" Ardyn shouted.
"Why not?" Y/N hollered back with a laugh.
Ardyn made a face. "Remember our conversation about large bodies of water?"
Ardyn stumbled. He growled under his breath. "I'm not frightened!"
"Then what's stopping you?" Y/N countered as a wave knocked them forward.
Ardyn had to admit Y/N had him there. He wasn't sure what it was, but the compulsion to join grew more and more with each passing second. It was maybe a minute before Ardyn made his choice. He began to disrobe out of his layers, tossing his articles of clothing on top of Y/N's. Down to his pants, Ardyn took in a deep breath, and bolted toward Y/N. He ignored how both refreshing and cold the water was as the ocean began to hug his torso the further he went.
Upon meeting Y/N, Ardyn grabbed a hold of Y/N's hand to stabilize himself. A laugh was shared as he jumped from a small wave pushing him to the left.
"See? Not so bad!" Y/N exclaimed. "I owe you one for this!"
"In that case," Ardyn shot Y/N a devious grin. He was absolutely eating up the dread that crossed over Y/N's eyes. "Allow me to take you dancing again!"
“What do you mean by aga--ahh!”
Ardyn snickered as he flung Y/N headfirst into the water. Y/N rose to the surface and attempted to return the favor but with little luck. The two laughed as Ardyn struggled against Y/N's grasp before he fell backwards; taking himself and Y/N down with him. Their bodies tumbled as the current pulled them further into the sea. It took them a moment to register they had gone into deeper territory, and on instinct they held hands and remained close.
Holding their breaths, Ardyn and Y/N glanced through the darkness. The ocean felt like another universe, where gravity and the world of men held no bounds. The ambience of such feelings were further inflamed when the plankton once more made their presence known. Thousands of small bodies lit up like city lights and illuminated both Ardyn and Y/N while they swam together. Both admired witnessing such a natural majesty for a time, until Y/N pulled from Ardyn and caught a handful of the plankton in their hands. A pure glow surrounded their fingertips and highlighted their features.
As Ardyn floated near in awe, he had an epiphany. Had he been the once pious man he was known for, he would've felt the six shining through Y/N. There was something magical about this moment that stunned him. Almost as if Eos had forgiven him of all trespass.
Y/N turned their head and smiled at him. Ardyn returned a soft expression as he saw small bubbles leave their nostrils. He hoped that when he died, if there was an afterlife that awaited, he could take this snapshot with him to the grave. With that thought having left, he swam forward. The two encircled the other as they kicked through the plankton and followed the light back to the beach.
Gasping for air upon rising, Y/N relied on Ardyn as he coaxed both their bodies into shallow waters. Once they were in water that was up to their knees, they stopped to catch their bearings.
In between breaths, Y/N met Ardyn's eyes as he moved his hair out from his face. He smiled at them with a sincerity that had unintentionally caused the dams in Y/N to break. Their throat clutched as they started to sob.
“Y/N?”
“I’m sorry,”
“Y/N…” He began to look them over, checking for any signs of wounds. When Ardyn found nothing, it dawned on him that Y/N was suffering from injuries of the heart. Though concerned, he remained neutral. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing," Y/N shook their head with a sniffle. They smiled at him, trying to tamper down whatever this was. “This is the happiest I’ve been in a long time. That's all.”
Ardyn frowned as the scourge told him everything he needed to know. The emotions were fleeting, but Ardyn honed in. He hadn't felt the fear of mortality in ages, and through Y/N, he could feel how it slowly breathed along their neck; reminding them that this was it, and to cherish what little happiness had come their way. Being immortal, Ardyn himself longed for death, and up to this point, assumed Y/N held no qualms regarding their fate. He couldn't have been more wrong, and in a way it hurt him, but in a matter that felt even foreign to the likes of himself.
With no further words, Ardyn pulled Y/N into his chest and embraced them. His heart stammered as he felt Y/N hold onto him as if the gods would strike them down at any time. Burying his face some into Y/N's dampened hair, he whispered all the comforts one could give. All the things he would've said to Aera had she been in the throes of existential dread.
“Shhh..." Ardyn murmured throughout. He let out a small grunt, feeling Y/N's cheek against his chest. “What may come of us, we’ll be alright. Do you trust me?”
Y/N nodded weakly. They shuddered as Ardyn continued to soothe them, and managed to peer up into his gaze.
“There you are!” He smiled.
Y/N didn't know what was so funny, but they grinned as a laugh came and went. They felt one of Ardyn's hands retreat from their waist as he settled it upon their cheek. His touch was cold, but the warmth he emitted made up for it. As the panic began to dwindle, Y/N let out a breath as they gazed over him.
“Friends don’t hug each other like this.” Y/N murmured
“True, but we're an exception.” Ardyn mused. He felt a tremor run through Y/N’s body, and chuckled darkly. “Do you have regrets now, about your little stunt to swim out here?"
“Maybe a bit,” Y/N admitted with a tired laugh. They could feel their body growing colder by the second. “Maybe we should get out.”
“I think that’s an excellent idea,” Ardyn smiled. He gave the side of Y/N’s face a gentle squeeze with his palm before taking them by the hand and leading them back to the beach.
