Prompt Post
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ffxv_kinkmeme Welcome to Round One of the FFXV Kink Meme!
CLOSED for prompts | OPEN for fills
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The important rules in short:
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Prompt, write, draw, comment, and most importantly have fun!
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UPDATE 12/30/16: I'm looking for some help! Details here. (I'm always looking for more pinners; this is an open invitation.)
I've added/clarified some rules to make life easier to my pinners. Please refrain from changing the subject lines except when filling or updating a fill. It makes it easier for us to keep track of what we've already looked at. Thank you so much!
UPDATE 1/28/17: We've opened up a Drabble Tree post! Go check it out.
UPDATE 2/21/2017: ROUND ONE IS CLOSED FOR PROMPTS. Please feel free to continue posting fills. Round Two will open for prompts and fills on 3/1/2017.
CLOSED for prompts | OPEN for fills
Please have a look at the extended rules here.
The important rules in short:
- Post anonymously.
- Negative comments on other people's prompts (kink-shaming, pairing-bashing etc.) and personal attacks of any kind will not be tolerated.
- One prompt per comment. Warnings for common triggers and squicks are encouraged, but not required.
- Prompts should follow the format: Character/character, prompt.
- Keep prompts to a reasonable length; prompts should not be detailed story outlines.
- Fills should have the word "Fill:" at the start of the subject line.
- Otherwise please avoid changing the subject line.
Please direct any questions or report any problems to the Ask a mod post.
Prompt, write, draw, comment, and most importantly have fun!
(You can also check out our Pinboard for Filled or Unfilled prompts)
UPDATE 12/30/16: I'm looking for some help! Details here. (I'm always looking for more pinners; this is an open invitation.)
I've added/clarified some rules to make life easier to my pinners. Please refrain from changing the subject lines except when filling or updating a fill. It makes it easier for us to keep track of what we've already looked at. Thank you so much!
UPDATE 1/28/17: We've opened up a Drabble Tree post! Go check it out.
UPDATE 2/21/2017: ROUND ONE IS CLOSED FOR PROMPTS. Please feel free to continue posting fills. Round Two will open for prompts and fills on 3/1/2017.
Gladio/Noctis, reunion
Date: 2016-12-15 05:48 pm (UTC)Redux part 1/?
Date: 2016-12-22 08:40 am (UTC)After Noctis was taken into the Crystal, the world had come to an erupt end. For Gladio, the darkness was a constant reminder of his failure as the Shield, the sworn protector of the King, and a friend. If only he had been stronger or faster, Noctis would be there with them fighting the Imperials, ridding the world of Ardyn.
Patience was virtue, or so his father had often repeated the mantra whenever Gladio grew exasperated with his daily training sessions with Noctis. Teaching a bratty prince how to fight had been hell, but on nights like this where the darkness consumed even the stars in the sky, Gladio fondly reflected on the memories. Noctis would be back. He had to. Too many people were holding onto fragile hope their King would return with godly powers to save the world from Ardyn’s plague of darkness.
He drew a deep breath before he exhaled. The fire from his camp would drive weak daemons away, but it attracted the fiercest ones knowing prey awaited them at the end of the dim light. Either way, Gladio itched for a fight. Fighting is what he did best, it made him feel alive, gave him a purpose and reason to continue a hopeless battle against time.
How long had it been? Ten years? Or more? Gladio had stopped counting after the first year, but that hardly stopped him from visiting Hammerhead on a particular night, remembering how it was the mark of the anniversary the Regalia had broken down. The start of their adventure that turned from a harmless road trip between friends to marry off Noctis, to a world cast into ruin.
Too many lost their lives. Too many sacrifices were made. The gods must have abandoned them, Gladio thought bitterly, but he quickly replaced his thinking knowing he had to have unwavering faith in Noctis. He touched the cross of his necklace, fingers tracing the texture of the skulls connecting the chain. A valuable gift from Noctis, if not, an emblem that marked the pact of brotherhood he made for King. The Shield, the left hand of the King. A position of the highest of honors aside from that of Ignis’. Between the two, they were to guide Noctis and fill in where the King faltered.
Gladio shook his head. No, he had no right calling himself the Shield. The title was now sullied if not null when he gave in to his heart’s desires. A flash of soft skin against followed by desperate kisses weighed heavily on his conscious. Boundaries existed for a reason to separate the right from wrong. Noctis belonged to Lunefreya, and Gladio belonged Noctis as the role of the protector. There was a fine line between the two that got muddled along the way.
Therein lied another issue. Duty or his personal feelings. Gladio took a drag of his canteen before closing his eyes. Duty came first above all. The tryst would end as simply as it started. He let out an exasperated sigh then a weak chuckle. “Pathetic.”
Re: Redux part 7/?
Date: 2017-01-11 04:54 am (UTC)“Better not regret it when you wake up.” Gladio braced one of Noctis’ legs over his shoulder to sink further into the King, now he couldn’t hold back his rough thrusts that had Noctis gripping at the sheets desperately for some form of salvation from Gladio’s constant abuse of his prostate.
He kissed along Noctis’ slender neck, down to suck on a nipple that sent Noctis to press his hips desperately back to fuck himself on Gladio’s cock. Magic filled the room, dispersing in all directions as a sign Noctis was too far gone to remember his self-control.
“Close…” Noctis murmured.
Gladio wrapped one hand around Noctis’ own cock to stroke it languidly in time with his thrusts. It was enough to send the King to let out a strangle cry as his muscles clenched tightly around Gladio’s cock. Gladio squeezed Noctis’ hips hard enough to bruise as he rode his orgasm inside Noctis without regarding he should have probably pulled out instead of releasing inside him. It was too late, and neither of them minded at the time that Gladio filled Noctis and pulled him into a tight embrace.
“Gladio.” Noctis’ voice cracked.
“No.” Gladio shook his head as he felt Noctis’ hand tangled in his hair. “Not right now, tell me later. Right now…it’s just us.” He stroked circles against soft thighs in hope to ease the King’s fears, but the closer they came to Insomnia, the heavier the pending secret Noctis hid seemed to be.
“The Lucian crest. Why?” Noctis suddenly asked as he took in the afterglow of being safe in Gladio’s arms.
Gladio shrugged. “Seemed right at the time when I got it.” He had gotten the tattoo after heavily drinking one night. It covered the scar he received from the short break he took from traveling with Noctis and the others.
“Prompto is right.” Noctis chuckled sleepily, eyes already drooping from exhaustion.
“About what?” Gladio raised a brow and carefully shifted Noctis to a more comfortable position, the King’s head resting on his chest and an arm securing his waist.
“You make anything look good.” Noctis said, a bit pleased with himself to have Gladio dedicate a tattoo just for him.
---
Redux part 2/?
Date: 2016-12-22 08:46 am (UTC)Gladio knows the kid means well, but he had no interest in being pitied and taken to hunts where he would be reminded of Noctis. And yet, he showed up in Hammerhead once more where Prompto waited impatiently by the old diner.
“What’s this about?” Gladio demanded, not exactly in the mood to make small talk.
Prompto raised his hands in defense before he frowned. “Don’t shoot the messenger, man.” His expression softened slightly. “Ignis found some interesting intel, but you’re hard to reach. Even Iris said she hasn’t seen you in weeks.”
“Just handling things on my end fine.” Gladio crossed his arms. “What’s so important that you have to play the messenger boy?”
Prompto shifted uncomfortably before he ran a hand through his hair and smiled sadly. “You know I hate lying, so please don’t be mad at me, okay? Ignis heard there’s been sightings. Daemons ending up dead, big baddies just up and gone.”
“Other hunters are out there fighting too.” Gladio said, clearly unimpressed by the news.
Prompto fingered the gun tucked in its holster and dropped his hand lamely by his side. “Yeah, sure, there are, but not ones that can summon weapons out of the blue.”
For a moment, Gladio felt time stop once more, his heart skipping a beat before a familiar ache clung to his chest. “Stop. We’ve been through this and it was bullshit.” He growled.
“Glad-“ Prompto started but he stopped himself. “I get it. I’m sorry. This was a bad idea.”
“No shit.” Gladio shot back without remorse. “That all? I got jobs lining up for me.”
Prompto opened and closed his mouth before settling on a tight smile. “Be safe out there, Big Guy.” He gave Gladio a friendly punch on the arm and paused for a moment. “Don’t be mad at Iggy, okay? He cares too.”
“Like anyone can stay pissed at him.” Gladio grumbled as he grabbed his gear again to head back into the wild.
Prompto laughed, a genuine laugh that pierced through the darkness. “Same old same old, I guess.” He waved at Gladio before retreating into the diner, no doubt to pick up information for Ignis.
Gladio needed a drink. A strong one at that, but coming across alcohol was a rarity. For a moment, he considered following up on Ignis’ lead, but he clenched his hands into fists. No. Not again. The first time had been crushing, and the second devastating. A third time would not happen. Some wounds couldn’t be mended with a drunken night.
Redux part 3/?
Date: 2016-12-22 09:08 am (UTC)Gladio stationed himself on the outskirts of Lastellum on a hunt that threatened the city from losing all its power. The workers of the plant were desperately clinging on an old generator might give the problem a temporary solution while the hunters handled the daemons in the area and fixed the main source at the plant, but Gladio knew it was almost time for Lastellum to fall. Losing Lastellum would be another heavy blow to the resistance.
Gladio placed his hand at the entrance of the power plant. Years ago he had posed as a hunter while accompanying Noctis on a mission to eliminate the daemons plaguing the power plant. They were troublesome pests terrorizing the workers, but to Gladio they were target practice. Of course, Noctis saw right through his disguise, but both found it amusing to work in sync as strangers for a moment.
Noctis. Was he dreaming in the Crystal and remembering his adventures, or was their nothingness?
Gladio grimaced, but went inside the plant once more. Daemons roamed about everywhere without any restrictions. The fight would not be easy, but countless of lives depended on the generators and power source. Gladio fought with every ounce of strength he had until he cleared a way for some technicians to work quickly and power up the tower once more.
It was a short-lived victory. Gladio sensed the others thought the same, but for now, Lastellum and the other smaller towns could breathe a sigh of relief and live another day.
On his way back to his makeshift camp, Gladio noticed a familiar chocobo dashing in his direction with the lantern it carried blinding him briefly. “Gladio!” Prompto called out and jumped off the chocobo without missing a beat. “You have to come back to Hammerhead!”
“Why’s that?” Gladio asked. He expected another lame excuse for Prompto to team up with him for a while or reunite him with Ignis.
On occasion Gladio went out of his way to visit Prompto or Ignis, maybe even join a hunt with them then leave as soon as he appeared. It was nothing personal, but he worked better alone. Ignis let the arrangement carry out without a complaint, but did his express his concern when he thought Gladio pushed himself past his limits. A dead Shield was no use to his King and so on.
Noctis connected the three of them, a leader they would follow to hell and back, and in his absence they became fractured. Broken, reshaped, and strengthened by grief. A silent agreement all three would officially reunite to meet their King again passed between them with the garment of the Kingsglaive the symbol of their vow.
“Noct...” Promto panted and gripped the lapels of Gladio’s coat tightly. “He’s back. For real this time.”
After ten long years of waiting, Gladio felt hope rekindle the fire in him to take up his Shield once more, and he smiled. “Then let’s go pick up the princess. He hates waiting.”
Re: Gladio/Noctis, reunion
Date: 2016-12-23 02:44 pm (UTC)Re: Gladio/Noctis, reunion
Date: 2016-12-23 06:11 pm (UTC)Re: Gladio/Noctis, reunion
Date: 2016-12-26 05:42 pm (UTC)Redux part 4/?
Date: 2016-12-27 08:42 am (UTC)Would Noctis even remember them or feel the same as he had ten years ago over their friendship? Over him?
Granted their sudden relationship warranted much opposition from Ignis and himself included, but both of them took the plunge after the unfortunate death of Lunefreya. The tension between them escalated after the princess’ death and Gladio could hardly resist soft lips and a warm body against his at night.
“Man, I wish I had someone who thought about me the way you think about Noct.” Prompto’s whine broke the silence.
Both of them agreed on resting for a few hours and water the chocobos before continuing their journey to Hammerhead.
Gladio snorted then rolled onto his side. “Ask Cindy out then.”
“No way, she rejected me last time…nicely.” Prompto huffed then sighed. “Are you and Noctis going to be together again? I mean, I don’t mind…” The unspoken but he is the King and you are his protector was left unsaid yet it lingered in the air.
“Don’t know. Maybe.” Gladio admitted as much as it pained him to think Noctis erecting a barrier between them. King and Shield. A disheartening position to be in, but Gladio would accept it with pride to continue his duty to protect Noctis.
Prompto bit his lower lip. “Will you be okay?”
“Cool it with the twenty questions, kid. I just want to sleep.” Gladio groused, suddenly annoyed with Prompto’s prying. Normally he didn’t mind venting to Prompto, but tonight his old fears were resurfacing once more.
“Okay, okay, sorry.” Prompto apologized sincerely.
Gladio hardly slept though that was not uncommon. For ten years he slept only what he deemed necessary to continue fighting. Ignis often scolded him for being stubborn then eventually gave up trying to shake sense into Gladio.
Hammerhead’s neon sign came into view a day later much to their relief after enduring a dangerous journey across daemon infested lands. Ignis already waited for them patiently by the gate and perked at hearing familiar footfalls.
“How is he?” Gladio asked abruptly before Prompto could even form a word.
As much as Ignis schooled his face into a calm composure, the smile slowly etching on his features gave Gladio a sense of relief. Ignis’ smiles were rare and mostly reserved for Noctis. “A bit worse for wear, but nothing a warm shower and food didn’t fix.”
“What was Noct thinking making us worry.” Prompto joked lightly.
Gladio heard the door of the mobile home open and out tumbled a disheveled Noctis. In his mind, Noctis remained as he had ten years ago. Hair styled to stick up on the back of his head and bangs that Ignis threatened to cut for the sake of the prince’s visibility being compromised in battle because of them. No, now, ten years had aged Noctis. For a moment Gladio thought he was seeing the late King Regis, but a shy smile and awkward “Hey,” snapped him back to reality. It truly was Noctis.
“’Hey?’ Really? That’s all you have to say after all this time?” Gladio teased the King and instead of pulling him into a tight embrace, he nudged him playfully. A wave of emotions welled up against his chest from relief to longing of having Noctis for himself. He settled on just responding as a friend would for now.
Ignis smiled at Noctis placing a hand on his shoulder followed by an apology. “Sorry.” Noctis murmured.
“Well, well, this time you truly kept us waiting.” Ignis made a joke which on its own was a rarity, but Noctis found it amusing nonetheless. How many times had Ignis resorted to waking him because his alarm clock never roused the prince from his slumber.
“We’ve got a lot of catching up to do.” Noctis nodded.
“It’s not like you were given much of a choice.” Ignis sighed.
“No, I wasn’t.” Noctis agreed with a weak smile as he moved his gaze in the direction of Gladio.
Prompto interrupted Noctis as he tugged him towards the mobile home. “Dude, you totally owe me for the last round we played. I swear you cheated.” He huffed. Noctis was notorious when it came to King’s Knight. His only other rival who came close was Gladio.
Noctis’ smile didn’t quite reach his eyes, but he nodded and gave a hearty chuckle. “You’re on.”
For the limited space inside, the four of them managed to arrange themselves in a comfortable manner to set a table and set the cards. Gladio always did the honor of shuffling to avoid any suspicion that Prompto cheated in order to beat Noctis for once.
“Shuffle them right.” Ignis reprimanded him without a hint of malice.
Gladio rolled his eyes. “I am. Not like I want Noct to beat us again too.” He saw a smile tug on Noctis’ lips.
“Sore losers.” Noctis replied smugly.
Ten years ago they played King’s Knight whenever possible. They all reminisced on simpler times when the only thing they worried about was about the Regalia’s repairs or if they had enough money to purchase supplies. Traveling Eos had been the best times of their lives. For several hours they forgot about their final mission to reach Insomnia and dethrone Ardyn and enjoyed their time as friends again.
Prompto gave up first. After losing three times in a row, he called it quits and headed to the top bunk to sleep and sulk. Ignis also excused himself if only to allow Gladio and Noctis private time. As much as the advisor could be tactless in situations like this, he had grown intuitive when it came to Noctis needing some time alone.
Gladio cleared his throat and shifted awkwardly in his seat now that he and Noctis were alone. “Could’ve gone easier on Prompto.”
“No way. I won fair and square.” Noctis protested. “Ignis did win at the end.” He pointed out.
As a surprise, Noctis found special cards in one of the shops at a random outpost that had imprints Ignis could read with his hands. Even without his sight, Ignis could play King’s Knight without much hindrance.
“I let him.” Gladio grumbled though he truly had lost to both Noctis and Ignis.
Noctis leaned back in his chair, watching Gladio intently without an intention to stop. “Kingsglaive wear…who thought of that?”
“Ignis.” Gladio had donned the uniform of the king’s old loyal army that once had been disrespected but now were regarded with outmost respect for their sacrifices to the Lucian crown. It was a vow, Ignis had said. A vow between the three of them to prove their dedication and loyalty to their new King.
“It suits you. The ponytail too.” Noctis gave him an approving smile.
Gladio chuckled. “Thanks. Leave it to Ignis to come up with good ideas.”
“He has those.” Noctis agreed then stood up. “Gladio, I…” He moved to run his fingers through Gladio’s hair.
“Noct. You sure?” Gladio asked as he prepared himself for the possibility of rejection. Duty and loyalty to his King came first above personal feelings. Both of them knew this.
Noctis’ laugh sounded hollow. Broken to the point Gladio knew the King was hiding something much more painful than spending ten whole years alone in the Crystal. “Let me have this, please. If you don’t want to, I get it, but I would like to.” His voice remained calm yet the hint of desperation was not hard to miss.
“You’re my King now, Noct. What’s going to happen after you take the throne?” Gladio sighed wanting to say yes off the bat. His whole being wanted nothing more than have Noctis all to himself.
Noctis’ hands stilled from it’s gentle caress against soft tresses. “I don’t care.”
“Guess it can’t be helped, you’re so selfish.” Gladio smiled slightly with the ache in his heart slowly ebbing away.
Noctis tilted Gladio’s chin upward for their eyes to meet. No bullshit. Just honesty is all his King wanted in this moment between them. “Yeah, sorry about that.”
“You’re not.” Gladio sighed, but it was hard to be annoyed when familiar lips were on his.
Gladio couldn’t help his body respond back instantly and he pulled Noctis into his lap. He never imagined Noctis capable of growing a beard of his own what with being hairless all his life, but now it scratched against his own chin. It was pleasant if not welcoming sensation to feel Noctis’ body once more and trace the changes time had caused.
Noctis wrapped his arms around him without hesitation, the timid part of him quelled by Gladio’s hungry kisses. A soft moan escaped him that sent heat straight down Gladio’s groin, but he did have to have some sort of control to gently pull Noctis apart. “I’m liking that you’re eager, but, uh Ignis would be pissed again if we do it here.”
Noctis, of course, in all his stubbornness and spoiled upbringing only gave him an unimpressed look. “Fine, fine.” He kissed Gladio once more for good measure. “No stopping next time.”
“I plan to take you apart next time, princess. Just not here. They’ll stop us before we even get to the good parts.” Gladio stroked Noctis’ thigh out of affection and in hopes of keeping his King satisfied.
Noctis sighed then got off from Gladio’s lap. “Princess.” He grumbled under his breath. “I would have you in shackles for that.”
“Sorry, your Highness.” Gladio gave Noctis’ backside a playful pat. “Rest. We’re heading to Lastellum tomorrow.”
Noctis waved him off with a sleepy yawn. “Tired of sleeping.”
“I know, but we’re all here to wake you up this time.” Gladio promised as he watched Noctis take the bottom bunk and heard Ignis let out an irritated groan.
He had heard everything.
Re: Redux part 4/?
Date: 2016-12-31 07:19 am (UTC)Looking forward to more!
Redux part 5/?
Date: 2017-01-11 04:49 am (UTC)“Noctis!” Iris exclaimed happily as she waved from where she stood outside an old hotel. Years of scolding Iris to use honorifics for Noctis went unheeded no matter how hard Gladio tried to instill the lesson into his younger sister. He was, after all, not one to talk when he seldom referred to Noctis formally.
“Hey.” Noctis greeted Iris and accepted her tight embrace. She cried against his chest from relief and joy.
“Iris, that is your King have some respect.” Gladio sighed but his sister only stuck out her tongue at him. Even now that his sister had grown into a beautiful woman, she was still the same Iris from ten years ago.
“As if you do the same, Gladdy.” Iris countered and did not miss the flush creeping on her brother’s face.
Gladio waved his sister off. “You’re missing the point.” He grumbled though one look from Noctis indicated the King found the sibling banter amusing if not lighthearted.
“And you, came here and didn’t visit me first.” Iris jabbed her finger against her brother’s chest accusingly.
Noctis raised a brow in Gladio’s direction. “No time to even visit your own sister, huh.”
“It was for a hunt.” Gladio protested. “I was going to stop by eventually. Prompto showed up before I could make it to the hotel.”
A half truth. Visiting Iris lifted his spirits, but she knew about his relationship with Noctis and often brought the prince up. What were his plans after saving Eos? Would he continue his tryst with the King or remind him he had duties that went beyond them? Gladio knew Iris meant well with her questions if not to make him think carefully before choosing, but it reminded him often how Noctis was always within his reach though never quite with him.
“Liar.” Iris sighed and shook her head. “But I forgive you. Only because Noctis is here.”
Gladio squeezed his sister’s shoulder gently then chuckled. “I’ll visit more often from now on. After the mission is over. Maybe I’ll even convince Noctis to tag along if he isn’t too busy with Kingly duties.” He joked.
“Yeah, we’ll all visit.” Noctis murmured softly, his voice betraying the smile on his face. “We will need to rebuild Lucis. Iris, we’ll need your help too.”
Iris let out a surprised, “Oh.” She quickly brushed a few tears from her eyes and nodded with a bright smile. “Of course. Anything to help.”
“Didn’t you say you’re a part of the group.” Gladio chuckled and nudged his sister. “You’ve always been one of us.”
Iris laughed. “Someone had to make sure none of you got killed.”
Their afternoon was pleasant with a rare surprise of a bottle of scotch Iris found hidden away many years ago by Jared. The old innkeeper gave his life to protect Iris and his grandson Talbot and now they all sat together toasting to his memory. Prompto proposed a game of darts shortly after just to win against Noctis for once in a game the King lost miserably in.
“Prompto plays dirty.” Noctis grumbled under his breath seeing Prompto’s darts accurately aligned on the bullseye.
Gladio clapped the King’s back and chuckled. “He’s just a sore loser.”
“Ignis is the only one who doesn’t care.” Noctis sighed as he set his darts on the coffee table. Tonight they would have rooms of their own after traveling through rough terrains and risking being killed by wandering daemons. With the darkness almost swallowing all the light in Lastellum even now Gladio’s fingers would twitch on occasion towards his sword.
“I think he is used to losing to you.” Gladio headed up the stairs towards one of the empty rooms. “He spoiled you too much.”
Noctis would probably be annoyed knowing Ignis allowed him to win in most games, but the King only smiled and sighed. “I always knew.”
Gladio stopped outside one of the rooms and saw Noctis also pause, almost as if expecting the conversation to turn into a different direction. An invitation or a simple goodnight to end the day.
“We need to talk.” Noctis suddenly said. “Not now, but soon. All of us.” His hand reached for Gladio’s cheek for a gentle caress.
Redux part 6/?
Date: 2017-01-11 04:52 am (UTC)Noctis always tried hid his emotions though Ignis and Gladio knew him well enough to know the prince wore his true feelings on his sleeve. Avoidance was the prince’s worst quality growing up.
Stemming from the avoidance, the prince would be irritated for days and his training with Gladio sparked his fighting to grow increasingly aggressive if not clumsy when Noctis was bothered by something. Sometimes Noctis was angry with his father, at Ignis’ tactless advice, Gladio beating him every time in their daily spars, or simply feeling the overwhelming pressure of being a prince with no option to back out and be a normal kid crashed hard. Then there was his engagement with Lunafreya. Fortunately the pair cared for one another to accept the betrothal, but whether Noctis truly loved the fair princess or simply cared for her as a friend or a mother figure he never had, Gladio knew best than to ask.
Noctis never spoke about his feelings first. Ignis or Gladio had to draw him out from his shell and force him to talk and even then the prince struggled to be honest. Admitting something was wrong made it real. Gladio wanted Noctis to speak freely, but hearing his King for once want to express his deepest fears and thoughts sent a chill down his spine.
“Later.” Gladio managed to say with a wry smile.
Noctis had to push himself up on his toes to press his lips against Gladio’s. It was a silent plead for help.
He was the shield and it was his duty to help Noctis whenever he could. Where he failed in providing Noctis with common necessities and other royal duties, Ignis filled those in, and where he failed to be a friend where the King wasn’t reminded of his bloodline, Prompto was there to make Noctis feel like he was just a normal kid.
“Hey.” Gladio placed a hand on Noctis’ chest to push him away. “Calm down. Even Iris knows something is up.”
Noctis let out a hollow laugh. “That noticeable, huh?”
“Only if you know where to look.” Gladio assured Noctis then pulled him closer once more. “We’re here for you, through hell and high water.” Tendrils of magic started to envelope Gladio’s body and surrounded him in warmth with a tinge of raw power that radiated from Noctis.
The power of the gods raged into such a fragile body that fueled Noctis’ strength and magic. Not even Gladio’s intense years of training could match such a destructive force. While Noctis held a power no mortal should possess, the gods blessed him. Gladio felt the magic against his skin, embedding itself as if to grasp a hold of his being.
“Noct, you’re a lot stronger now.” Gladio chuckled as he cupped the King’s chin to pull him into a hard kiss.
Noctis managed to separate his lips from Gladio’s long enough to let out an annoyed huff. “I did say I’d beat you one day.”
“Fair enough.” Gladio chuckled.
They both initiated a series of kisses until Gladio’s hand blindly reached for the doorknob to have Noctis pressed against an actual bed rather than the wall of the hallway where anyone could interrupt them. Of course not that Prompto or Ignis would, they both probably had pillows over their heads to ignore the lewd sounds that would spill from Noctis’ lips.
Noctis tugged quickly at Gladio’s shirt, breaking the kiss momentarily just to pull it over his protector and tossing it carelessly to the side. “You’re impatient.” A rarity for Noctis who preferred foreplay to be drawn out.
“It’s been years.” Noctis breathed, his eyes half lidded with lust. His fingers traced the tattoos on Gladio’s arms before stopping at the scar on his chest now covered by a new tattoo Noctis had not seen before. “That’s new.” He noted.
Gladio slipped a hand into Noctis’ pants to wrap a hand around his cock. “Focus.” He said instead of answering the lingering question.
“I am…” Noctis trailed off as he gasped from Gladio’s hand stroking him.
Noctis felt nothing like a woman. Women were soft with curves Gladio took pleasure in mapping with his hands, but Noctis was hard and soft in some places. Rigorous training made the King lean with toned muscles, and there were a few faint scars from the consequences of reckless battles. The beard was the newest addition that only aroused Gladio further to feel Noctis had grown as he had over ten years.
“You’re staring.” Noctis pulled at Gladio’s ponytail to bring his face closer to his until their foreheads were pressed against each other. “Don’t stop.”
“Hard not to.” Gladio replied unashamed to move his hand further down Noctis’ cock to trace a rim of muscle that clenched out of reflex from just a tentative brush against sensitive skin.
Noctis cursed under his breath and urged Gladio to continue his ministrations with one leg wrapping around his waist.
Intuition had led Gladio to barter for lube once arriving in Lastellum. Noctis was hard to sate when the King had more stamina than his small frame garnered. The inkling feeling one thing would lead to another proved to be right as Gladio reached for his pack to draw out the small tin case and dipped his fingers that weren’t occupied in teasing Noctis.
“Relax.” Gladio murmured against Noctis’ ear, hardly restraining his own willpower not to rush and just plough right into Noctis without preparing him.
Before Noctis it had been a string of nameless women on nights his sexual frustration couldn’t be tamed with just his hand. Ten long years and Gladio never considered sleeping with others and now Noctis was under him again. Everything felt right once more.
“You try it.” Noctis shot back in annoyance, but he laid back and pulled his trousers down further to spread his legs.
“Rather not.” Gladio pressed one slicked finger into Noctis’ entrance, trying not to hurt the King in the process but both were nearing the end of their patience.
The muscles tightened instinctively around Gladio’s finger as he pressed further in to stretch Noctis, have him relax. A low moan escaped from the King’s lips and it sent a pool of heat down Gladio’s groin. More than being inside Noctis, he got off from the sounds of ecstasy and every series of expressions Noctis’ face contorted into from pleasure.
Gladio worked quickly yet diligently and only paused when Noctis suddenly cried out and clenched tightly around his fingers. He had found the spot that always drew the King to beg for more.
“Hurry.” Noctis grumbled between pants.
“Going, going.” Gladio chuckled, though he could hardly blame Noctis when his own cock was still restrained in his jeans.
He slipped his fingers out of Noctis slowly and took the rest of his clothes off as well as Noctis’. “Ready?” He asked though he already knew the answer.
“Yeah.” Noctis shuddered slightly in anticipation.
Gladio made sure to slick himself up before pressing himself against Noctis’ entrance, a hand caressing his inner thigh in reassurance. There was no way to describe the sensations of being surrounded by warmth that made him groan. “Noct.”
“Move.” Noctis breathed, his face flushed and hair already in disarray.
Gladio gladly obeyed Noctis’ request as he slowly thrust into the King. Each drag and push ignited a fire in him to claim Noctis, to remember each expression of pleasure was reserved only for him, no one else. “Gods, Noct, you’re still so…” He trailed off and groaned again at feeling Noctis’ nails sinking into the skin of his back. As much as he hated to admit it, Gladio did like a bit of pain mixed in to his pleasure.
“Tight?” Noctis offered not so innocently as he wrapped his legs around Gladio’s waist to draw him further into him.
“Yeah.” Gladio chuckled and thrust harder into Noctis, making the bedframe knock against the wall. “They’re gonna hear it all.”
“I don’t care.” Noctis tried to stifle a lewd moan as his protector’s cock brushed up against his prostate, but failed as his body craved for the sensation.
“I got you.” Gladio promised and began to thrust into Noctis without abandon. He felt amazing. Beyond amazing.
Redux part 7/?
Date: 2017-01-11 04:56 am (UTC)“Better not regret it when you wake up.” Gladio braced one of Noctis’ legs over his shoulder to sink further into the King, now he couldn’t hold back his rough thrusts that had Noctis gripping at the sheets desperately for some form of salvation from Gladio’s constant abuse of his prostate.
He kissed along Noctis’ slender neck, down to suck on a nipple that sent Noctis to press his hips desperately back to fuck himself on Gladio’s cock. Magic filled the room, dispersing in all directions as a sign Noctis was too far gone to remember his self-control.
“Close…” Noctis murmured.
Gladio wrapped one hand around Noctis’ own cock to stroke it languidly in time with his thrusts. It was enough to send the King to let out a strangle cry as his muscles clenched tightly around Gladio’s cock. Gladio squeezed Noctis’ hips hard enough to bruise as he rode his orgasm inside Noctis without regarding he should have probably pulled out instead of releasing inside him. It was too late, and neither of them minded at the time that Gladio filled Noctis and pulled him into a tight embrace.
“Gladio.” Noctis’ voice cracked.
“No.” Gladio shook his head as he felt Noctis’ hand tangled in his hair. “Not right now, tell me later. Right now…it’s just us.” He stroked circles against soft thighs in hope to ease the King’s fears, but the closer they came to Insomnia, the heavier the pending secret Noctis hid seemed to be.
“The Lucian crest. Why?” Noctis suddenly asked as he took in the afterglow of being safe in Gladio’s arms.
Gladio shrugged. “Seemed right at the time when I got it.” He had gotten the tattoo after heavily drinking one night. It covered the scar he received from the short break he took from traveling with Noctis and the others.
“Prompto is right.” Noctis chuckled sleepily, eyes already drooping from exhaustion.
“About what?” Gladio raised a brow and carefully shifted Noctis to a more comfortable position, the King’s head resting on his chest and an arm securing his waist.
“You make anything look good.” Noctis said, a bit pleased with himself to have Gladio dedicate a tattoo just for him.
---
(A/N: accidentally fudged up the posting order)
Redux part 8/?
Date: 2017-01-11 04:58 am (UTC)The remedy of course, seemed to be fishing. Or at least Noctis proposed they go fishing after leaving Lastellum and given Iris’ blessings for a safe journey to Insomnia.
No one had the heart to tell him, no fish remained in the ocean. Meat of any kind became scarce after the daemons threatened the wildlife of Eos. Yet, Noctis pressed on they stop at the closest watering hole they could find.
The visit to Lastellum and Iris brought up their spirits and now all four were riding the high of hope and faith the people had in them and the ones they had in each other.
Noctis summoned his fishing rod and took his time picking the lure and line from his old fishing box Ignis kept for safekeeping. Gladio had no patience for fishing. He liked hobbies that involved movement or eating. The three of them knew better than to rush Noctis and subjected to the King’s whims.
The tension visible on Noctis’ stiff shoulders slowly relaxed and he smiled to himself, a moment of peace not even the gods could take from him. Gladio couldn’t decide if this Noctis was his favorite or the one who pissed him off with his stubbornness.
No fish took the bait, yet Noctis showed no signs of disappointment. Only contempt of such a simple pleasure of casting his line once in a while and checking the lure again splayed on his rugged features.
“Shall we call it a day?” Ignis asked with a small smile of regret. When will Noctis be able to fish again? None of them wanted the answer to the question, but someone had to be the one to drag Noctis back to reality.
“Guess so. The fish aren’t biting.” Noctis willed his fishing rod to disappear.
“Good try though.” Gladio ruffled Noctis’ hair playfully. It used to annoy Noctis to no end when Gladio messed up his perfectly styled hair, now it just earned him a shy smile and nudge. Their fingers brushed briefly against one another to elicit a comforting touch that had them both smiling slightly.
--
Redux part 9/?
Date: 2017-01-11 05:03 am (UTC)For several nights they traveled under the guise of their new armor and weapons that served well against daemons and other creatures who attacked them. Noctis had his front that consisted of laughter and smiles for all his friends. Not even a high leveled daemon dampen his mood, if anything it spurred Noctis to fight harder. Under normal circumstances, Gladio would be beaming with pride that Noctis had become such a skilled warrior, but fighting along side him confirmed his suspicions Noctis was pretending for all of them he was okay.
Insomnia laid a day’s ride away when Noctis requested they rest and plan their point of entry carefully. Gladio heard horror stories from other hunters foolish enough to undertake missions located within Insomnia’s borders. Daemons ruled Crown City and none of them were weak or had been killed. A certain death awaited them in Insomnia and it the anxiety clung to all of them.
Ignis prepared the best meal possible with their rations for their last rest stop outside Insomnia. Gladio set up the camp as he usually did with Prompto’s help. The old Coleman chairs continued to prove useful even after all those of being stored away in Gladio’s secret safehouse.
Laughter followed as they exchanged stories from their past. Everything revolved around Noctis. Their lives were his. Gladio couldn’t think of a single time his life didn’t involve knowing he would be a royal protector for the Lucian royalty.
“Um, can we talk?” Noctis said as he focused his gaze on his cup of coffee.
Gladio wished Ignis would come up with a reasonable excuse to prevent Noctis from saying anything further, but nothing of the sort happened. Instead, Ignis motioned Noctis to continue. “Please, you have our attention.” Ignis said.
“I just…” Noctis trailed off, his expression twisted in remorse and hesitation to finish.
Gladio’s own impatience and the fear that gripped him made him snap. “Out with it already. No use beating around the bush.”
Noctis cast his head down to avoid the eyes now piercing through him and clenched his hands tightly into fists. “Dammit…this is harder than I thought…” He gave a shaky laugh. “I’ve made peace with it. Seeing you guys all here…it’s more than I can take.” He admitted.
“What do you mean?” Ignis asked calmly.
“Striking the Starscourge comes at a price. When the True King rises to kill the corrupted immortal soul, he has to give his life as well.” Noctis allowed for his tears to stream freely down his face. It was not often Noctis cried in front of them or was honest on how he truly felt. “I…my life for the world’s.”
A sound of a chair falling breaks the silence. “No, you can’t.” Prompto cried as he shook his head in disbelief. “You’re…our King. What’re we supposed to do without you?” He demanded.
“I…” Noctis smiled sadly then sighed. “You three have my complete trust. I have faith you can help Eos be what it once was. Restore Crown City again. It’ll be tough, yeah, but it’s doable.”
“We’re not royalty.” Ignis reminded Noctis kindly, yet the hint of disappointment and grief was present in his voice.
“No.” Noctis agreed then stood. “But only you three can do it. It’s selfish, but please make sure our people know peace.”
Gladio couldn’t process it all. Through countless fights Gladio was not a stranger to pain, but this was a punch to the gut that rendered him breathless and unable to think. In the back of his mind he had always known the truth, but denial was far more kinder than the constant reminder he was escorting his King to his death. “Okay.” He said. “We’ll do it.” There were no other words he could say, the rest were for just Noctis to hear later.
“Come, Prompto, there is much we need to discuss and plan for tomorrow.” Ignis gave Prompto’s arm a soothing squeeze.
Prompto rubbed his eyes and sniffed, not at all satisfied of how the conversation was ending or how he would have no time to grieve for his King. He entered one of the tents without another word.
“Let’s take a walk.” Noctis said to Gladio who mechanically followed though his mind and heart were a whirlwind of emotions.
They were far enough to be out of Ignis and Prompto’s earshot, but close enough to camp they could return quickly should a daemon catch them off guard. Each step added a stone against his chest making it hard to breathe and walk boldly by his king.
“Gladio, I’m sorry.” Noctis murmured quietly, his eyes downcast at his boots.
“What for?” Gladio chuckled hollowly. “I can’t protect you from fate.” What power did he have against the gods? Not even a chosen king could escape his inevitable death.
Noctis’ breath grew ragged, struggling to keep a front of Gladio. “I…have no regrets except one…”
Stop. Gladio wanted Noctis to stop speaking if it meant never to hear the words that followed.
“You. I wanted more time with you.” Noctis smiled wryly. “My whole life’s been duty and giving up everything. I get that, I’m okay with that, but you’re the only one who makes me want to forget it all.”
Gladio took Noctis’ hand in his own and pulled him into a tight embrace. Noctis warm and in his arms, fragile yet strong in resolution to trade his life for millions. In a perfect world, they would find a way to make their relationship possible after Noctis’ coronation. No such world existed, reality was much crueler and claimed many since the start of Regis’ reign.
“Noct.” His chest rumbled with a cry he wanted to suppress and accept this was their final night together as friends, as king and shield, and lovers. “Wish they’d take me instead. You got a lot of people depending on you.”
“You have Iris.” Noctis said. “I promised her big brother would come back safely. Don’t do that to her, Gladio.”
Iris. No, he made a vow once his father died that no matter what, he would always be in Iris’ life. She was his family, but Noctis became a part of it as had Prompto and Ignis.
“I failed you.” Gladio felt tears prickle at his eyes and he shed them as he caressed Noctis’ cheek. “It’s not supposed to be this way.”
Redux part 10/?
Date: 2017-01-11 05:05 am (UTC)Gladio hardly bothered to stop and reason that pressing Noctis against a tree warranted a high risk of being caught unaware. Tonight, fuck logic, he thought. If it was his last night with the man he loved, by the gods he would leave his mark and gladly bare everything Noctis would throw at him.
It was messy.
Gladio worked Noctis, preparing him as quickly as possible while the king entangled his fingers in his ponytail, tugging here and there to indicate his patience was drawing thin. Being inside Noctis made time stop, it was just them rutting filthy out in the open without caring if their groans and moans drew unwanted attention.
“Gladio…” Noctis gripped at his shield’s coat and threw his head back in pleasure. “I…” The words died in his mouth after a hard thrust sent his magic to burst all around them.
Every cell in his body felt the sudden rush of power and strength coming from Noctis’ essence. A trade between them, a bond so to speak that would be unbreakable as long as the power of the Crystal lived within Noctis.
He doesn’t want it. The gods had no right to take Noctis away, to use him and cast him aside in all to fulfill a prophecy. He’s heard stories of Nyx Ulric, the Glaive who accepted the temporary gift from King Regis and the fate the man met all to keep Lunafreya alive and Prince Noctis out of danger. Noctis is offering, pushing, and forcing it into him. Be the shield for the people.
“Noctis..no..” Gladio is holding onto Noctis’ thighs tightly as he continues to thrust hard into tight heat.
“Yes, for me…” Noctis panted, eyes glazed over by lust and satisfaction he craved from being taken so roughly, yet the intimacy remained from subtle touches of Gladio’s lips against neck that made his skin feel hot.
For you, Gladio agreed. Noctis cried out his name as he squirmed in his arms and came apart. Magic tied them together, the tendrils wrapping themselves around Gladio’s arms and legs in a warm embrace as he too let his orgasm be drawn out by Noctis still pressing his hips back against him. He spilled hard and deep into the king with a low growl.
“I love you…” Noctis murmured. “I love you Gladio. I didn’t want to die without saying that first.”
The ground falls beneath Gladio leaving him with a lump in his throat and a pang of pain ebbed deep in his heart. “You actually beat me to it this time.” He watched as a Noctis’ lips formed a genuine smile that left him breathless as if he was seeing the sun rise in Eos again after ten years of perpetual darkness.
Gladio took the hand baring the Lucian ring and left a kiss in its wake in hopes that some miracle would bring him Noctis back safely. “I love you too, Noct. Let’s give ‘em hell tomorrow.”
--
Redux part 11/?
Date: 2017-01-11 05:10 am (UTC)Where grand Lucian architecture consisted of gothic buildings and statues of old Lucian kings were kept in pristine condition in honor of the old Kings who made their city possible, it was now replaced with broken streets infested with daemons. Many buildings were beyond saving. All that remained were stone ruins and bitter memories of Insomnia’s fall Gladio did not witness, but heard enough from the news ten years ago to know those who had not managed to escape, had turned into daemons themselves or found death.
“We’re home.” Noctis said as he took in the sight of his city.
Gladio never dared to venture this far out in the last ten years. Too many daemons and Ardyn pulled the strings of whoever dared enter his domain. By now the false kind surely knew of their arrival. All of his careful calculations led to this and the hairs of Gladio’s neck prickled from anxiety of what awaited them beyond the gates.
“How does it look?” Ignis asked as they walked briskly and avoided hitting the major streets where growls and shrieks of daemons echoed.
Prompto tapped Ignis’ hand. “Dark. You’d hate it because no one has cleaned in years.”
“I should make that priority after this.” Ignis agreed and smiled out of gratitude for the detailed description that followed.
Gladio walked beside Noctis and pulled him aside quickly when a daemon spotted them. They ducked into an alley that was designed far too much like a labyrinth. After a few grueling minutes of Gladio trying to find the end of the alley, Prompto broke the ice once more taking photographs when the opportunity presented itself.
They found safe rooms to rest under the subway to eat or catch their breath and tend to wounds. Gladio prepared himself well for the fight of his life. None of the daemons here were weaklings or compared to those wandering in the wastelands. These were ones who could end them in a single hit if they were careless.
He would rest only at Ignis’ insistence and Noctis urging him to sleep at his side. Sleep didn’t come, not when Gladio maintained his constant vigilance and to watch his king sleeping peacefully in his arms.
Their first hard fight was the Behemoth King guarding the gates to the entrance of the castle. Gladio allowed the borrowed power to burst out of him and attacked with all his might. Ignis’ plans were working well and they ended it with Noctis summoning his Armiger arms to end the behemoth. Even after spending ten years asleep in the Crystal, Noctis’ fighting had improved.
Gladio loved fire. Nothing beat the crackle of fire when he camped or the warmth in provided on cold nights, but the heat licking at his skin the moment they entered the courtyard outside the castle, threatened to scorch him.
“Ignis!” Prompto yelled as he grabbed Ignis and pulled him to safety behind a fallen marble pillar.
Ifrit was a force to be reckoned with. Even Noctis seemed slightly intimidated to be up against a mighty foe that no doubt Ardyn was watching somewhere in amusement. Gladio struggled to even stay on his two feet with every hard knock of fire directed at him or the others. Even so, he used what Noctis gave him to his advantage.
The fight drags on and even he’s reaching his limit until Noctis received help from astrals to banish Ifrit. Seeing Noctis summoning Shiva was both breathtaking and frightening as the area immediately froze over without regard of the rest of them and Noctis plunged his sword into Ifrit with Shiva’s aid. In moments, Gladio could move freely once more and he shivered from the cold still clinging to his body.
“Warn us next time.” Gladio panted.
“Sorry.” Noctis apologized as they entered the castle.
Everything was as Gladio remembered. Nothing was out of place except it was empty and silent. The castle once bustled with life with many servants and other political officials coming and going. Of course, there was Noctis too who filled the castle with life. No King Regis greeted them in the waiting room reserved only for him and his son to discuss private personal matters with the exceptions from time to time being Ignis or Gladio.
“I hated this room.” Noctis suddenly said as he glanced up at the paintings decorating the ceiling. “My dad always looked sad.”
Gladio grimaced at the recollection of King Regis speaking with his father in hushed whispers and his father coming home solemn if not frustrated he could do no more for his king. Then a tragic realization hit him. Regis had known. Regis had known all along that one day Noctis would return to this very room years later with them. An end not even he as a father could prevent.
“Noct…” Prompto said sympathetically.
“He loved you.” Ignis added. “Nothing can change that.”
“Thanks guys…you’re the best.” Noctis smiled and exchanged a fist bump with Prompto. “So this is it.”
Gladio pinched the bridge of his nose then sighed. “Yeah. We’d better get moving.”
“Wait.” Prompto interrupted and pulled out a photo album from his pack. “Noct…I know it’s not much, but please look through these and you can pick whatever you want.”
Noctis nodded as he flipped through the album, laughing at some point no doubt after finding a few embarrassing photos. Then his expression changed to a crinkle of his eyes and tears rolling down his cheeks. “I’m going to miss you guys.” He pulled two photographs from the album and smiled. “Thanks, Prompt. It means a lot.”
Ignis cleared his throat. “I do believe Gladio deserves the last say before we go up.”
“I don’t know what to say.” Gladio admitted. There was too much left unspoken but no time to spend lamenting on lost opportunities.
Prompto crossed his arms and raised a brow. “Wow. That’s so unromantic, Big Guy. By now any girl would be swooning but you’re terrible at it with Noct.”
“Shut up.” Gladio snorted. “Noctis is different.” He slowly placed his hand over his heart and bowed slightly to his king. “It has been an honor being your shield, King Noctis.”
Ignis also placed a hand over his heart and bowed and Prompto followed as the three of them expressed their gratitude and honor of serving Noctis, of watching him grow from a prince to the king standing before them.
“Please, my friends, you don’t have to be so formal.” Noctis said lightly though he was smiling. “The kingdom will need your guidance. I have placed all my faith in you as my father did with me.”
Redux part 12/13
Date: 2017-01-11 05:14 am (UTC)The throne room laid in ruins. Only the throne laid untouched by Ardyn’s destruction as the rest was damaged by a fight that occurred long ago.
“There you are.” Ardyn’s voice rung out. “And not a moment too soon. I’ve been waiting, Your Majesty.”
Gladio summoned his sword out of rage though he knew this fight was not his. All any of them could do was bite back their anger and watch.
“Oh.” Ardyn laughs in amusement. “Well…killing the princess surely spurred a few events, but I made a mistake. I should have struck the shield instead.”
Noctis summoned his own sword and frowned. “Get off my throne, jester.”
“Ah yes, first you have to claim it. For now though...” Ardyn snapped his fingers as he summoned daemons into the throne room. “Your friends will be entertained while we settle the score.”
Noctis hesitated, pausing to consider whether to include his friends in a fight against an immortal being twisted by his own jealousy and vengeance. Ardyn, however, chose for him and snapped his fingers to unleash a violet light aimed directly at Gladio, Ignis, and Prompto.
Gladio felt a sharp pain in his neck and heard his name called out before his vision went dark and his consciousness slipped.
How many minutes or hours had passed since he lost consciousness.
Gladio groaned as every blow he had taken and pushed his body past its limit caused dull aches to prevent him from sitting up quickly. The last thing he recalled was the throne room and now he was outside the castle entrance with Ignis already awake and pacing back and forth. Prompto sat, sullen, and quiet by one of the pillars with his gun drawn out possibly out of caution that Ardyn may send a deadly foe after them.
“You are awake.” Ignis sighed in relief. “None of us seem harmed. I doubt he intended to kills us from the start.”
Gladio cared little if Ardyn truly had his own twisted way of finding salvation, not when he had hurt Noctis out of a plot of revenge that had led to all this. “We’d better stay put then.”
“I was thinking the same.” Ignis nodded in agreement.
No daemons roamed by though the heavy silence did little to aid their worries. Eventually they heard footsteps coming from behind them. Noctis stood covered in grime and looking worse for wear yet stood with his head held high.
“You did it.” Gladio managed a smile.
“Yeah.” Noctis’ eyes focused solely on Gladio then he turned his attention to the sky. “So this is it.”
Prompto’s lips quivered as he struggled to keep his composure, but Gladio reached to hold his arm in comfort though he wasn’t sure it did much when he too could hardly suppress his own desires to stop Noctis from entering the throne room again.
“It’s up to you guys now. Walk tall, my friends.” Noctis smiled, the unwavering trust he had in them was an honor Gladio would carry with pride for his king.
“Take care.” Ignis said with the tone he often used when Noctis found himself in need of reassurance he was walking the right path.
Gladio heard rustling behind them as daemons slowly ascended from the ground. Ardyn maybe be dead, but his corruption had to be purged by Noctis to end the darkness and reign of daemons. He summoned his greatsword and watched the group prepare themselves for battle. Their job was to fight until Noctis completed his ritual within the throne to beckon the kings for help.
Gladio through all his might into the final battle. The daemons were insanely strong with no intentions of letting their prey escape alive. Between him and Prompto, they fought at the frontlines while Ignis planned their forms of attack and engaged when the moment presented itself to him. They worked as a team to combat the daemons until their bloodcurdling screeches filled the air and they turned into ash.
Hours must have passed between the fighting and running and Gladio was starting to feel the wave of exhaustion crashing onto him. Prompto sunk to his knees and panted. “Holy shit…we did it.” He said in disbelief.
“No, Noctis did.” Ignis corrected him. “He saved us.”
Gladio stood on shaky legs that threatened to give out from under him, but he had to see. He had to go to Noctis.
“Gladio.” Prompto called out to stop him.
“Prompto, he needs to do this. We all do.” Ignis protested as he helped Prompto back to his feet and found his way to the stone steps.
The world stood still as Gladio climbed the stone steps. Ten years ago he climbed the very same steps every day to train Noctis. Each time he held his head up high and bowed to King Regis when called upon. Now the stairs seemed to stretch on forever, each step leading him closer to a fallen king.
Gladio pushed the doors to the throne open, his footfalls echoing in the room as he started to see light creep in.
“Noctis.” He whispered as he took in the scene he had seen in his nightmares countless of times.
Noctis sat slumped forward on the throne, his hair covering his face though the sword piercing his body left no room for doubt that he was gone. The prince that loved fishing, who acted cool to hide his shyness, and cared for animals more than he cared to admit would no longer smile or drive Gladio up the wall with his stubbornness to defy every advice he gave him during training.
“Iggy, I don’t want to look.” Prompto confessed and kept his gaze trained on the doors instead of the throne.
“It’s alright, you do not have to describe it to me. I prefer you don’t.” Ignis made an effort to offer some form of comfort to Gladio by touching his shoulder, but the other man shrugged him off before he made his way up to the throne.
“Rest now, my King.” Gladio murmured as he ran his fingers through Noctis’ hair and leaned down to hold his lifeless body in his arms. He pulled the sword out with care not to mutilate the body further and he planted a kiss on the top of Noctis’ head.
Slowly, the magic inside of his body started flowing out and wrapping around him and Noctis to encase them both until all that remained were glass particles disintegrating gradually in the air. “Thanks.” He said, voice barely a whisper as the last gift Noctis granted him disappeared leaving him cold and empty.
“We’ll take it from here.” Gladio promised.
---
Redux part 13/13
Date: 2017-01-11 05:56 am (UTC)“What took you so long?” Noctis asked as he sat up in his throne.
The entire hall was beautifully decorated with flowers adorning the marble rails. A scarlet banner baring the Lucian crest with the name Noctis Lucis Caelum CXIV sown into the fabric decorated the front of the throne. Petals descended from the ceiling, flowing in the air to fall on the steps leading up to the King’s chair.
Noctis sat in the chair, gallant and handsome in his formal and traditional uniform worn by all the Lucian Kings before him. He smiled as he greeted the newcomer.
Gladio chuckled. “You left us a lot of work to do.”
“Ready to sleep?” Noctis beckoned Gladio to join him at the throne.
Gladio kneeled beside his King and cupped his chin while tucking back a lock of hair. “How can I sleep when I’m finally here with you.” He breathed and his lips ghosted over Noctis’ as the King closed the gap to share a tender kiss.
“I missed you as well.” Noctis smiled softly, his hand resting on top of Gladio’s. “May we be together here and in our rebirth.”
Gladio chuckled and pressed another kiss then finally resting his head on the arm of Noctis’ chair. “Wherever you go, I’ll follow. Can’t get rid of me that easily.”
“Sounds like a challenge.” Noctis grinned and placed a hand on top of Gladio’s head to gently caress his hair with the tips of his fingers. “I’m winning this time.”
“Yeah, right, you’ve got a long way to go, Your Majesty.” Gladio closed his eyes, body feeling light and relaxed with Noctis at his side.
“We’ll see.” Noctis said softly and leaned closer to Gladio, seeking the familiar warmth of his skin. On his other side laid to photographs on the arm of the chair.
In one, it was all four of them with the Regalia posing together knowing it would be the first photograph to mark the start of their long journey. The second was of him and Gladio.
A shot taken in secret of them sitting by the dock together at Galdin Quay, both more interested in each other than the scenery or fish. The photographs were what kept Noctis occupied while he waited for all his friends to join him one by one.
For hundreds of years King Noctis Lucis Caelum slept in peace with his royal protector, Gladio Amicitia on a throne both ruled in a life that existed in another realm reserved for those who sacrificed much all in the name to uphold and protect the Crystal. The gods were merciful enough to grant them at least one final wish.
--
One day, Noctis woke up once more, in a future of peace. Another chance. A brand new life without any recollection of the past, yet the soul of the late King Noctis laid inside this new body. It yearned for adventure and most of all, to ease the part of him that seemed to be missing.
/Wherever you go, I’ll follow./ The words echoed in the back of his mind even as a child. Someone was waiting for him. He would find them, and never stop looking until he felt whole again.
Re: Redux part 13/13
Date: 2017-01-13 09:39 pm (UTC)Re: Redux part 13/13
Date: 2017-01-15 08:34 am (UTC)Re: Redux part 13/13 - Gladio/Noctis, reunion
Date: 2017-07-26 08:25 pm (UTC)Re: Redux part 13/13 - Gladio/Noctis, reunion
Date: 2017-07-27 04:45 am (UTC)