Noctis sinks down a little at the top of the mountain, hopping after Prompto once he's sure the Regalia hasn't seen him. He hopes it's Cor, and not his father. Actually, he's sure it's Cor - his father wouldn't leave.
"With you all the way, buddy," Noctis calls after Prompto before he jogs after him, expression determined.
And Astrals help them, they almost make it. Rather, they make it to the parking lot where Hammerhead is - but the Regalia, and another Crownsguard vehicle, are already parked there.
Prompto skids to a halt, struggling to catch his breath, feeling his hopes and dreams of Operation Vacay just sink. They were so close. The poor kid looks absolutely crestfallen.
Looks like it's over... Unless... Prompto pulls out his phone to study the map. "Maybe we could make a run for it... Maybe we could slip by unnoticed. I mean they're expecting us here at Hammerhead. They're not expecting us not here."
It's a long shot, but Prompto isn't quite ready to give up the dream of a vacation with Noct outside the city walls, away from all royal responsibility. Deep down he knows it's already over though.
Noctis glances up, looking at the Crownsguard that are already there - Cor's definitely there, and that might be Crowe with him, and he's pretty sure he can hear Ignis - and then back to Prompto.
"We should definitely try to make a run for it," he whispers to him. He's not ready to give up the fun little chance at freedom too, even if this is doomed to end in failure. But the depression in Prompto's tone makes him want to try, even if just for five more minutes of it.
Well, that and the fact this is probably the biggest thing he's ever tried to do since the attack in Tenebrae. He takes Prompto's hand in his own after glancing at the map - there looks like a path leading out behind Hammerhead - and starts trying to sneak them that way.
They are definitely going to die. This is how their life ends. Tortured to death by Cor. Ignis is most certainly there and Prom can just picture the look of displeasure and disappointment on his face - the thought of that is almost as bad as the thought of torture.
He swears he hears Gladio too. Oh man, he does not want to see how pissed the big guy is going to be. Prompto knows they should cut their losses, give themselves up and face the music. But he desperately wants to make Operation Vacay work for Noct. He just wants Noctis to get the chance to be a carefree kid for a little while. Is that really too much to ask the Astrals for? Just a few teeny tiny days free in a whole lifetime of responsibility.
Prompto holds tight onto Noct's hand as he follows him. Desperately trying not to make any sound that would alert the others to their presence.
these voreteeth get me every time i try to run to the haven
He knows his father and the others have tried their best to let Noctis live normally - sent him to public school, delayed his involvement in politics. But there's certain things they couldn't change, like the Wall's limits, and Prompto is... Noctis adores Prompto for many reasons. One of them is that he knows Prompto isn't his friend because he's the prince, not trying to use him for some political gain. He's friends because he likes Noctis.
And Noctis appreciates that more than he can bear, most days. It's what makes him willing to keep trying, not to give up, as they move behind the garage, then the store. There's more of a gap between the diner and the store, but that's where the path starts moving away, so he tries to carefully lead them both while keeping cover.
He freezes, though, when he hears a growling sound when they're about a few hundred feet away from Hammerhead.
"Oh shit," he mutters as he looks up and spots a pack of Voreteeth starting to clamber closer.
Scratch that. They aren't going to die being tortured to death by Cor or forced to run laps until their legs snap by Gladio. They're going to be mauled to death by a pack of Voreteeth right here near Hammerhead.
Maybe if Prompto was armed, if he had any kind of combat training then the two of them could take the whole pack on and carry on on their way. But expecting Noctis to face the whole pack alone is too risky. Operation Vacay was supposed to be fun. Getting Noct killed isn't part of the plan.
"Dude... It's over. Let's run back. If they chase us then Cor and the others will intercept them..."
For a moment it looks like Noctis is not about to take that sane advice. His jaw sets, and his shoulders square, and he even goes as far as to summon his favored sword to his side.
... But the reality of the situation is, he doesn't want Prompto to get hurt. His style of battle has never accounted for an unarmed combatant, which is something he'll have to work on. So after a moment he sighs heavily, shoulders slumping.
"Yeah. You're right. I'm sorry, Prom."
Carefully, he backs them both away, hoping the Voreteeth don't notice them before they turn and head back towards Hammerhead.
Noctis doesn't help any situation by, once he's spotted by Cor, Ignis and Gladio, simply going "Hey" with his hand raised and Prompto tucked behind him.
aw lvl 1. Back when everyone was happy. Before the pain.
They may not've made it to the chocobos, but they did make it to Hammerhead without assistance. It might not be the epic adventure they had planned but it was something. Even if Prom is mentally kicking himself for not being able to fight. If he could fight, if he could wield a weapon then maybe they could've made it further. He could've had Noct's back instead of hiding behind it.
If looks could kill then the look on Ignis' face would strike them both down dead where they stood. Prompto half-wishes the voreteeth had eaten him, or at least a giant hole would appear in the ground to swallow him up. At least he has the sense to look somewhat guilty.
The rage rolls off of Gladio like thunder. "Cut the crap, Princess. What the hell do you think you were playing at?! Did you even think at all?! What kind of selfish, spoiled brat do you think you are?! Dragging Prompto into your mess. Putting his life at risk."
Ignis raises a hand. "Gladio. Enough."
Prompto hates that Noct is getting the full force of Gladio's rage. Even though Noct promised to take the fall if they were caught. He can't just stand there and let Gladio yell at him like that. It isn't fair. He steps to Noct's side, feeling every bit as weak and pathetic as a newborn kitten as he tries to find his voice. "It... It wasn't Noct's fault. Itwasmyideait'sallmyfault."
Noctis has his best surly look already in place, prepared to deal with the consequences when Prompto speaks up, his words running together. Noctis immediately turns and slaps his hand over his friend's mouth.
"Yeah, it was a joke that I actually did the planning for and convinced Prompto to come along with."
Gladio looks like he's winding up to unleash another round of yelling when Cor cuts in.
"As much as watching everyone decide whose fault this is may matter later, what matters now is getting the prince and a crown citizen back within the wall before we find trouble," he says smoothly.
Ignis appears to agree, as much as his expression is similarly thunderous.
"Noctis and Prompto can ride with the Marshal and Glaive Altius. Gladio and I can take the other car," he says, glancing over at Gladio when he appears to start to protest and cutting it off again.
Noctis huffs out a breath. He appreciates Cor and Ignis, but he can't show it well right now. "Fine," he agrees after a moment, heading for the Regalia and tugging Prompto along with him.
Prompto doesn't need telling twice to get into a car. Especially when that car doesn't have a very pissed off Gladio and Ignis in it. Although he's pretty certain Cor is more pissed than he's letting on and disappointing the Marshal kinda sucks since Prompto has some serious hero-worship going on when it comes to Cor.
He doesn't particularly enjoy disappointing Ignis or Gladio either - after Noctis they're the closest thing to friends he has.
Normally a ride in the Regalia would be a real treat and a privilege complete with plenty of photos - this time... not so much. He slides into the backseat, sinking down to make himself even smaller than usual. Funny, Prompto has been invisible most his life, yet right now he almost wishes he was still invisible.
If Prompto is sinking down to make himself smaller, Noctis is folding his arms to make himself look even more stubborn than before. Crowe shoots them both a look and gives Noctis a little shrug; he ignores her for the moment.
He doesn't speak for a long moment, and in fact it's Cor who speaks first.
"You're going to be in quite a bit of trouble for this, your highness," He says after a moment, already pulling them out of the parking lot at Hammerhead.
Noctis frowns before he answers. "I know. I was aware of the risks when I chose to go through with this."
"Does that include the inevitable lockdown you both are going to find yourselves under? Even if Prompto is claiming it's his idea, we both know you wouldn't have made it outside the wall without your expertise."
"It wasn't his idea, for the record, and yeah; I'm aware that dad might put me in magical time out for a while."
That was something that Noctis hadn't mentioned to Prompto - that his father could seal away his powers, even temporarily.
The scenery goes by a lot faster this way than it did on the way here. It makes Prom's chest hurt slightly knowing this might be the only time they get to see the world outside of the wall.
He snaps his head around to look at Noct. "Wait... your dad can do that? He can just flip a switch on your powers and no more magic?!" Prompto had wanted Noct to be able to experience life as a regular guy for awhile but actually losing his powers? That's not what he had wanted at all.
Leaning forward he rests his hands on the seat in front. "Marshal! Please. You have to tell the King is was all my fault! Don't let him punish Noct! I'm fully prepared to accept my punishment. Life in prison? Exile? Whatevs. Just don't let him punish Noct."
His eyes shine with unshed tears as he sits back, folding his arms across himself protectively. "I just... I just wanted Noct to have a few days of fun and freedom. I know his Majesty works so hard to keep the wall up, to keep us all safe. You think I don't see what it's doing to him? Ageing him before his time? And I know one day Noct will have to take over and I just wanted him to have some fun before all that..."
It hurts in a strange way for Prompto to, what seems like so easily for him, verbalize all the fears that Noctis holds close in his chest. That his father is slowly dying because of the wall, that eventually it will be Noctis' responsibility to hold up that same wall, potentially to the same fate.
"Prompto, stop," Noctis cuts in after a moment, his tone harsher than he intends it to be. He raises his own hand, rubbing the heel of a palm against his eyes, fighting back the sudden surge of emotions Prompto's words had fought up.
"It's just temporary - like if he punished a Glaive that was misbehaving. And there's no way that my father is going to buy that you somehow convinced me and got me out on your own."
He takes a short huff of breath before he looks at his friend.
"It's worth it, okay? It was worth it to just spend some time and feel like I was just normal for once. Just... let me deal with the consequences instead of taking the fall. That's gonna be my job eventually, right?"
Cor, for his part, is silent for the moment - sensing that this is probably more important to sort out, and quietly relieved that Ignis had sent them to this car instead of theirs.
It's definitely not easy for Prompto to say the words out loud. It might seem like he wears his heart on his sleeve all of the time, but he is a whole mess of hangups. There are so many worries and fears that he has that he keeps locked away behind a huge goofy grin.
He doesn't care that Noct is a prince except for when he does care. He doesn't care in the sense that most people think - he's not interested in using Noctis for fame or money or any of that. But the thought that one day in the not too distant future that Noct will have to step up to the plate and become King? That terrifies him. Noctis is his best friend. Hell, Noctis is his whole world. The thought of watching him age and deteriorate in order to hold up the wall, to watch the stress etch his face and weigh down his shoulders. It's almost too much to bear.
It's probably for the best that Prompto has zero idea about the prophecy because he would probably try to take on the Six single-handedly and unarmed to tell them to fuck off and leave Noct alone.
He stubbornly shakes his head. "I'm not letting you take the fall alone, Noct. You're not King yet. I can help carry the load. We're besties, right? Besties stick together."
Noctis is shaking his head a little, a familiar, firm set to his mouth and shoulders, when Cor finally cuts in again.
"Undoubtedly, blame is going to fall on both of you, but perhaps standing together to take it would be in your best interest." Cor glances to the rearview mirror, and both of the young men sitting stubborn in the back.
"If you will recall, the King was once a young man too. I am sure he would understand both of your desires for each other," what a choice of words, "And would be more inclined towards leniency if both of you were willing to shoulder the burden of responsibility for your actions together."
"... I guess," Noctis admits after a moment, his expression still sullen but a little more relaxed. "He's not going to ban Prompto from being able to see me, right?"
"We all know who the real troublemaker is out of the two of you, and I can say it's not Prompto," Cor says easily, making Noctis splutter a bit.
What a choice of words, indeed. Prom is totally not blushing, it's most certainly the Leide heat and the emotions of the day bubbling to the surface.
He slinks back in his seat again, toying with the straps of his backpack, still worked up but feeling a little better knowing (or rather, hoping) Cor isn't driving them straight to a torture dungeon. Although facing the King is probably as terrifying as torture. He honestly doesn't know why Regis terrifies him so much either - other than the fact he is the King. Regis has never been anything but nice to Prompto.
Prom can't hold back the slight chuckle at Noct's splutter. It's ironic really, that when he and Noct first started hanging out together at the start of high school, during all the background checks and the first few times they hung out outside of school that there were all kinds of worries that he was some kind of delinquent or rebel who would lead Noctis astray. Truth is, he's probably the purest cinnamon roll to ever walk Eos.
Still, there is a niggling worry that the King (or Ignis) will decide it best that Noctis and Prompto don't see each other for a while. "It's okay, bud. Even though you're a terrible influence on me, I got your back all the way!"
he's around if you ever want a side storyline with training prompto! also went ahead and timeskipped
Meanwhile, everyone worries that Noctis will be unduly influenced; when he comes by his mischievous nature honestly, if Cor and Clarus' stories of their youthful travels is to be believed.
"Oh, come on," Noctis complains, but his lips are twitching a little bit more in a smile as he looks over at Prompto. Cor himself doesn't smile, but he seems to have an air of smugness about him for having helped the young men stop arguing over who will take the fall.
Of course, there's always a chance that they might be kept from seeing each other - but he's fairly sure it'll be Noctis being prevented from it, and not the other way around. It just depends on how badly Noctis has scared the King, he supposes.
They are indeed taken directly to a meeting with the King, and it probably terrifies Prompto to bits - but in Noctis' estimation, they end up not as bad as he expected.
Sure, he does end up without use of his powers for a short while, and they're not to meet up with each other without an escort - Ignis, Gladio, or one of the Crownsguard - for a month or so, but they're not forbidden from seeing each other and the escort, he's sure, is more for his own sake than Prompto's, considering they don't have Ignis following Prompto around everywhere he goes now.
Noctis is also forbidden to leave the Citadel for a full month as well, which is a bummer for Operation Drunknis, but he supposes he'll have to be patient.
Operation Vacay might not have ended the way they wanted, but at least it didn't end in one of them being murdered by wild beasts or permanently banned from seeing each other. And that fleeting moment of freedom? Prom is going to hold onto that feeling forever.
Noct not being able to leave the Citadel is a bummer not only for Operation Drunknis, but also because a new game just came out at the arcade - and also, every time Prom visits the Citadel to visit Noct he feels like he's going to puke or be arrested. Or both.
Prompto has clearance for most areas of the Citadel, so he makes his way to the training area to wait for Noctis to finish his training session with Gladio. He slides a can of Ebony over to Ignis, offering him a smile and a greeting, before cracking open a soda for himself, placing two cans of energy drink aside for Noct and Gladiolus when they're done.
He pulls out his camera so he can snap some super awesome action shots while he waits.
listen, late arrival uncle cor is great, or smutty if you're into that
Gladio's been taking the chance to work on Noctis' basics since he's without his normal powers. And while Gladio's still pissed at him for what he's done, when Noctis had told him he wanted to work on being able to protect others while fighting, he seemed to understand where that was coming from.
Yeah, Gladio and Ignis were still pissed - with good reason - for him putting Prompto in danger, and a bit at Prompto that he'd gone along with it, but Noctis was pretty sure everything would be okay... eventually.
If Gladio didn't keep knocking him around with the shield, that was.
"You were supposed to dodge that, princess," Gladio's voice comes from above him, offering a hand, and Noctis groans and pulls himself up.
"It's not my fault you're fast and hit like a truck," Noctis grumbles. When he spots Prompto, he gives him a little wave; once Gladio does as well, he smiles, though he doesn't laugh.
"All right, take five for now." Noctis nods and heads over to Prompto, giving him a smile.
Prompto shoots Noctis a grin. He tries his best to ignore the icy tension that still lingers around Ignis and Gladio. Maybe if he pretends hard enough that it's not there it will eventually go away.
"Heyaz. Looking good out there, Noct. Well, apart from all the times Gladio knocked you on your ass. Actually, there were quite a few of those times." He's still Team Noctis all the way though.
"I grabbed you an energy drink. Figured the Big Guy was probably working you hard. I thought maybe once you're done we could go to the Gardens - I got a new macro lens and I totes want to try it out... if it's okay with Iggy, of course..." Prom offers a hopeful look at Ignis. He's pretty sure there are a million and one things Ignis would rather be doing than babysitting their dumb asses.
Ignis takes a sip of his Ebony. "I have some files to read over. The garden is as good a place as any, I suppose."
That smile brightens. Prom is a walking beam on sunshine. "Thanks Iggy! You're the best!!"
Noctis is pretty sure Gladio and Ignis would do anything if Prompto offered them that hopeful look. As for Noctis' own puppy dog eyes, they'd developed an immunity to them far earlier in life and it was all but useless now.
Noctis murmurs his thanks to Prompto for the energy drink, popping the tab open and taking his own sip, watching Gladio grab some water. His brows are slightly furrowed in thought, but he looks back over to Prompto.
"Hanging out in the gardens sounds like a good time," he says, glancing up to Ignis and then back to Prompto. "We've just got a few more drills to go through," more like Gladio chasing Noctis down in the mats, "And then I'll be good to go, I think?"
"You will," Gladio agrees from where he's been none-too-subtly listening. "Cor's got his own stuff to deal with today."
"No rush, bud. I'm good." Normally sitting and waiting with Ignis for Noct to finish up would be a good time. He enjoys spending time with Ignis. But now, with the whole fallout of Operation Vacay he's not quite as enthused, but he doesn't let it show - instead throwing Noct a thumbs up.
"Should've worn my sweats, I could've run laps while I wait. It's cool though. I'll just entertain myself until you're done. Go kick the Big Guy's butt, Noct! You can do it! I have faith in you. I'll be your personal cheerleader. Woo! Go Team Noct."
Prompto shoots Gladio a grin. "You got this, Gladio. Go whip his ass. Go Team Gladio!" Maybe he has a future in polotics and diplomacy yet.
"Betrayer," Noctis mutters into his drink - a carefully chosen word, because Prompto gets enough niff traitor muttered at him from Lucian loyalists to begin with. The word is fond, though, and he reaches up to mess with Prompto's hair before he stands, again, stretching his shoulders and looking at Gladio.
"All right, lets get this over with."
Gladio just shoots him a grin just a tad too vicious to be called fully friendly and starts up their training again once Noctis joins him on the mat.
Ignis, meanwhile, is silent for a moment before he speaks, tone quiet enough to not be heard by Noctis. "Have you given the Crownsguard's offer to train you any more consideration, Prompto?"
It was an offer that had been directed through Ignis himself; all the better to obfuscate that in fact it was an invitation to train with the Marshal, directly from the man himself. Best not to intimidate the young man out of the idea, Ignis reasoned.
Even with Noct's carefully chosen word, Prom can't help but toy with the leather band covering his wrist and the barcode beneath - a constant reminder that he doesn't belong. He has no idea what it means - other than he's from Niflheim. He had always been told to keep it covered though, like a dirty little secret. And he did. It used to be hidden behind a sweatband until Noct gifted him the leather wristband which happened to be the perfect size to cover it.
He doesn't even consider himself a Niff. He can't even remember a time before his adoption - he was only a baby, after all. As far as he's concerned he's Lucian through and through. It does add more fuel to the haters though - a commoner and a Niff as the Prince's best friend? Ouch.
Prompto watches Noct and Gladio go at it, a soft smile curling at the corner of his lips. The offer had caught him off-guard and he had panicked, most likely flailed and spluttered something about needing time. Honestly, it was a no-brainer, right? Operation Vacay would've gone a lot smoother if Prom just knew how to fight.
"Yeah. I mean, I dunno how good I'll be - I'm definitely no Gladio - but I'd like to be able to have Noct's back, y'know? Who knows what's gonna happen with the war and I just... I wanna be able to keep Noct safe. I would literally die for him, Ig."
Noctis is at least doing his best to try and dodge Gladio's hits - or in one case, literally run up and over him instead, which is at least clever. Ignis hums a small sound of approval as he watches and then glances down to Prompto.
In truth they are still more angry with Noctis for taking Prompto along, for playing with an idea he knew to be dangerous. But, Ignis had reasoned to the Marshal, if Prompto could be counted to hold his own, then that was at least one less worry on both of their shoulders.
"That you wish to protect him is something worthy of praise, Prompto." He wants to tell the young man he doesn't have to die, for Noctis, but he's also well aware that seems to be the footnote of Noctis' life; that any and all be willing to give their life for him.
"I will consult with the Crownsguard who offered and see if they have something in mind. Do you have any preferences to what you might train in?" If there's something he has interest in, he may as well alert Cor to it. While the man primarily uses a katana, he also knows the Marshal is trained in many types of weaponry.
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"With you all the way, buddy," Noctis calls after Prompto before he jogs after him, expression determined.
And Astrals help them, they almost make it. Rather, they make it to the parking lot where Hammerhead is - but the Regalia, and another Crownsguard vehicle, are already parked there.
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Looks like it's over... Unless... Prompto pulls out his phone to study the map. "Maybe we could make a run for it... Maybe we could slip by unnoticed. I mean they're expecting us here at Hammerhead. They're not expecting us not here."
It's a long shot, but Prompto isn't quite ready to give up the dream of a vacation with Noct outside the city walls, away from all royal responsibility. Deep down he knows it's already over though.
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"We should definitely try to make a run for it," he whispers to him. He's not ready to give up the fun little chance at freedom too, even if this is doomed to end in failure. But the depression in Prompto's tone makes him want to try, even if just for five more minutes of it.
Well, that and the fact this is probably the biggest thing he's ever tried to do since the attack in Tenebrae. He takes Prompto's hand in his own after glancing at the map - there looks like a path leading out behind Hammerhead - and starts trying to sneak them that way.
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He swears he hears Gladio too. Oh man, he does not want to see how pissed the big guy is going to be. Prompto knows they should cut their losses, give themselves up and face the music. But he desperately wants to make Operation Vacay work for Noct. He just wants Noctis to get the chance to be a carefree kid for a little while. Is that really too much to ask the Astrals for? Just a few teeny tiny days free in a whole lifetime of responsibility.
Prompto holds tight onto Noct's hand as he follows him. Desperately trying not to make any sound that would alert the others to their presence.
these voreteeth get me every time i try to run to the haven
And Noctis appreciates that more than he can bear, most days. It's what makes him willing to keep trying, not to give up, as they move behind the garage, then the store. There's more of a gap between the diner and the store, but that's where the path starts moving away, so he tries to carefully lead them both while keeping cover.
He freezes, though, when he hears a growling sound when they're about a few hundred feet away from Hammerhead.
"Oh shit," he mutters as he looks up and spots a pack of Voreteeth starting to clamber closer.
same!
Maybe if Prompto was armed, if he had any kind of combat training then the two of them could take the whole pack on and carry on on their way. But expecting Noctis to face the whole pack alone is too risky. Operation Vacay was supposed to be fun. Getting Noct killed isn't part of the plan.
"Dude... It's over. Let's run back. If they chase us then Cor and the others will intercept them..."
not a problem at level 60 but level 1....
... But the reality of the situation is, he doesn't want Prompto to get hurt. His style of battle has never accounted for an unarmed combatant, which is something he'll have to work on. So after a moment he sighs heavily, shoulders slumping.
"Yeah. You're right. I'm sorry, Prom."
Carefully, he backs them both away, hoping the Voreteeth don't notice them before they turn and head back towards Hammerhead.
Noctis doesn't help any situation by, once he's spotted by Cor, Ignis and Gladio, simply going "Hey" with his hand raised and Prompto tucked behind him.
aw lvl 1. Back when everyone was happy. Before the pain.
If looks could kill then the look on Ignis' face would strike them both down dead where they stood. Prompto half-wishes the voreteeth had eaten him, or at least a giant hole would appear in the ground to swallow him up. At least he has the sense to look somewhat guilty.
The rage rolls off of Gladio like thunder. "Cut the crap, Princess. What the hell do you think you were playing at?! Did you even think at all?! What kind of selfish, spoiled brat do you think you are?! Dragging Prompto into your mess. Putting his life at risk."
Ignis raises a hand. "Gladio. Enough."
Prompto hates that Noct is getting the full force of Gladio's rage. Even though Noct promised to take the fall if they were caught. He can't just stand there and let Gladio yell at him like that. It isn't fair. He steps to Noct's side, feeling every bit as weak and pathetic as a newborn kitten as he tries to find his voice. "It... It wasn't Noct's fault. Itwasmyideait'sallmyfault."
the paaaaain.
"Yeah, it was a joke that I actually did the planning for and convinced Prompto to come along with."
Gladio looks like he's winding up to unleash another round of yelling when Cor cuts in.
"As much as watching everyone decide whose fault this is may matter later, what matters now is getting the prince and a crown citizen back within the wall before we find trouble," he says smoothly.
Ignis appears to agree, as much as his expression is similarly thunderous.
"Noctis and Prompto can ride with the Marshal and Glaive Altius. Gladio and I can take the other car," he says, glancing over at Gladio when he appears to start to protest and cutting it off again.
Noctis huffs out a breath. He appreciates Cor and Ignis, but he can't show it well right now. "Fine," he agrees after a moment, heading for the Regalia and tugging Prompto along with him.
all the pain and then some
He doesn't particularly enjoy disappointing Ignis or Gladio either - after Noctis they're the closest thing to friends he has.
Normally a ride in the Regalia would be a real treat and a privilege complete with plenty of photos - this time... not so much. He slides into the backseat, sinking down to make himself even smaller than usual. Funny, Prompto has been invisible most his life, yet right now he almost wishes he was still invisible.
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He doesn't speak for a long moment, and in fact it's Cor who speaks first.
"You're going to be in quite a bit of trouble for this, your highness," He says after a moment, already pulling them out of the parking lot at Hammerhead.
Noctis frowns before he answers. "I know. I was aware of the risks when I chose to go through with this."
"Does that include the inevitable lockdown you both are going to find yourselves under? Even if Prompto is claiming it's his idea, we both know you wouldn't have made it outside the wall without your expertise."
"It wasn't his idea, for the record, and yeah; I'm aware that dad might put me in magical time out for a while."
That was something that Noctis hadn't mentioned to Prompto - that his father could seal away his powers, even temporarily.
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He snaps his head around to look at Noct. "Wait... your dad can do that? He can just flip a switch on your powers and no more magic?!" Prompto had wanted Noct to be able to experience life as a regular guy for awhile but actually losing his powers? That's not what he had wanted at all.
Leaning forward he rests his hands on the seat in front. "Marshal! Please. You have to tell the King is was all my fault! Don't let him punish Noct! I'm fully prepared to accept my punishment. Life in prison? Exile? Whatevs. Just don't let him punish Noct."
His eyes shine with unshed tears as he sits back, folding his arms across himself protectively. "I just... I just wanted Noct to have a few days of fun and freedom. I know his Majesty works so hard to keep the wall up, to keep us all safe. You think I don't see what it's doing to him? Ageing him before his time? And I know one day Noct will have to take over and I just wanted him to have some fun before all that..."
my heart hurts for prom /clutches chest
"Prompto, stop," Noctis cuts in after a moment, his tone harsher than he intends it to be. He raises his own hand, rubbing the heel of a palm against his eyes, fighting back the sudden surge of emotions Prompto's words had fought up.
"It's just temporary - like if he punished a Glaive that was misbehaving. And there's no way that my father is going to buy that you somehow convinced me and got me out on your own."
He takes a short huff of breath before he looks at his friend.
"It's worth it, okay? It was worth it to just spend some time and feel like I was just normal for once. Just... let me deal with the consequences instead of taking the fall. That's gonna be my job eventually, right?"
Cor, for his part, is silent for the moment - sensing that this is probably more important to sort out, and quietly relieved that Ignis had sent them to this car instead of theirs.
they both need all the hugs
He doesn't care that Noct is a prince except for when he does care. He doesn't care in the sense that most people think - he's not interested in using Noctis for fame or money or any of that. But the thought that one day in the not too distant future that Noct will have to step up to the plate and become King? That terrifies him. Noctis is his best friend. Hell, Noctis is his whole world. The thought of watching him age and deteriorate in order to hold up the wall, to watch the stress etch his face and weigh down his shoulders. It's almost too much to bear.
It's probably for the best that Prompto has zero idea about the prophecy because he would probably try to take on the Six single-handedly and unarmed to tell them to fuck off and leave Noct alone.
He stubbornly shakes his head. "I'm not letting you take the fall alone, Noct. You're not King yet. I can help carry the load. We're besties, right? Besties stick together."
this is also fun bc i have a cor journal so
"Undoubtedly, blame is going to fall on both of you, but perhaps standing together to take it would be in your best interest." Cor glances to the rearview mirror, and both of the young men sitting stubborn in the back.
"If you will recall, the King was once a young man too. I am sure he would understand both of your desires for each other," what a choice of words, "And would be more inclined towards leniency if both of you were willing to shoulder the burden of responsibility for your actions together."
"... I guess," Noctis admits after a moment, his expression still sullen but a little more relaxed. "He's not going to ban Prompto from being able to see me, right?"
"We all know who the real troublemaker is out of the two of you, and I can say it's not Prompto," Cor says easily, making Noctis splutter a bit.
Cor is awesome
He slinks back in his seat again, toying with the straps of his backpack, still worked up but feeling a little better knowing (or rather, hoping) Cor isn't driving them straight to a torture dungeon. Although facing the King is probably as terrifying as torture. He honestly doesn't know why Regis terrifies him so much either - other than the fact he is the King. Regis has never been anything but nice to Prompto.
Prom can't hold back the slight chuckle at Noct's splutter. It's ironic really, that when he and Noct first started hanging out together at the start of high school, during all the background checks and the first few times they hung out outside of school that there were all kinds of worries that he was some kind of delinquent or rebel who would lead Noctis astray. Truth is, he's probably the purest cinnamon roll to ever walk Eos.
Still, there is a niggling worry that the King (or Ignis) will decide it best that Noctis and Prompto don't see each other for a while. "It's okay, bud. Even though you're a terrible influence on me, I got your back all the way!"
he's around if you ever want a side storyline with training prompto! also went ahead and timeskipped
"Oh, come on," Noctis complains, but his lips are twitching a little bit more in a smile as he looks over at Prompto. Cor himself doesn't smile, but he seems to have an air of smugness about him for having helped the young men stop arguing over who will take the fall.
Of course, there's always a chance that they might be kept from seeing each other - but he's fairly sure it'll be Noctis being prevented from it, and not the other way around. It just depends on how badly Noctis has scared the King, he supposes.
They are indeed taken directly to a meeting with the King, and it probably terrifies Prompto to bits - but in Noctis' estimation, they end up not as bad as he expected.
Sure, he does end up without use of his powers for a short while, and they're not to meet up with each other without an escort - Ignis, Gladio, or one of the Crownsguard - for a month or so, but they're not forbidden from seeing each other and the escort, he's sure, is more for his own sake than Prompto's, considering they don't have Ignis following Prompto around everywhere he goes now.
Noctis is also forbidden to leave the Citadel for a full month as well, which is a bummer for Operation Drunknis, but he supposes he'll have to be patient.
the kid needs all the training he can get
Noct not being able to leave the Citadel is a bummer not only for Operation Drunknis, but also because a new game just came out at the arcade - and also, every time Prom visits the Citadel to visit Noct he feels like he's going to puke or be arrested. Or both.
Prompto has clearance for most areas of the Citadel, so he makes his way to the training area to wait for Noctis to finish his training session with Gladio. He slides a can of Ebony over to Ignis, offering him a smile and a greeting, before cracking open a soda for himself, placing two cans of energy drink aside for Noct and Gladiolus when they're done.
He pulls out his camera so he can snap some super awesome action shots while he waits.
listen, late arrival uncle cor is great, or smutty if you're into that
Yeah, Gladio and Ignis were still pissed - with good reason - for him putting Prompto in danger, and a bit at Prompto that he'd gone along with it, but Noctis was pretty sure everything would be okay... eventually.
If Gladio didn't keep knocking him around with the shield, that was.
"You were supposed to dodge that, princess," Gladio's voice comes from above him, offering a hand, and Noctis groans and pulls himself up.
"It's not my fault you're fast and hit like a truck," Noctis grumbles. When he spots Prompto, he gives him a little wave; once Gladio does as well, he smiles, though he doesn't laugh.
"All right, take five for now." Noctis nods and heads over to Prompto, giving him a smile.
"Hey."
I'm not opposed to either
"Heyaz. Looking good out there, Noct. Well, apart from all the times Gladio knocked you on your ass. Actually, there were quite a few of those times." He's still Team Noctis all the way though.
"I grabbed you an energy drink. Figured the Big Guy was probably working you hard. I thought maybe once you're done we could go to the Gardens - I got a new macro lens and I totes want to try it out... if it's okay with Iggy, of course..." Prom offers a hopeful look at Ignis. He's pretty sure there are a million and one things Ignis would rather be doing than babysitting their dumb asses.
Ignis takes a sip of his Ebony. "I have some files to read over. The garden is as good a place as any, I suppose."
That smile brightens. Prom is a walking beam on sunshine. "Thanks Iggy! You're the best!!"
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Noctis murmurs his thanks to Prompto for the energy drink, popping the tab open and taking his own sip, watching Gladio grab some water. His brows are slightly furrowed in thought, but he looks back over to Prompto.
"Hanging out in the gardens sounds like a good time," he says, glancing up to Ignis and then back to Prompto. "We've just got a few more drills to go through," more like Gladio chasing Noctis down in the mats, "And then I'll be good to go, I think?"
"You will," Gladio agrees from where he's been none-too-subtly listening. "Cor's got his own stuff to deal with today."
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"Should've worn my sweats, I could've run laps while I wait. It's cool though. I'll just entertain myself until you're done. Go kick the Big Guy's butt, Noct! You can do it! I have faith in you. I'll be your personal cheerleader. Woo! Go Team Noct."
Prompto shoots Gladio a grin. "You got this, Gladio. Go whip his ass. Go Team Gladio!" Maybe he has a future in polotics and diplomacy yet.
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"All right, lets get this over with."
Gladio just shoots him a grin just a tad too vicious to be called fully friendly and starts up their training again once Noctis joins him on the mat.
Ignis, meanwhile, is silent for a moment before he speaks, tone quiet enough to not be heard by Noctis. "Have you given the Crownsguard's offer to train you any more consideration, Prompto?"
It was an offer that had been directed through Ignis himself; all the better to obfuscate that in fact it was an invitation to train with the Marshal, directly from the man himself. Best not to intimidate the young man out of the idea, Ignis reasoned.
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He doesn't even consider himself a Niff. He can't even remember a time before his adoption - he was only a baby, after all. As far as he's concerned he's Lucian through and through. It does add more fuel to the haters though - a commoner and a Niff as the Prince's best friend? Ouch.
Prompto watches Noct and Gladio go at it, a soft smile curling at the corner of his lips. The offer had caught him off-guard and he had panicked, most likely flailed and spluttered something about needing time. Honestly, it was a no-brainer, right? Operation Vacay would've gone a lot smoother if Prom just knew how to fight.
"Yeah. I mean, I dunno how good I'll be - I'm definitely no Gladio - but I'd like to be able to have Noct's back, y'know? Who knows what's gonna happen with the war and I just... I wanna be able to keep Noct safe. I would literally die for him, Ig."
more iggy than noct for the moment
In truth they are still more angry with Noctis for taking Prompto along, for playing with an idea he knew to be dangerous. But, Ignis had reasoned to the Marshal, if Prompto could be counted to hold his own, then that was at least one less worry on both of their shoulders.
"That you wish to protect him is something worthy of praise, Prompto." He wants to tell the young man he doesn't have to die, for Noctis, but he's also well aware that seems to be the footnote of Noctis' life; that any and all be willing to give their life for him.
"I will consult with the Crownsguard who offered and see if they have something in mind. Do you have any preferences to what you might train in?" If there's something he has interest in, he may as well alert Cor to it. While the man primarily uses a katana, he also knows the Marshal is trained in many types of weaponry.
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apologies for the delay!
No worries <3
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