hajimetejanai | Cinderfella at the ball (AU ongoing)

It'd been a rough few weeks.

Between their pregnancy scare, the incident at school, and their newly adopted kitten, Prompto had ridden a full rollercoaster of emotions, but he had to keep it together tonight. He and Noct had been preparing for weeks, though it felt like fate was fighting them every step of the way. Prompto had only just managed to get back on track with his diet and fit into the suit they'd measured him for, even if he was nervous wearing it, and he'd managed to take a short social-media hiatus, so he didn't have a complete meltdown over all the articles coming out lately about how many celebrities would be attending and who would be wearing what and whether or not the prince would have a date. Just about every major news network had guessed at Noct's partner, or made some completely wrong theory about who he'd be coming with.

Prompto knew not everyone would approve, that some people might even get upset(strike that, PROBABLY WOULD get upset) about their relationship, but it would finally be out in the open, and even if the rest was stressful, the idea of being able to hold his mate's hand in public made him so incredibly happy that he was committed to trying his very best tonight. He wouldn't let Noct down.

Prompto adjusted his tie for the umpteenth time that afternoon, wondering if light grey and green was really the best color for him. Noct always wore black and this suit, even if he liked the colors, it felt so very stark in comparison to the dark stuff his mate always wore. He was going to stick out like the sun on a cloudy day, piercing through the dark clouds and insisting it be seen. Which, he supposed, was the point, but it hardly made the wardrobe easier, having the constant reminder that he was going to stick out.

It really made him nervous, if he was honest. He knew how high above him Noct's station was, he was literally a commoner, not even Lucian by birth, but it had never been about power or titles between them. He just hoped that the general public could see that, and know that their love was the real deal, that Prompto wasn't some gold-digger or it wasn't some teenage daydream or the result of a horny alpha and omega. He loved Noct just as much when there was no heat at all as he did when in the throes of his body's rambunctious chemistry. Noct was the only one for him, and always would be.

It'd been a whirlwind of a day. He wasn't used to being pampered, but before an event, apparently it was pretty common. He had to repress the urge to bite his newly manicured nails, and his skin felt raw and polished from head to toe, after a day at the spa. He wore a grey three piece suit, glad for the dark green vest to help hide his problem areas. The last few weeks had been rough, and Prompto had a bad habit of eating his troubles, only to run them off the next morning. He'd managed to stay in control, but the vest meant he could actually indulge in the fancy food here, at least a little, without it showing up in photos. The hardest part had been being away from Noct. His Alpha had been a fairly constant presence when he was around others, after Prompto had been cornered by those Alphas at school, but Noct had his own worries and things to prepare for. He'd made sure though, that the staff helping Prompto were betas, or that Prompto had Iggy or Gladio around (even if Gladio was still kind of intimidating). Iggy was pretty good at helping calm his nerves though, and had even taught him some breathing exercises if he got too freaked out.

He tried not to fuss with his hair once again, the stylist had done a good job, better than he'd ever managed, and had even given him a few spiky blond tufts in his up-do, making his usual cut somehow look refined and stylish. Between that and the makeup(light stuff, they told him, mostly for photos) he felt like he was wearing a full-face mask, but so long as he looked alright to be presented as someone who could stand at Noct's side, he would do his best to hold it together. They'd been through a pretty rough time lately, and as hard as it was, Prompto's thoughts were all on Noct.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

From:

starless_sky

It had been a long... something. A long few weeks? Had it only been that long? It felt like ages. Honestly, before the attack at the school felt like another life. Noctis was certainly a different person now, he was a killer and a remorseless one at that. Fortunately, he didn't have to face his victims' parents face to face because he knew he couldn't even pretend to be sad about their loss. He was focused on getting his life back together, or rather, getting Prompto's life back together. Cali helped. Not being pregnant helped... sad as that was to learn it wasn't real.

Honestly, that had been for the best but he still wasn't sure if Prompto would be angry at him if he admitted to feeling that way. He knew they needed more time before they would make the best parents. They'd obviously make it work if they got pregnant soon but... he wanted to wait a while. To at least be married first.

That was all beside the point. He knew that Prompto was stressing about this whole event. The diet, the dancing, the celebrities, cameras, his suit. All of it. The fancy food, the etiquette, the schmoozing idiots which would surely come to Prompto like sharks around a school of fish. It wouldn't be easy but they had to get through this, this would be the hardest one and from then on it would be easier and more familiar. And hopefully not very often. Noctis couldn't stand these things.

Staying offline wasn't even that hard for him, he just played his games offline and didn't log into King's Knight as often. The banner ads sometimes brought up the ball and if he played it then Prompto might play it and... it was just easier to play with Cali instead. She was much cuter than his high score anyway. Tonight was her first night alone in the apartment. He hoped she wouldn't destroy the place...

Prompto's fears were legitimate but there wasn't much Noctis could say to assuage them. The guests at this ball would likely see Prompto as a gold digger because many of them are, in fact, gold diggers. They see Noctis as his title and little else, they see him as a way to be a princess and they want to have his little royal baby so they can stay in the limelight. Most of them would indeed make snide remarks about Noctis only entertaining himself with Prompto, that he'd get bored and move on to someone more his class. Noctis won't be able to protect him from all of those naysayers but he will do his very best.

Ignis and Gladio were kind enough to take over 'babysitting' duty until Noctis was done with all of his ablutions. The suit, the hair, talking to his father, directing his staff to set up his quarters just so. He wanted it to be comfortable for Prompto when they inevitably had to escape up here later. But for now... it was time to start the show. Noctis entered the room Prompto was in, finished dressing, hair perfectly done, eyes poised... he strode over to his mate. He looked nervous as hell but he was so cute like this, look at his hair! And that suit was especially nice.

"Damn you look good in that." the words were soft but Ignis still cleared his throat.

"We'll just be going then. Don't be late for dinner."

"Yeah yeah..." Noctis leaned in as soon as they were gone and stole a quick kiss. "You look fine as hell. You want to skip this and go upstairs?"

From:

hajimetejanai

It'd been a hard time, to be sure, but if anything, it just served as a reminder that they were stronger together. That they could weather difficult things because they relied on one another. Much as he didn't want to admit it, the incident at school would have happened whether or not he was bonded to Noctis. And he was sure it would've been so much worse if he didn't have Noct to hold him and tell him things would be alright.

While their family hadn't started just yet, it had been something of a relief for him too. He didn't have any doubts about his alpha or his ability to protect their family, but they were both so young and inexperienced. Having to raise a child would have been hard, but it was proof that they both wanted it to happen someday, and when it did, that they could support one another through it.

Iggy and Noct had done what they could to prepare him for the political world he was going to step into, and to warn him of the people who might try to use him or influence him to get to the prince. Prompto knew to be wary, but he also had such a hard time saying no, or guessing a person's true intentions. He'd just have to hope that Noct or the others would say something if he got in over his head.

He had to keep reminding himself that things would get better. At the very least, he'd be able to hold Noct's hand in public now without worrying about a scandal. He might fear the paparazzi and what they might say, but being open about their relationship meant a lot to him.

When Noct walked in, he could feel his worries begin to ebb just catching his familiar scent on the air. His nervous jitters became a genuine smile as his mate returned and the others slipped away. He wished there were time for more than the simple kiss, but he smiled into it, fingers running down the chest of the pressed jacket that Noct wore, admiringly.

"Don't tempt me," he blushed, though it was somewhat muted with the makeup, his freckles barely showing through. Afterward though, time with Noct? That was the thing he would most look forward to. He loved it when Noctis got all dressed up like this. It really transformed him. Noct always looked like he ought to be made of marble and admired in some museum, but when he dressed up in that Lucian formalwear? Damn, it made his thoughts drift all sorts of dirty little places.

"You know I do," his voice was a sultry whisper, something he was getting a little better at, but it still felt embarrassing if he thought about it too much. Prompto let his body press in closer for a moment, teeth grazing his lower lip in anticipation for a moment before he pulled back, taking a half-step away.

"But that's for later, right? Gotta earn it," he sent a playful wink in Noct's direction. Sure, he joked around to hide his nerves, but he'd enjoy the fun atmosphere while he could.

From:

starless_sky

The incident at school most likely would have happened regardless. Noctis knew that too, he knew he wouldn't have been able to stop it either. He wouldn't have been as attuned to Prompto's scent, absence, or the presence of other Alphas. He wouldn't have had the societal excuse of defending one's mate to help him with the murders either. Murders... he wouldn't have committed because the way this happens in his mind when he imagines it, they finish their attack and Prompto goes unrescued. He's lost sleep over the thought more than once.

Luckily, that wasn't the case. It was bad but it could have been worse... they could have been pregnant at the time. Noctis would have killed all three of them for that, he knows it. He may have snarled at every crownsguard and glaive who came to examine Prompto too. The territorial rage in him wouldn't have been easy to resist. All the more reason it was best to wait for kids, he needed to grow up a little more. More than a little.

Gladio and Ignis were up on their nobility. Gladio had plenty of tips on who to avoid. He promised he and Iggy would keep an eye on him and if Noctis got surrounded by people they would come bail Prompto out. Ignis was more about etiquette... Gladio was more about who was a liar and a suckup and who would be advantageous to get to know better. Being from the highest-ranking noble family he knew everyone and being a social person he knew them all fairly well.

Noctis though... he would not have argued if Prompto had said yes. They could just disappear upstairs and make it an evening to remember between the sheets. He'd hear about it from his father but he could handle that. It wasn't the best idea, they needed this, just so Prompto could hold his hand in public, he knew that was important to his mate. So they had to slog through the dinner, the card games, the music and dancing, the schmoozing, the booze... actually, the booze might help. But still. He was so ready to skip ahead like five or six hours and just go straight to bed.

"You better be careful with that wink, I might have to take you aside somewhere." he lies. He can't do a quickie with Prompto. They are never quick and they just turn into long drawn-out lovemaking sessions. He stepped over to his mate and offered his arm.

"Dinner first... you're great at this part. And the menu has your favorites in it." Not necessarily Noct's favorites but Regis mercifully asked for the things Prompto had favored during their dates to the upper-class restaurants. The dining room has a long table and several smaller ones. People are already arriving and Regis is waiting for them in a side room. They are to be announced once everyone else is seated.

"Just don't make eye contact with people okay, smile if you want but... just don't look right at them until we all sit."

From:

hajimetejanai

Prompto had a hard enough time telling people no, he couldn't imagine being around an alpha who compelled him or bullied him or took advantage of his myriad of weaknesses. Noct had never pushed him, made sure his decisions were his own, asked instead of took. Lots of omega weren't so lucky. And while his experience had left its own sort of scars, Prompto could be glad, at least, that it had been the beginning of positive change and better conditions for the omega at their school.

While Noct was quiet about it, Prompto was sure those murders still weighed on his mate. They weighed on Prompto too, and while he'd fought back where he could, he still struggled not to blame himself for not seeing it coming, for not being a better fighter, for being dumb enough to fall for their ruse in the first place.

All things he was glad were in the past, slowly healing. No longer gaping wounds, but still fresh, not quite scabbed over with time. He wanted to focus on the positive and tonight was their night. Scary as this new adventure seemed, they could only avoid it for so long.

And besides, wasn't this just the sort of thing that fairytales made children wish for? A charming prince, a formal ball, food that was to-die-for delicious, twirling around a dance floor while looking into his true love's eyes? It was hard not to feel like he was waiting for the catch, for the rug to be pulled out under him, for the tragic ending or the cautionary tale, but for Prompto, it really did feel like he'd gotten everything he dreamed of. And for that, he could handle a little of the scary, the press, and the politics.

"Yeah, eating I can do no problem," he laughed. The fancy places Noct had taken him to were always such a treat. He felt like he was eating tiny works of art on the plates. It was hard not to chew his lip in embarrassed gratitude that Noct had thought to put his favorites on the menu, but he was even more concerned he'd mess with his makeup and the remnants of the shiny gloss they'd given him for his lips.

"Aaaah really? I can't wait to taste it!" he added, wondering if any of those dessert wines would be an option. The stuff made his head spin a little, but it did wonders for taking away his nerves.

"Right. Smile, don't look at anyone," Prompto repeated, threading his arm through Noct's at the elbow before following his lead. Seeing Noct's father, Regis, was a comfort too, the man had been surprisingly warm and welcoming as Prompto became more of a staple in his son's life. He hadn't been sure what to expect, honestly, but Regis had become closer to him in the few months he and Noct had been living together than his own parents had.

He gave Noct's arm a reassuring squeeze.

From:

starless_sky

Noctis was determined not to be one of the lowlife rats, what he called the bully alphas that used their gender and pheromones to control and subdue omega. It was cheap and thuggish, he wasn't going to be that type of partner. He knew the power he had over Prompto, it scared him sometimes just how easy it was to compel his mate to do anything. So he had to be sure he asked things of Prompto that were in his best interest.

Noctis killed them and thus he deserved to suffer his mild discomfort for the rest of his life. He deserved worse but this is what he had. If Prompto isn't disgusted with him and doesn't fear his temper now... that's a blessing in itself. Noctis honestly cannot bring himself to feel anything for the grieving families and that's probably the worst part. He was much more concerned with Prompto's well-being, though that would just take time and repetition now.

Fairy tales... those also involve curses, wishes, bad luck, monsters, kidnappings and the like. They aren't all happy times. He used to have a favorite book of stories as a kid, one was about a dragon that tormented a village until some kids fed it a loaf of bread and it turned into a cat. It read like the original snickers bar hunger commercial... kind of reminded him of Cali when she was hungry. She was a vocal girl, alright...

But Prompto was the dream come true, he just doesn't see it. In all these people Prompto is the one who sees things as they really are. He isn't tainted by the politics, money, glamour, or other bullshit. Noctis is also enchanted with him, as is obvious the second they are introduced and head to the main table. Prompto is seated mercifully across from him. Regis at the head of the table, Prompto in the place of honor. Above all the other nobles, CEOs, ambassadors, or socialites. Prompto was on Regis' right, Noctis on his left. Normally, the king preferred to break up couples in a large dinner service so as to get people to mingle with those they might not otherwise speak to. But tonight Prompto needed to be safe and this ball was about him after all. He deserved the place of honor. People stared. Not enough to be rude but... they kept glancing. Who was this? This isn't the person they expected, this wasn't the model/actress/pop singer/noble girl that was rumored to be on the prince's arm tonight.

Noctis' eyes don't leave his partner and as soon as they are in place, Regis sits. Everyone sits. No one may sit until the king sits. Regis motions for the dinner service to begin, he turns to Prompto. "You look well this evening, I want to thank you for coming, Prompto. It has been a long time since we had a worthy cause to celebrate." his son's happiness was the greatest cause of them all... save for perhaps the birth of a grandchild. Regis would be over the moon.

The first course came out. The amuse-bouche; sweet potato chips with goat cheese and caviar. Noctis was subtle about examining his. It technically didn't have anything he didn't like on it. He liked starchy potatoes, sweet ones were.... okay. He liked cheese, he loved caviar. Anything fishy was his favorite. He ate it delicately and closed his eyes for a long second. Ah, lovely.

From:

hajimetejanai

Prompto tried to push the negative thoughts away and focus on the moment, clinging a little tighter to Noct's arm as they're introduced. He has to clamp down on his burning need to hide behind Noct like a baby Anak calf, but he keeps his posture straight and though his smile is faint as he stares straight ahead, he manages to keep it, doing his best to ignore the camera flashes. His stomach lurches at the crowd's reaction, noisy and curious, gasps and exclamations. Only Noct can feel him trembling.

He's not sure how to handle being so blatantly in the spotlight like this, and as he's seated next to the king, in a place of honor, he feels his legs get wobbly and he's grateful to Regis for sitting quickly, so he can follow suit. As long as he focuses his attention on Noct, directly across from him, or Regis to his left, he'll try not to worry too much about all the people on his right.

Prompto's posture is stiff and a little awkward as they wait for the first course, but Regis smiles and Noct looks encouraging and he lets out a shaky breath, his smile crooked, but honest.

"Oh, thank you Re- ah- Your Majesty. I'm... I'm honored, this is so kind, really. I- um. I'm so glad we can- well- tell the world about our relationship," he started a bit nervously, unsure of whether or not he was supposed to use their royal titles at such a formal event. He knows Iggy must have mentioned it, but it's gone right out of his head. Regis knew, already, how he felt, but it seemed part of this big production to vocalize it and let the world know.

"Right Noct?" he turned toward his mate, nudging his foot under the table, hoping he'd get a bit more conversation and idle talk to keep things moving without resorting to talking about the weather. He was a little too nervous to start crunching down on the amuse-bouche, but he reached for his water glass, only barely managing not to knock over his table setting.

From:

starless_sky

Prompto looks cute when he's shy, at least Noctis thinks so. He doesn't mention the tighter grip on his arm, just takes Prompto to his chair and pulls it out for him. It's not Noct's role to do that whatsoever but he... felt like it. A few of the dinner guests were surprised though they said nothing. The palace staff were trained well not to respond though this was unprecedented for the prince. As small as the gesture was... it wasn't his place to do anything for Prompto. To be honest, Noctis didn't put much thought into it, he just wanted to deliver Prompto to his position without abandoning him. He wouldn't leave him alone to flounder tonight.

Once they were seated and the food and wine came around he was much more comfortable just being surrounded by noise. Chatter, silverware clinking against plates. Music. He zoned out almost immediately, really just trying to tempt himself to get through this by imagining the filthy things he'd do with Prompto once they escaped to his bedroom. Then Prompto nudged his foot. He blinked.

"Huh-oh yeah. Yeah." whatever he was supposed to be saying yes to. Regis chuckled then.

"A 'yea dear' moment if I ever saw one. I am grateful to have a chance to talk to you both, I am... pleased as well. There is freedom in being able to be who you are together. You know, Noctis' mother and I were a secret for quite a long time before we ever made ourselves public." he smiled a bit slyly. Noctis sipped his wine.

"That's because you were teenagers for half that time."

"You seem to have taken after your mother and me quite closely in that department." Regis speaks softly, just loud enough to be heard. This is basically public, though he has nothing to hide per se, he just wishes for this to be between himself and his sons. "Not that I am judging." he looked to Prompto. "If you are ever fortunate enough to find love you should hold onto it with both hands."

Noctis watched Prompto as his father talked, noticing his shakiness. Poor thing. It didn't help that all eyes were on them, especially those of a forlorn and jealous noble girl sitting between her father and brother. Iris mostly stared at Noctis but once in a while she'd glance at Prompto with a look of jealousy, sorrow, and a scant bit of impatience.

From:

hajimetejanai

Prompto had a hard time doing much more than nibbling at the amuse-bouche, but the wine and music and sound of other people starting up their own conversations was a nice distraction. Noctis seemed distracted too, in his own way, and Prompto tried not to look too concerned when he finally looked up to mumble a reply. Was he alright? He hadn't actually seen how Noct acted at these sort of events before, he hoped it wasn't stressing Noct out as much as it was for Prompto.

He flushed a brighter pink as Regis seemed to have noticed the distraction as well and hoped Noct wasn't too bothered to be called out on it. The king seemed to be taking it good-naturedly though, and Prompto's lips formed a quiet "oh" as the man talked about his own experiences.

"Really?" he started, though Noct seemed to have heard this story before, and Prompto flushed a shade brighter when Regis compared them to his own relationship. He took a bit longer of a pull from his wine glass than he meant to, and nodded at the king's advice.

"I plan to," he smiled, somewhat shyly, "I'd do anything for Noct. He's my best friend."

Much more than best friends, he knew, but even if their relationship had never become physical, he had so much to be grateful for in the depth of their emotional bond. They could spend a whole day doing nothing but enjoying one another's company, whether it was a video game marathon, or cramming for final exams, or just taking long naps.

He caught Noct noticing a girl a few years younger than either of them, not understanding the significance of the look, or why she stared. When she did eventually look in his direction, he offered a smile and a bit of a wave, though she seemed kind of upset. Was that Gladio's little sister? He'd only heard mention of her before, but he knew the king's shield, both by name and reputation, as well as Gladio, the shield-in-training. Maybe he could introduce himself after dinner?

"The food is so good," he said after a brief pause in the conversation, "I'll never get used to it."

From:

starless_sky

They had a lot more courses coming, no need to scarf it all down. Noctis was going to eat sparsely too. Especially since the soup course coming next had beans in it. Uuuuugh. He wasn't stressed exactly he just wasn't comfortable with this much attention on him. He got through these things by not being present. Regis was going to help Prompto reel him in.

"Noctis... I believe I heard you two have adopted a pet?"

Noctis blinked. Then he couldn't help the smile. "I texted you a photo of her."

"Yes, but tell me again please, the whole story." son. Engage. For the love of all the gods.

Noctis was hard to get to talk on the spot but asking about Cali greased the wheels so to speak. Soon Noctis was talking about the whole thing, how she ended up on the balcony, how they didn't know where she came from, leaving the apartment to go to the vet. Naming her. He could go on and on.

"She's a mess, she has toys but she prefers to chase a bottle cap around the floor." he is a proud father. He's beaming.

Regis smiled, hopefully this story helps ease Prompto's stress.

"Yes, Aulea and I knew each other as children... it was... how should I say it. We were inseparable since childhood and it was inevitable that we married." he smiles wistfully when he speaks of her. "Come by my office soon. I want to show you photos of her, I can tell you about her." he is charmed by Prompto, not necessarily what he's saying but the sincerity with which he says it. He knows Prompto's love for Noctis is true and that's the best he can hope for for his son.

Noctis knew it too, it was the best being together. It was so easy to spend time with Prompto. Even doing nothing at all was fun, just talking, goofing off, napping. He felt calm with Prompto.

Iris was young, no longer a tween, but still with a baby face. She had fancied Noctis for years and had her heart set on marrying him. She is still in shock that this stranger, this... newcomer is just here. Across from Noctis. Her Noctis. She had it all planned out in her head and her heart. She just needed Noctis to get on board with it too.

The next course came out. A white bean and toasted garlic soup. Noctis tried not to visibly gag. "Beans? Really?"

From:

hajimetejanai

Prompto was relieved when Regis was able to get Noct to engage, at least a little, in the conversation. Cali, of course, was an easy topic, and while he didn't quite dare call her Regis' "grandbaby" just yet, it was cute to see father and son talk and enjoy listening to one another.

"The pictures don't do her justice," Prompto insisted, despite being the one who'd taken them, "we'll have to bring her sometime. I'm sure she'd love you."

It was impossible not to relate to the king's story of his wife; Prompto found himself smiling softly right along with the older man, nodding.

"I'd love to see photos. Did you take them? I... dunno if Noct mentioned, but I'm really into photography," he added, a little shyly. He never liked bragging about his talents, but hopefully it came across that way.

He sent Noct a smile, the foot that had reached to tap him before toeing lightly at Noct's shoe.

Though he'd made a mental note to talk to the girl after the meal, she barely registered in his thoughts after, oblivious to her jealousy and frustration. The next course was arriving and Prompto closed his eyes as he inhaled the strong scent of garlic.

"I dunno how you can say it when it smells this good," Prompto shook his head, feeling the slightest buzz from the wine as he took his first bite. Little by little, he was relaxing, turning it from a stiff, formal evening into a nice dinner with the people he wanted to call family.

From:

starless_sky

Noctis will have to work on this, he isn't one to engage well when he was on display. Prompto must know he hates such things but this is what balls are for. To put the citadel and the royal family on display like fucking zoo animals. So everyone can come and gawk.

"I would love to meet her, she seems like a special animal to have made it to your apartment."

"She's a survivor." Noctis was so proud. His phone is burning a hole in his pocket. He wants to look at his photos of their daughter.

Regis could tell Prompto was at least listening to his story. Noctis was a touch embarrassed by it, he would prefer to have this conversation in private but it was no matter. You didn't correct the king in front of a table full of guests.

"I did happen to take several of them. Clarus took a few, he is a better photographer than I. And... I have heard, Noctis informed me you are quite the photographer. How long have you been doing it?" Noctis so wanted to jump in and answer that Prompto used to take photos of dogs and cats when they were kids but he let that be Prompto's thing. If he was caught up talking to his father then Noct could just check out like normal. Good.

Iris would try not to be a bother but she might have to come talk to Prompto tonight or later on. She just... wants to make herself known. She may or may not still have delusions that she can win Noctis' heart.

"I can say it easy. Beans?" Noctis popped a spoonful in his mouth and tried not to groan. He has to forcefeed himself this stuff just to get through this party. But at least there is garlic to help cover it up. Why... just why would humanity ever decide these needed to be eaten and that they were also fine dining?

Once the soup is finished then it's the salad course. Dark leafy greens, onions, tomatoes, carrots, a tart vinaigrette. Noctis wants to die.

From:

hajimetejanai

Prompto nods in agreement and happily makes plans for the king to either visit or for them to bring his "grand-daughter" in to see the citadel and his office. He can just imagine the fun Cali would have, tearing around the throne room or scampering through the halls. As long as she didn't go climbing any capes or robes of the officials walking about, it should be fine.

Noct seemed a little shy, which was honestly, kind of really cute. It wasn't often Noct was the one out of his element, and while Prompto's extroverted nature was a slowly ticking battery that would surely run out before the night was up, he could at least ride the high while it lasted.

"Oh- um- Well, your Majesty, I guess... I mean, I got my first camera when we were still in grade school, but I don't really count it til I started studying and got myself an SLR. It's not like, a fancy Lokton or anything, but it lets me play around with the settings and I learned a lot about theory and... stuff."

He realized he was rambling excitedly and his cheeks colored, "but um- really? I didn't know Gladio's father was into photography too."

Prompto shot Noct an amused smile; he really shouldn't be enjoying Noct's frustration with the veggies, but he just barely manages to conceal a laugh at the face he pulls when a salad is set before him. Prompto, on the other hand, is happy to have something light and easy on his stomach. It's probably the first thing that's been served that he really digs into, as he polishes off the last of his wine.

Maybe this isn't so bad after all.

From:

starless_sky

Regis would be overjoyed to be honest. He knows Noctis always wanted a pet and he had a habit of chasing kittens in the citadel garden as well as behind the palace. Cali would need a bell and as soon as she was let loose she'd zoom off to gods know where. Once she is brought to the citadel she will run it. She will appear in laundry baskets, under silver catering domes, on any chair someone is about to sit in. She will be a menace. But a cute one.

Noctis would be surprised if he knew his mate was surprised about his shyness. Didn't Prompto know he hated crowds and a lot of attention? He just wanted to get through this, his battery was draining too. He wondered who would be depleted first.

"What attracted you to photography first? Forgive me... I am unfamiliar with the brand names of cameras. But please, don't be shy, I appreciate learning new things and who better to learn from than an enthusiast?" a smile. "Clarus isn't on your level I believe... but he could work our tripod while we traveled as younger men. My steward insisted on bringing the thing." he has photos of then too, painful ones when he sees the faces he hasn't seen in decades...

Noctis is offend. How dare you look at him like this is funny. He is having a crisis and all you can do is laugh. He sees that laugh, Prompto, don't think you can hide it from him. And while Prompto gets a refill on his wine Noctis is trying to just... work his magic and make it look like he ate more of this salad than he actually did and just make it go away.

At least the next course was the fish course. Thank the gods, he was saved. He could finally eat.

From:

hajimetejanai

"Oh, I actually just wanted to take pictures of the pets in my neighborhood. I couldn't have one of my own, but they were all just so cute, I wanted to remember them," he said in reply. He hadn't meant to get into cameras so much at first, he'd just wanted something with a better sport function for capturing the animals in movement without blurring badly.

Prompto begins to perks up immediately at being given the option to chatter about photography. Regis, like his son, seems to have a knack for helping Prompto get past his nerves. He goes on for a couple minutes about brands and tries not to use any particularly difficult jargon in talking about things like shutter speed, lighting, and composition.

"You guys traveled together?" he asked, then kicked himself, "O-oh, right! I think I remember reading about that in history classes."

It was some kind of pilgrimage, if he remembered right. Something about the king having to travel to talk to the Astrals and make sure they could call on them if they were needed. He wondered if Noct would ever have to do something like that. A journey did sound fun. He'd been pretty sheltered, but that was mostly due to the war waging outside the kingdom's wall. Made it kinda hard to see much of Eos without the threat of invasion.

If they weren't in a giant official dinner sort of thing, Prompto would definitely have offered to take on some of Noct's veggies, and even trade him a bit of his fish in return, but it seems like it's not the sort of place where trading dishes is smiled upon.

He hardly notices the wine glass being refilled, believing he's still on the first glass, and not as careful with how quickly he's drinking it. Still, the heavier courses are coming, so he supposes it should balance out some of the alcohol sitting in his stomach. Otherwise he'll just have to try his best not to embarrass the royal family. No big deal.

"Ooh, what kind of fish is this?"

From:

starless_sky

Regis has to take a moment because his future son-in-law is absolutely precious. He just takes a moment to appreciate the innocent joy in his heart. There is a beautiful authenticity about Prompto. He'd seen it before but even here, even now in the moment of spotlight Prompto is only himself, he puts on no airs, he pretends to be no one else... Regis can see why Noctis is attracted to him.

And he learns about cameras too! He has an idea what to get Prompto for his birthday this year at least. He can be a decent father-in-law. Or future one. There was little difference in his eyes.

"Yes, we had a rather long journey together. One I expect Noctis will need to take when the time is right... I have several photos from that time that did not make it into the textbooks." those photos brought only pain now but he would tell Prompto the happy stories and try to wear a genuine smile. He missed Cid, missed Weskham. It felt like a lifetime since they parted ways...

Noct would not object to swapping plates right here in the middle of this very dinner. What stopped him was his father's knowing look, the one that warned he'd be in for punishment like a child if he dared break that particular rule of etiquette. Noctis forced down some veggies until it was time to change courses and then he was blessed with fish. Finally. Real food.

"...Trout." he took a bite and let it sit in his mouth. "...With capers. And parsley." he smiled and dug in. An excited glint in his eyes.

A chuckle from a ways down the table. "Aha, Noct loves fish. He's loved it since he was little." Iris sat up with a proud smirk. "That's been his favorite since we were kids." we. As if she isn't still a tween.

From:

hajimetejanai

It's hard to properly balance when talking to the King of Lucis, Prompto realizes. In most of their private conversations, he's insisted on Regis(or Dad), and he's certain neither is appropriate at a formal dinner. But the man has such a way with conversation, making those around him feel comfortable and at ease, he's worried he'll slip up if he's not careful.

He's excited to follow up and hear about Regis' journey though. Especially if Noct is thinking about taking one like it in the future. Will he be able to come along? The idea of being without Noct for any length of time sounds unbearable, but thinking of tagging along and making their own photo album of their travels sounds like a lot of fun.

"Ooh, like behind-the-scenes stuff, that sounds so cool Your Majesty! Next time we visit, for sure!" he promised, fully intending to make good on it. Noct had probably seen and heard the story before, but Prompto would be bouncing excitedly in his seat to hear it.

"What was your favorite place to visit? I've heard Galdin Quay is really nice, but I'd love to see Altissia in person someday. Is it as nice as they say?"

He could happily keep up conversation with Noct's father, at least, and he should be the most intimidating person at the table. Helped that they'd had the chance to interact at least a handful of times since he'd moved in with Noctis.

Prompto was impressed that Noct actually managed to eat some of his veggies before the plate was cleared and the next course brought out. He'd missed the look from Regis, and sent Noct an encouraging smile instead.

"Should've known," he nodded, taking a small bite of his own. Fish wasn't his favorite, but he wasn't picky either. Anything they made at the citadel was bound to be fantastic.

The girl a little way down the table piped up, seemingly eager for something to contribute to the conversation. He hadn't realized he'd been loud enough for her to hear, but he could understand wanting to be part of the chatter. Though he was kind of surprised, and it showed in his expression briefly. She had to be one of Noct's friends if they'd known eachother since they were kids, but he couldn't recall Noctis saying much about her.

"Oh, you knew Noct growing up?" he asked, genuinely curious and completely missing the jealous note as he sent Noct a playful smirk of his own, "you must have some great embarrassing stories, huh?"

From:

starless_sky

Regis adores being called Dad. He has honestly fantasized here and there about who Noctis might marry and he hoped he would have a good relationship like this one with his son's partner. He is overjoyed to have Prompto. The more time they spend together, the more he understands his son's choices. The press may have their opinions but Regis supports his son's decision one hundred percent in this case.

"There is no need to stand on ceremony if you wish to refer to me as you do when we are alone. But yes, they are rather... time capsules of a sort now. You can see how Cor looked when he was a young man." Regis chuckled. "I used to lecture him terribly back then. And yes... Galdin Quay is a beautiful place. It has become more of a resort town since I was last there. It used to be a quiet fishing village."

Noct's ears perked up. "Fishing village? Maybe we should go."

"No one is leaving the city."

"But..."

"Altissia... the photographs do not do it justice. When this war calms down... you and Noctis must visit. It's a city you should see with your own eyes."

"Does it really sit on the water?" Noctis asked, his fish already eaten.

"It does, it's a marvel. But it is a very... artistic city. Did you finish already?" he blinked at his son setting his fork and knife together at 4 o'clock.

"I was hungry."

Regis just sighed, mostly bemused.

Iris, on the other hand, was so ready to talk. She wasn't too far away, her father and one delegate sat between her and Noctis. She had a higher pitched voice that cut through the chatter too. "Yeah! Noct and I have known each other since we were little! He's my best friend. I got lots of stories!"

Noctis is not looking at her, he wishes he had more fish to busy himself eating. Why did he inhale it? How rude... please bring the next court, please bring the next course, please bring the next course...

It's smoked turkey with a honey glaze.

From:

hajimetejanai

Prompto can feel his ears pink as Regis asks him to call him "Dad" in front of the assembled politicians and families, but nods shyly. At the mention of the famous Marshal though, Prompto perks up, grinning.

"Woah, really? Marshal Leonis?"

He can't imagine Cor as a youngster, and the idea of him getting lectured by a young Regis is nothing short of hilarious, in his opinion. It takes a genuine effort to stifle a giggle. He was glad for the talk of fishing though, it definitely brought Noct into the conversation and gave him a chance to chat with his dad, even if the idea of a trip was quickly shot down. Once all the peace treaties and battles were done, Prompto was sure they'd get a chance to see it. Maybe they could even all go together, like a family vacation?

"It sounds beautiful," Prompto chimed in. All the photographs he'd seen of Altissia had such a romantic feel to them. He wouldn't mind a private trip, just the two of them. He could already imagine taking a slow gondola ride along the waterways, or staying in any of the fancy hotels on the waterfront.

Prompto picked somewhat delicately at his fish, taking sips of the wine inbetween and feeling the heady rush as his second glass started to hit him, leaving him with a faint rosy glow.

As the young woman piped up again though, Prompto was struck by the word best friend, glancing to Noct as if to verify that. Maybe it was the wine, giving him little irrational thoughts, but he couldn't deny a pang of jealousy thinking of the years he'd spent watching from a distance instead of talking to Noct, too worried about what the prince would think of his appearance than the fun they could have been having.

"Ah, really? How did you guys meet?" he asked with a slight tilt of his head. He'd have an easier time believing it if Noct was at all engaged in the conversation with her instead of seeming way more interested in his food, or at least pushing what remained of it around on his plate.

From:

starless_sky

Regis cares not for the opinions of others on this matter. It is a family matter and for tonight he is feeling a bit casual. In something more serious he might expect to be called 'your majesty' by both his sons but this is not a formal ceremony. Merely a meal. He had to be grateful to Prompto. Because of him he saw Noctis more in the past few months than he had since he moved into his apartment. They made time for each other regularly, he wasn't a stranger to his child. He got to see them both face to face... and that was the real treasure here. It was something he could never pay Prompto back for but he loved the boy for it.

"Oh yes, he was a rapscalion. I must tell you the stories sometime. Clarus can help, he has a way of retelling some of them that is a bit more comedic." Noctis blinked.

"Clarus tells jokes? Good one." Clarus did have a sense of humor. A very dry one. It showed up rarely with the weight of his job on his shoulders but he used to be much more carefree.

Regis and Noctis were of the same mind as Prompto then, all three men thinking the same thing; that it would be nice to have a trip together as a family of three. Somewhere outside Insomnia when peace finally came. But Noctis wouldn't say no to a private trip just the two of them... depending on how much they like Altissia he might take Prompto there for their honeymoon.

Noct's eyes were anywhere but on Iris. Even as she started the cringe-worthy stories about her playing with him when they were kids. As if that happened that many times but they were precious to her and he appreciated that. He didn't want to talk about it now, he didn't want to have to explain it to Prompto in front of her. If he said anything here he'd have to basically confirm she is right to spare her feelings but that would make Prompto seem lied to and that just wasn't the case... he had thought of saying this earlier but how could he have explained Iris in a way that didn't sound like an asshole trying to start shit?

His eyes focus on that wine glass. Uh... how is he supposed to remind his mate to slow down with the drinking without calling him out?

"Oh, we both like cats."

"Noct saved me!" Iris' eyes were round as her plate. She was so excited, clearly having waited for an audience for this story. Noctis just watched as the wait staff brought out the palate cleanser. Please be Prosecco.

From:

hajimetejanai

Prompto can't imagine the stoic marshal as any sort of rapscallion, nor the king's shield having a sense of humor, but a couple months ago, he would've said the same thing of the king himself, and he'd gotten to know much more of the human being behind the crown and title. He had to remember the others were likely the same.

"Sure thing uh- Regis, we should have like, a scrapbook day, invite your old friends, yeah?" he suggested. For as talkative as he was, Prompto enjoyed listening to others more, he just happened to have a lot of fairly quiet friends, so it fell to him to fill the silence.

He hoped Altissia was in the cards for the near future. He knew travel was hard to come by, but maybe if they could broker a peaceful treaty with Niflheim, they'd get a chance at it. Otherwise, well, they'd just have to settle for some of Insomnia's points of interest. Not that a little mini-getaway with Noct didn't sound fun too. The apartment was nice, but maybe they could get a hotel somewhere, definitely something with a jacuzzi. Maybe he'd do some research on those themed fantasy room hotels with the big, heart-shaped beds and rose-petal covered tubs.

He was getting off-track, startled back into the conversation when Iris and Noctis both blurted something out at the same time. Prompto had to blink a few times, putting both sentences together, both food and drink ignored. Cats and... some sort of rescue? Well, that sounded about right for Noct.

"O-oh yeah?" Prompto wasn't sure he ought to ask, but hopefully Noct wouldn't be too bothered. What followed was a tale of heroism, a gallant prince rescuing a princess from the dark and scary night. It sounded right, sort of, but it also sounded like someone who didn't know Noct, or how much he disliked being thought of as any sort of prince charming.

He tried to catch Noct's eyes across the table, but found himself just nodding along to her story, offering a small smile as she went on about the prince's virtues.

"If it wasn't for him, I'd have been lost out there for hours," she lamented, not sure if she wanted to include the part where he'd taken the blame for her sneaking out where she shouldn't be, at least, not at the dinner table.

"I'm sure the cat helped, but Noct's a really good guy," Prompto agreed, giving him another playful nudge under the table. If anything, it only confirmed his theory. Whatever version of Noct this girl knew, it wasn't the same Noct he knew. It was a younger Noct, a distant facade, the same one that kept him apart from so many of his classmates.

"I'm glad he had a friend like you around," he added.

From:

starless_sky

They all had their own personalities that had to be shelved in order to run this kingdom. Regis used to be a real daredevil, racing cars with Cid like he was trying to die. That was before he was married, a king, or on his journey. It was stupid then, they were already at war. He met Cid through the war effort, they were both mechanics to the army.

"Scrapbooking?" he smiled as though it was a joke. "I... am unsure how to do it but I will bring my best effort. I suppose Cor and Clarus would enjoy it too, going through those old photos..." his eyes turned wistful, and then a bit sad, deeply sad for just a flash. Then he was back in the moment.

Altissia made for a nice long-term goal. For now... Noctis could swing a hotel. Maybe for their anniversary or maybe just for fun if they didn't feel like waiting that long. He could get into the idea of a bath and even stupidly romantic rose petals if it was with Prompto. Only with him.

Then the story went on and Noctis did feel a little nauseated by the heroic retelling. Ugh, was that a look of pride on Gladio's face? Kill him now. Regis had a very thoughtful look as he listened to the story.

"I do not recall this incident..." he said softly. The palate cleanser came out... it was indeed Prosecco. Noctis just put his glass to his lips. Thank the gods for wine. Regis was thinking long and hard about it.

"...I do recall you claimed you took Iris out with you to play in the rain alone, you had not told anyone you had left. I grounded you for it. It had seemed such out of place behavior for you... Did you lie to me then? To spare her a punishment?"

Clarus looked between his king, the prince, and his daughter. "I do not believe I have heard this side of the story before either..."

Iris suddenly looked a bit put on the spot. She hadn't expected her audience to be so critical of the clearly delightful story. She tried to reorganize her thoughts and explain that she'd been unable to speak when Gladio appeared, angry with fear and concern. Noctis just... he stepped in and took the blame. He'd saved her and then he saved her from punishment too.

"Don't be mad at him for lying, your majesty!" she beseeched.

"I am not, Iris, do not worry yourself." the king smiled but he was looking at his boy with a certain pride in his eyes. Noctis was finishing his wine looking more and more like a scared rabbit about to leap back into its hole.

"Noctis..."

"So... there's a new fishing spot I found. It's on the north end of town."

From:

hajimetejanai

"Oh, I mean," Prompto started, worried he'd picked a bad subject, "I'm no artist about it, I just like having 'em in a book so they're easy to look through. But if you haven't sorted 'em in a while, it might be good, make sure they're still in good condition and all, yeah? I could bring one of mine too, I've gotta start one for Cali or all my memory cards are going to be nothing but a certain little kitten!"

The thought of a vacation with Noct felt like daydream enough. He might not admit it, but he loved the cheesy romantic gestures, the stuff that seemed ridiculously over the top or only in movies. He'd never expect anything fancy like that, but it was more about the thought that went into it. As long as his love was thinking of him, that's all he could want.

There was an odd tension building at the table and Prompto struggled to keep up, wondering if something in the young woman's story had triggered an odd memory, or if there was more to it than she'd let on. Noct had lied about something between them, it sounded like it'd been to spare her punishment or trouble. He hadn't known Noct to be untrue, but he could definitely see his mate omitting some truth if it spared someone else's feelings. Even if it meant he was the one hurt because of it. Prompto could relate.

It did seem like Regis, whatever it had been about, wasn't upset though. In fact, he seemed almost relieved to hear about it. Like it was a point of pride. Had Noct caught that?

Prompto glanced from his mate to Regis to the young woman. She'd... grown rather withdrawn as Noctis fought to change the subject. The whole thing was strange, but he didn't want to push Noct or the girl, so he tried to lighten the conversation, setting his chin in his hand as he looked across the table at Noctis.

"In town? Are you really gonna catch anything in the middle of the city?" he asked dubiously, though he let his gaze slide over to the girl. She was staring, and turned away immediately as Prompto caught her eye, focusing on her meal, a flush on her face that made her seem on the verge of tears. Yeah, he'd definitely have to ask Noct later. He didn't wanna step on that landmine in conversation again if he could help it.

From:

starless_sky

Regis offered a forgiving smile. He hadn't meant to bear his emotions so much, he didn't mean to startle the boy. "I think I am due for a nice clean-out. And a memory book will be a very nice addition to the photo albums. I would enjoy having a scrapbooking session with you." he chuckled. "You should bring your photos of her along, I think the last one I saw was one Noct sent me of her sleeping on his chest." they were napping, having father-daughter bonding time.

Noctis cringed at the overly romantic stuff... though strangely since he had been with Prompto he hadn't cringed quite so hard at such things. He loved his mate, he'd do anything that made him happy. Maybe drop a few hints, he can take a hint even if it's about dorky heart-shaped tubs and candlelit dinners.

It is a stupid tension and Noctis is both marveling that this could even happen and wondering how he hadn't thought to explain Iris ahead of time. She's just not on his radar the way she thinks she is. She fancies herself very important to him and she is but not in the way she would like. He could have just said that to Prompto but it simply did not occur to him and now he's in the snake pit. Iris is going on about her version of this which is grossly embellished, he'd like to say. Except he doesn't because he won't humiliate her in front of everyone.

He did notice his father's prideful look and he just wanted to melt into the floor. It wasn't a big deal, stop looking at him.

Gods bless his beloved who took his shaky attempt to change the subject and ran with it.

"Oh yeah, you can find fish there that usually get eaten by the ones in the ponds on the outskirts." truth be told there was more pollution in the center of the city and those fish were able to survive the murky waters better than their predators. "You should come with me, there's this one that has iridescent scales, it's kinda hard to catch. Maybe... you could put a picture of that in your book when I catch one. Maybe we can feed it to Cali."

From:

hajimetejanai

"Oh yeah! Y'know, I took that photo!" Prompto beamed, feeling his confidence rise knowing that the king of Lucis had liked one of his pictures. Granted, it had been a quick little snapshot on his cellphone, but it had turned out so nicely. Noct always photographed well, and Cali hadn't taken a bad picture in her life, so that helped. Still, he'd take the praise where he could find it, and there was little praise higher than Regis.

"That sounds so fun, I'd love to!"

Prompto wanted to reach across the table to hold Noct's hand, squeeze his fingers, let him know things were alright, but that was a bit much, and besides, the reach was a little far too. He settled for gently nudging Noct's foot, the toe of his formal shoes sliding up near his mate's ankle as he gave Noct a comforting, soft smile.

"Sounds pretty fancy, I'm sure Cali would love that," Prompto nodded, "she's a kitten of very discerning taste."

He sent Noct a wink, feeling emboldened by the wine and praise from Regis.

"You'll have to show me your favorite spots."

From:

starless_sky

"Well, I believe you did an excellent job capturing Noct in his natural habitat." Noctis knew he was a nice model, he tried to look cool anyway, it was needless but he didn't know that. One day he will look back at the poses he took and cringe. Or find it funny how silly he used to be. Cali was indeed a star waiting to be discovered. Noct had suggested they make an instagram profile just for her. If they could only post photos of her and not anything that would indicate where they lived or who they were...

"It's a date then." Regis smiled, with his eyes more than his mouth. He adored these kids, he knew this time was short, he had so little to offer them.

The shoe was enough, Noct's eyes did not widen, he did not look alarmed but he made eye contact with Prompto. He moved his foot out to run along Prompto's ankle too. Thanks, babe.

"Phft, very discerning taste. I'm pretty sure she ate the spider that was living behind the kitchen trash." which makes her a hero in Noct's eyes, a valiant warrior. Also she got tuna from him that evening. She'd earned it.

"You mean all of them?" he smiled softly. "Sure, I can take you one by one, you can take photos. I know one that's in the royal gardens, you're technically not supposed to fish in there but who's gonna stop us?" Regis sighed as their next course came. Stuffed lamb breast with ricotta, lemon, and oregano.

Noctis was starting to feel full-ish. Like to the point he couldn't dance if he kept going. He ate like a bird from each plate. He kept an eye on Prompto's wine, he'd tap his toe to Prompto's shoe if he accepted another glass.