Nyx Ulric (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
hardbargain) wrote2018-11-08 08:23 pm
hardbargain) wrote2018-11-08 08:23 pm
Have you SEEN the way that Iedolas struts around? Of course, there are peacocks in Eo- Oh wait...
kingkingcxiii
2018-11-14 03:30 am (UTC)(link)
It's very warm. I do believe that officially makes it more useful than a peacock's feathers.
[As he watches Nyx's 'expert' handling of the cloak, Regis can't help but chuckle, the sound softer than his earlier laughter, but no less amused.]
Congratulations. You just made yourself the enemy of every single on of my chamberlains. I can almost hear them screaming out in disgust at your idea of tender care.
[As if he hasn't done worse to that blasted cape some nights, but it's not like any of them are going to say something to him.]
No frills? You realize that likely would be seen as an act of treason against the Lucis Caelum line. We are quite fond of our dramatics.
[Yet, for all that purported love of dramatics, Regis falls suspiciously silent while Nyx's fingers move across his chest and shoulders. It would be easy to shake off the gentle touches, but he doesn't, finding himself more interested in wondering why each light touch leaves behind such a lasting warmth. The things that Nyx mentions are true. Regis is quite aware of how much he favors that side, of how the weight doesn't help. It's to the point that on some days he can't hide it even when in public. It's such a little thing, though, when one has to think of countries and prophecies. What does it matter when soon enough...
And there go his thoughts drifting far too far into the realm of his own mortality again. He's really on a roll tonight.]
Unfortunately, men of my age all tend to be more than a little lopsided.
[At first, Regis fully intends on leaving that statement as it is, but there is something about being the recipient of Nyx's look that makes him feel guilty, as if he's taking something that he has no right to take.]
You should save that smile to share with someone who deserves it.
[As he watches Nyx's 'expert' handling of the cloak, Regis can't help but chuckle, the sound softer than his earlier laughter, but no less amused.]
Congratulations. You just made yourself the enemy of every single on of my chamberlains. I can almost hear them screaming out in disgust at your idea of tender care.
[As if he hasn't done worse to that blasted cape some nights, but it's not like any of them are going to say something to him.]
No frills? You realize that likely would be seen as an act of treason against the Lucis Caelum line. We are quite fond of our dramatics.
[Yet, for all that purported love of dramatics, Regis falls suspiciously silent while Nyx's fingers move across his chest and shoulders. It would be easy to shake off the gentle touches, but he doesn't, finding himself more interested in wondering why each light touch leaves behind such a lasting warmth. The things that Nyx mentions are true. Regis is quite aware of how much he favors that side, of how the weight doesn't help. It's to the point that on some days he can't hide it even when in public. It's such a little thing, though, when one has to think of countries and prophecies. What does it matter when soon enough...
And there go his thoughts drifting far too far into the realm of his own mortality again. He's really on a roll tonight.]
Unfortunately, men of my age all tend to be more than a little lopsided.
[At first, Regis fully intends on leaving that statement as it is, but there is something about being the recipient of Nyx's look that makes him feel guilty, as if he's taking something that he has no right to take.]
You should save that smile to share with someone who deserves it.
Edited 2018-11-14 03:46 (UTC)
[Nyx doesn't give a shit if he pisses off some glorified maid by wrinkling his majesty's royal short cape. Fuck that shit. Especially when doing so gets another spark of that exhilarating humor shining in his gaze.
It fades far too quickly though, so much so that Nyx finds himself stepping even closer, pressing himself against the other man. He frowns, an argument in his expression, hovering on his lips as he insists that he's anything like just any old man. But his smile?
That makes him frown harder, worried. One hand lifts to stroke tentative fingers over the sweep of silver hair, the neat cut of his beard, letting his hand rest against his cheek. It's intimate, too much so, forward and demanding in a way he told himself not to be but he doesn't know how to restrain himself that much.]
None so deserving as you... sir.
[The first time he's tacked on the honorific and not meant it to be teasing in some way. He might be forward, but he respects Regis so much, he's not trying to be defiant, not now at least.]
It fades far too quickly though, so much so that Nyx finds himself stepping even closer, pressing himself against the other man. He frowns, an argument in his expression, hovering on his lips as he insists that he's anything like just any old man. But his smile?
That makes him frown harder, worried. One hand lifts to stroke tentative fingers over the sweep of silver hair, the neat cut of his beard, letting his hand rest against his cheek. It's intimate, too much so, forward and demanding in a way he told himself not to be but he doesn't know how to restrain himself that much.]
None so deserving as you... sir.
[The first time he's tacked on the honorific and not meant it to be teasing in some way. He might be forward, but he respects Regis so much, he's not trying to be defiant, not now at least.]
Can't exactly shake you back to the present.
[So rambling was what he has to offer. Once Izunia initiates the contact Nyx does his best to press his leg a little more firmly against the other man? Yes, yes he's back to being a man again, not a fish.]
I've hunted them before.
[Clearly the important thing here. The thing to be concerned with. Eating fish. But first he has to stop feeling like he's going to throw up.]
You... okay?
[So rambling was what he has to offer. Once Izunia initiates the contact Nyx does his best to press his leg a little more firmly against the other man? Yes, yes he's back to being a man again, not a fish.]
I've hunted them before.
[Clearly the important thing here. The thing to be concerned with. Eating fish. But first he has to stop feeling like he's going to throw up.]
You... okay?
[There's something vicious and hungry in him, something that wants to keep going, just continue slamming his fist into the man's face until there's nothing left of it. But there's rules, there's reasons not to murder him, even if he's reaching for a blade before he realizes he's even doing it.
He turns abruptly on his heel, slings the knife across the hall and warps to it, crashing into the wall and slamming his fist into it. It's the only thing he can do to stop himself from trying to tear Ardyn limb from limb.]
Maybe you didn't do it directly but you pulled all the strings. You're lying to yourself if you say it's anything less than entirely your fault.
[And then he's wrench the blade out of the wall and throwing it down the hall, warping away from Ardyn before he does something that will get him in even more trouble.]
He turns abruptly on his heel, slings the knife across the hall and warps to it, crashing into the wall and slamming his fist into it. It's the only thing he can do to stop himself from trying to tear Ardyn limb from limb.]
Maybe you didn't do it directly but you pulled all the strings. You're lying to yourself if you say it's anything less than entirely your fault.
[And then he's wrench the blade out of the wall and throwing it down the hall, warping away from Ardyn before he does something that will get him in even more trouble.]
I'll be alright. I just don't handle healing magic very well, these days.
[In, out, until he can be steady on his own. Yeah, not very well is one way to put it.]
It's a very long story, and all of it tied together. You have no idea how many problems the line of kings actually has, trust me. And you've as much right to know as any at this point, it's just a story that will take time to tell.
[With that in mind, Izunia pulls himself up and braces to set the leg. First, though, a phone from his armiger to text the medical staff - better to let them know now that they're about to have a troublesome patient.]
Ready for that leg?
[In, out, until he can be steady on his own. Yeah, not very well is one way to put it.]
It's a very long story, and all of it tied together. You have no idea how many problems the line of kings actually has, trust me. And you've as much right to know as any at this point, it's just a story that will take time to tell.
[With that in mind, Izunia pulls himself up and braces to set the leg. First, though, a phone from his armiger to text the medical staff - better to let them know now that they're about to have a troublesome patient.]
Ready for that leg?
Everything made here is showy.
[And he draws one of his blades, tilting it this way and that, letting the light catch on the elegant etchings down the side of the blade. Ornate and decorative and so different from his own Galahdian blade.]
But I do think they're slower. Just means you've gotta compensate for that. Your choice.
[And he draws one of his blades, tilting it this way and that, letting the light catch on the elegant etchings down the side of the blade. Ornate and decorative and so different from his own Galahdian blade.]
But I do think they're slower. Just means you've gotta compensate for that. Your choice.
...Perhaps so, but do take care not to lay a disproportionate amount of blame on the wrong person.
[He half muttered that as Nyx retreated, spitting out blood from a split lip and wiping at his mouth with the back of his hand.]
I take responsibility for what I've done and admit my hand in things where it mattered. But Niflheim had far more malice and moving parts to it than one monster eventually taking the reins.
[He half muttered that as Nyx retreated, spitting out blood from a split lip and wiping at his mouth with the back of his hand.]
I take responsibility for what I've done and admit my hand in things where it mattered. But Niflheim had far more malice and moving parts to it than one monster eventually taking the reins.
[The tone of that honorific is probably the only thing that keeps Regis from stepping away and ending this right now for both their sakes. It wouldn't be hard. If he ordered Nyx home, as rebellious as the man is, he would go, but what kind of repayment would that be for the honesty he's just been shown, misdirected as it may be?
For far too short a moment, Regis lets himself be weak. His eyes close and he allows himself to feel the comforting weight of the hand against his cheek. He then reaches up and gently pulls that hand away with his free one, locking away the spark of loneliness that suddenly pains his heart.]
Don't do this to yourself, Nyx. Life is too short and this world has already taken too much from you.
[For just a instant he brushes the man's rough fingers against his lips and then lets his hand drop.]
Seek your happiness with one who doesn't linger in life like a ghost.
For far too short a moment, Regis lets himself be weak. His eyes close and he allows himself to feel the comforting weight of the hand against his cheek. He then reaches up and gently pulls that hand away with his free one, locking away the spark of loneliness that suddenly pains his heart.]
Don't do this to yourself, Nyx. Life is too short and this world has already taken too much from you.
[For just a instant he brushes the man's rough fingers against his lips and then lets his hand drop.]
Seek your happiness with one who doesn't linger in life like a ghost.
[There's a moment there, still and quiet, his hand hovering uncertainly between them, fingertips tingling and warm from that soft brush of lips. It's enough to make his heart race and ache all at once.
Too much, too many ghosts that already haunt his days, and even now if he closes his eyes he can hear Selena's screams.
And for as gentle and respectful as he's tried to be, even if his interest has been anything but subtle, the next moment there's something harsh and fierce in his face. Both hands come up to fist into the heavy fabric of his suit and Nyx pushes Regis back, one step then another, a third and there's a chair directly behind him and Nyx is bearing down on him, pushing him down into the chair, bending over him, eyes gone silver with determination.]
I don't think so... sir.
[He shakes his head, eyes bright with emotion, dismissing the older man's request.]
King or no you can command actions and you can command minds but hearts are beyond your control, beyond anyone's control.
[And finally Nyx presses in closer. For all the harshness in his voice the kiss is gentle, soothing and sweet, easing the sting of his words and the fear that swells in his chest at the implications in what Regis said.]
Command it, order me to leave and as your Glaive I will. But that will not change how I feel or how it will hurt. You spare me nothing and inflict nothing but pain on yourself. Heroes don't get to choose who they let mourn them.
Too much, too many ghosts that already haunt his days, and even now if he closes his eyes he can hear Selena's screams.
And for as gentle and respectful as he's tried to be, even if his interest has been anything but subtle, the next moment there's something harsh and fierce in his face. Both hands come up to fist into the heavy fabric of his suit and Nyx pushes Regis back, one step then another, a third and there's a chair directly behind him and Nyx is bearing down on him, pushing him down into the chair, bending over him, eyes gone silver with determination.]
I don't think so... sir.
[He shakes his head, eyes bright with emotion, dismissing the older man's request.]
King or no you can command actions and you can command minds but hearts are beyond your control, beyond anyone's control.
[And finally Nyx presses in closer. For all the harshness in his voice the kiss is gentle, soothing and sweet, easing the sting of his words and the fear that swells in his chest at the implications in what Regis said.]
Command it, order me to leave and as your Glaive I will. But that will not change how I feel or how it will hurt. You spare me nothing and inflict nothing but pain on yourself. Heroes don't get to choose who they let mourn them.
[The moment that Nyx's expression shifts toward aggression, magic once more crackles in the air, chilling it around them. If Regis is going to strike out to defend himself, though, the blow never comes and an instant later, he's forced down into the chair, fighting back a wince of pain even as his cane clatters loudly to the floor near their feet.
Hands freed, he raises them both to take hold of Nyx's where they are still tangled in his clothing. Anger flashes in his eyes as they lock with his Glaive's.]
You Astral-damned fool! Do you have any idea what would happen to you if someone saw that? There is only so much I can protect you from!
[A chill still hangs in the air, but there is no tension as if attack may follow. Instead, there is only the gentle rolling of fog that will make it hard for anyone within the Citadel to make out what is happening on the balcony.
Regis is unsettled enough that the order for Nyx to go is nearly on his tongue and then the kiss swallows it, gentleness causing anger to drain away as if it'd never been there. As Nyx pulls back, Regis releases the hold he has on one of the Glaive's hands so he can draw him forward again, resting their foreheads together. When he speaks, his voice sounds tired, but also as open and vulnerable as it has the whole night.]
What am I going to do with you? It's not a hero you speak with, merely a man who has been bound by fate his whole life.
Hands freed, he raises them both to take hold of Nyx's where they are still tangled in his clothing. Anger flashes in his eyes as they lock with his Glaive's.]
You Astral-damned fool! Do you have any idea what would happen to you if someone saw that? There is only so much I can protect you from!
[A chill still hangs in the air, but there is no tension as if attack may follow. Instead, there is only the gentle rolling of fog that will make it hard for anyone within the Citadel to make out what is happening on the balcony.
Regis is unsettled enough that the order for Nyx to go is nearly on his tongue and then the kiss swallows it, gentleness causing anger to drain away as if it'd never been there. As Nyx pulls back, Regis releases the hold he has on one of the Glaive's hands so he can draw him forward again, resting their foreheads together. When he speaks, his voice sounds tired, but also as open and vulnerable as it has the whole night.]
What am I going to do with you? It's not a hero you speak with, merely a man who has been bound by fate his whole life.
[For a long moment Nyx stays right where he is, letting Regis'hand rest on the back of his neck, holding him close, savoring the warmth of the older man.
Gradually, as his heart finally slows back to a normal rhythm, the anger in Regis' voice and the surge of magic on the air having put him on edge, he shifts his weight.]
They needn't think anything foul is afoot.
[There's a flicker of that cocky smirk once more and then, slowly, Nyx lowers himself to his knees in front of Regis, settling himself between his legs. His hands unclench from the King's clothing, smoothing out the way it's bunched over his chest. It wouldn't look that strange from afar. Scandalous, certainly, but not dangerous. The dashing King with some young eager lover.
And oh how easy it would be to push, now he's in this position. To ask for more than Regis was ready to give.]
Hero is a title that can only be earned by the dead. It's why the others use it with me... because I should be dead, the stunts I've pulled, the things I do. I should be dead.
I'm no more hero than you are. That's the point isn't it? Just two men... this one hoping to make the days he has left a little brighter if only he might ease the burdens carried by one he cares for.
[And Nyx pushes up on his knees, stretches up to brush another light, hopeful kiss to Regis' lips. As he does so one hand slides up over the knee of his King's bad leg, seeking out strained bands of tendons, rolling the heel of his hand slowly over the weakened muscle. A silent apology for the rough handling.]
Gradually, as his heart finally slows back to a normal rhythm, the anger in Regis' voice and the surge of magic on the air having put him on edge, he shifts his weight.]
They needn't think anything foul is afoot.
[There's a flicker of that cocky smirk once more and then, slowly, Nyx lowers himself to his knees in front of Regis, settling himself between his legs. His hands unclench from the King's clothing, smoothing out the way it's bunched over his chest. It wouldn't look that strange from afar. Scandalous, certainly, but not dangerous. The dashing King with some young eager lover.
And oh how easy it would be to push, now he's in this position. To ask for more than Regis was ready to give.]
Hero is a title that can only be earned by the dead. It's why the others use it with me... because I should be dead, the stunts I've pulled, the things I do. I should be dead.
I'm no more hero than you are. That's the point isn't it? Just two men... this one hoping to make the days he has left a little brighter if only he might ease the burdens carried by one he cares for.
[And Nyx pushes up on his knees, stretches up to brush another light, hopeful kiss to Regis' lips. As he does so one hand slides up over the knee of his King's bad leg, seeking out strained bands of tendons, rolling the heel of his hand slowly over the weakened muscle. A silent apology for the rough handling.]
'Tis a comfort to know that His Majesty and His Highness are so protected by many different weapons and many different skills. [He'll opt for a compliment instead. At the end of the day, it doesn't matter what's slower or faster so long as it can be used competently to dispatch anything that might be in the way.]
And you only find it all showy because this is the capital, the seat of the throne. You won't find much around the Citadel at the very least that isn't pretty and ornate.
And you only find it all showy because this is the capital, the seat of the throne. You won't find much around the Citadel at the very least that isn't pretty and ornate.
[The return of that familiar cockiness causes a ghost of a smile to cross Regis' face, but the smile comes no where near lifting the tiredness in his eyes.]
You know it's not that easy. Not with who I am nor with who you are. There are too many who would jump on the chance to have you removed from your position or worse.
[Not to mention he can immediately think of five councilmen would would use any attempt to intercede on Nyx's behalf to weaken Regis' own standing. Politicians show mercy for no one. King or knight. Lover or beloved.
It's the politics of the situation he understands. He's played the game his whole life. This? This he doesn't understand. It's nothing like the relationship he'd had with Aulea. Their love had been born of lifelong friendship, of familiarity, and time spent in each other's company. While it's true that Nyx has been part of the Glaive for a long time now, they have hardly had time to come to know each other. They pass more often than not in silent understanding. Power given; life entrusted.
In the wake of the second gentle kiss, Regis forces himself to stop trying to puzzle the mystery out on his own, and instead takes the path of least resistance--asking the man kneeling before him.]
Your heart could choose any it wished to love.
[He rests his hand gently on the one Nyx is using to message his knee, halting the motion.]
Why would it choose me when you more than most know the price the Crystal demands of me?
You know it's not that easy. Not with who I am nor with who you are. There are too many who would jump on the chance to have you removed from your position or worse.
[Not to mention he can immediately think of five councilmen would would use any attempt to intercede on Nyx's behalf to weaken Regis' own standing. Politicians show mercy for no one. King or knight. Lover or beloved.
It's the politics of the situation he understands. He's played the game his whole life. This? This he doesn't understand. It's nothing like the relationship he'd had with Aulea. Their love had been born of lifelong friendship, of familiarity, and time spent in each other's company. While it's true that Nyx has been part of the Glaive for a long time now, they have hardly had time to come to know each other. They pass more often than not in silent understanding. Power given; life entrusted.
In the wake of the second gentle kiss, Regis forces himself to stop trying to puzzle the mystery out on his own, and instead takes the path of least resistance--asking the man kneeling before him.]
Your heart could choose any it wished to love.
[He rests his hand gently on the one Nyx is using to message his knee, halting the motion.]
Why would it choose me when you more than most know the price the Crystal demands of me?
I'll let you know when I figure it out.
[A smirk, all bravado and sarcasm again. He's not entirely sure himself, doesn't know that he has any reason that will satisfy the man before him, certainly not reason enough to satisfy his own traitorous mind.
He's thought about it for years now and only recently begun to accept the fact that the pull there was something beyond his understanding. He could try to logic it out all he wanted but logic had nothing to do with it.]
You think I know the whims of my heart any more than you? I know this is where I want to be. I know I want to know you, not my king but the man who gives so selflessly, who sacrifices so much and bears the weight of his duties so gracefully.
[He shrugs a little, looking almost embarrassed for a moment. It's sappy and he doesn't have a good reason but that doesn't make him yearn any less. His hand lifts, fingers tracing the fine lines of strain the crystal has marked on Regis' face and frowning slightly, leaning in and gently coaxing him to turn his head so he can brush a kiss against those lines.]
I want to see that glimmer of mischief in your eyes more. And I kinda wanna be the one to put it there.
[A smirk, all bravado and sarcasm again. He's not entirely sure himself, doesn't know that he has any reason that will satisfy the man before him, certainly not reason enough to satisfy his own traitorous mind.
He's thought about it for years now and only recently begun to accept the fact that the pull there was something beyond his understanding. He could try to logic it out all he wanted but logic had nothing to do with it.]
You think I know the whims of my heart any more than you? I know this is where I want to be. I know I want to know you, not my king but the man who gives so selflessly, who sacrifices so much and bears the weight of his duties so gracefully.
[He shrugs a little, looking almost embarrassed for a moment. It's sappy and he doesn't have a good reason but that doesn't make him yearn any less. His hand lifts, fingers tracing the fine lines of strain the crystal has marked on Regis' face and frowning slightly, leaning in and gently coaxing him to turn his head so he can brush a kiss against those lines.]
I want to see that glimmer of mischief in your eyes more. And I kinda wanna be the one to put it there.
[There's something terribly sad about how hard it is for Regis to accept those gentle touches. Once it had been so easy for him to both give and receive affection. Then he'd lost Aulea and almost lost Noctis. Then Tenebrae had fallen and there was just no time for that kind of thing anymore. Even when Regis found time to reach out to Noctis, the distance between them had only grown. He'd given all he could, and more often than not what he didn't give was taken until...
For the third time this night, Regis lets his eyes fall closed in response to Nyx's touch. Once more he drags himself out of his own mind and forces himself to focus on something infinitely more comforting than the knowledge of the dark future that spreads out in front of them. This is dangerous. A fool's quest. Soon enough Nyx's stint on Wall guard will end and he will return to the front. The Glaive has cheated Death any number of times. His earlier statement was no empty bluff. Will the next time he dances with Death be the one that ends with Regis feeling the magical link between them snap? Where might he be when it happens? A council meeting? Negotiation with visiting dignitaries? Alone in his office doing paperwork?
A soft, vaguely shaky breath slips from his lips and Regis mentally curses himself for how easily he lets himself slip back into his thoughts. There once was a time where he could switch off his mind, but that switch broke long ago.
Still, despite the direction his thoughts run in, when he finally speaks again there's acceptance in his tone. He knows the dangers in this; he knows how unwise it is and he's decided to move forward regardless of the consequences.
Regis opens his eyes, turning them in Nyx's direction without moving his head so that he doesn't disrupt the Glaive's tender actions.]
This is not the path I envisioned you taking when we first met all those years ago.
For the third time this night, Regis lets his eyes fall closed in response to Nyx's touch. Once more he drags himself out of his own mind and forces himself to focus on something infinitely more comforting than the knowledge of the dark future that spreads out in front of them. This is dangerous. A fool's quest. Soon enough Nyx's stint on Wall guard will end and he will return to the front. The Glaive has cheated Death any number of times. His earlier statement was no empty bluff. Will the next time he dances with Death be the one that ends with Regis feeling the magical link between them snap? Where might he be when it happens? A council meeting? Negotiation with visiting dignitaries? Alone in his office doing paperwork?
A soft, vaguely shaky breath slips from his lips and Regis mentally curses himself for how easily he lets himself slip back into his thoughts. There once was a time where he could switch off his mind, but that switch broke long ago.
Still, despite the direction his thoughts run in, when he finally speaks again there's acceptance in his tone. He knows the dangers in this; he knows how unwise it is and he's decided to move forward regardless of the consequences.
Regis opens his eyes, turning them in Nyx's direction without moving his head so that he doesn't disrupt the Glaive's tender actions.]
This is not the path I envisioned you taking when we first met all those years ago.
[Nyx isn't sure how to take the long silence that follows. He's eager to press, to ask, to demand a response. He has to swallow down the nerves and the impatience and let himself really watch for the reaction he does get.
Eyes closed like he's savoring the warmth of the touch and that only urges Nyx to stroke his fingers along the silvered hair at Regis' temple. The way his face relaxes for a moment before his brows slowly knitting in worry again and his fingers splay out, thumb shifting up to smooth over those lines, trying to ease the tension there.]
Yeah, me neither.
[Not apologetic in any way.]
Sure as hell don't regret ending up here though.
[He almost leans in to steal another kiss but he hesitates, pale blue eyes searching green, looking for something in there that's more than resignation but is, in fact, wanting. So much of what has happened his whole life it seems has been decided for him, He doesn't want this to be something that is happening and he simply accepts it, he wants it to be something that Regis wants as well.]
Eyes closed like he's savoring the warmth of the touch and that only urges Nyx to stroke his fingers along the silvered hair at Regis' temple. The way his face relaxes for a moment before his brows slowly knitting in worry again and his fingers splay out, thumb shifting up to smooth over those lines, trying to ease the tension there.]
Yeah, me neither.
[Not apologetic in any way.]
Sure as hell don't regret ending up here though.
[He almost leans in to steal another kiss but he hesitates, pale blue eyes searching green, looking for something in there that's more than resignation but is, in fact, wanting. So much of what has happened his whole life it seems has been decided for him, He doesn't want this to be something that is happening and he simply accepts it, he wants it to be something that Regis wants as well.]
[There is an instant of silence after that statement, but no more since Regis has already made his decision, and he's never gone back on a decision once it's been made. The smile that crosses his face is tired--the soul-deep exhaustion he carries is not something that can be easily fixed if it can be fixed at all--but it is real, and matched with the appearance of that mischievous twinkle in his eyes--the one that Nyx has been looking for all night--it's clear this is no case of passive acceptance. There is a lot about his life and about the life Noctis will face that Regis has had to accept, but this is not something he will be adding to that list of things.]
I would certainly hope not. You're not going to find a better partner in crime than me, I'll have you know.
[Regis turns more fully toward Nyx, raising his hand as if he has every intention of resting it against the Glaive's cheek, but he stops just short of it when he feels that same stabbing guilt from before. The guilt that says he shouldn't be the one accepting or giving Nyx this kind of affection. The man deserves someone closer to his own age; someone who can put him first in everything; someone who can give him a family instead of having to send him off into battle time and time again.
But Nyx has made his heart's choice clear even if both of them lack understanding as to why the choice has been made, and it's that knowledge that lets Regis finally finish the action, brushing his fingertips over warm skin before letting his hand drop to rest on Nyx's shoulder.]
You'll have to forgive me. I'm terribly out of practice when it comes to this kind of thing.
[Somehow, that seems like a massive understatement when it hits Regis' ears. He hasn't even been able to keep his relationship with his own son strong. How will he keep something as complicated as this relationship is bound to be strong?
Then again, Nyx has knowledge of a great many of the things Regis is still doing his best to shield Noctis from. Not everything, but perhaps that knowledge will make the difference.]
I would certainly hope not. You're not going to find a better partner in crime than me, I'll have you know.
[Regis turns more fully toward Nyx, raising his hand as if he has every intention of resting it against the Glaive's cheek, but he stops just short of it when he feels that same stabbing guilt from before. The guilt that says he shouldn't be the one accepting or giving Nyx this kind of affection. The man deserves someone closer to his own age; someone who can put him first in everything; someone who can give him a family instead of having to send him off into battle time and time again.
But Nyx has made his heart's choice clear even if both of them lack understanding as to why the choice has been made, and it's that knowledge that lets Regis finally finish the action, brushing his fingertips over warm skin before letting his hand drop to rest on Nyx's shoulder.]
You'll have to forgive me. I'm terribly out of practice when it comes to this kind of thing.
[Somehow, that seems like a massive understatement when it hits Regis' ears. He hasn't even been able to keep his relationship with his own son strong. How will he keep something as complicated as this relationship is bound to be strong?
Then again, Nyx has knowledge of a great many of the things Regis is still doing his best to shield Noctis from. Not everything, but perhaps that knowledge will make the difference.]
[The way he hesitates before finishing that touch makes Nyx's breath catch in his chest. He wants to tip his head, press his face into that near touch. But he also doesn't want to push too much, doesn't want to demand too much.
So he holds his breath, he waits, and he sighs heavily when Regis finally lets his fingers touch his cheek. His lips quirk up in a softer version of that cocky grin, his head tipping to brush his lips lightly over Regis' wrist as his hand falls to his shoulder.]
Yeah? I'm sure you were a hellion, huh? Don't worry. I'll help you practice.
[And the simple action of reaching out to touch in return has Nyx pressing himself tight against the seat of the chair, one hand boldly reaching up to sink into silvered hair, crushing his lips to Regis'. There's such a swell of relief, like a weight's been lifted off his shoulders. Something he's carried for so long.
He kisses him hard, demanding and insistent. Unlike Regis Nyx has no idea how this will play out but, like most things in his life, he's willing to dive in head first. What comes will come and he will meet it head on.
At least this promises to be much more fun than most of his hare brained ideas.]
So he holds his breath, he waits, and he sighs heavily when Regis finally lets his fingers touch his cheek. His lips quirk up in a softer version of that cocky grin, his head tipping to brush his lips lightly over Regis' wrist as his hand falls to his shoulder.]
Yeah? I'm sure you were a hellion, huh? Don't worry. I'll help you practice.
[And the simple action of reaching out to touch in return has Nyx pressing himself tight against the seat of the chair, one hand boldly reaching up to sink into silvered hair, crushing his lips to Regis'. There's such a swell of relief, like a weight's been lifted off his shoulders. Something he's carried for so long.
He kisses him hard, demanding and insistent. Unlike Regis Nyx has no idea how this will play out but, like most things in his life, he's willing to dive in head first. What comes will come and he will meet it head on.
At least this promises to be much more fun than most of his hare brained ideas.]
Of course. Where do you think my so-
[Regis' words are interrupted as a pair of lips crash into his--hot, passionate, insistent. Gone is the gentleness from before, burned away in an instant of pure need. When magic thickens the air this time, it's not in threat but in reaction to the rise of emotion in Regis' chest. It's been some time since he's felt such emotion so strongly and it's overwhelming at first, enough that the hand he has Nyx's shoulder, slides down across the Glaive's back and then up to the other shoulder where his fingers dig in so he can use the other man's steady form as an anchor. When he pulls back from the kiss a moment later, it's with a breathless chuckle that has nothing to do with the foolish words he breathes out.]
You're going to have to let me breathe, pup. My lungs are about 20 years older than yours.
[Before Nyx can reply, though, Regis leans in to return the favor, claiming the Glaive's lips with his own. For all his concerns of being out of practice, the kiss is every bit as confident and insistent as the one before, though when Regis pulls back this time, it is only by the barest amount, each whispered word causing his lips to brush against Nyx's.]
You only need to remain on your knees if that's really where you wish to be.
[Regis' words are interrupted as a pair of lips crash into his--hot, passionate, insistent. Gone is the gentleness from before, burned away in an instant of pure need. When magic thickens the air this time, it's not in threat but in reaction to the rise of emotion in Regis' chest. It's been some time since he's felt such emotion so strongly and it's overwhelming at first, enough that the hand he has Nyx's shoulder, slides down across the Glaive's back and then up to the other shoulder where his fingers dig in so he can use the other man's steady form as an anchor. When he pulls back from the kiss a moment later, it's with a breathless chuckle that has nothing to do with the foolish words he breathes out.]
You're going to have to let me breathe, pup. My lungs are about 20 years older than yours.
[Before Nyx can reply, though, Regis leans in to return the favor, claiming the Glaive's lips with his own. For all his concerns of being out of practice, the kiss is every bit as confident and insistent as the one before, though when Regis pulls back this time, it is only by the barest amount, each whispered word causing his lips to brush against Nyx's.]
You only need to remain on your knees if that's really where you wish to be.
Oh I'm sure there's a helluva tale there. But I think that's a story I need a beer for.
[As nauseous as he is from pain and then powering through half a dozen bottles of curatives he'd still give anything for a beer right about now. Or something harder. Definitely an occasion for breaking out the good shit.]
Not really any being ready for that sort of thing.
[He shrugs but then reaches back, snags one of the rich blue tails of his sash and rolls it, twisting it up tight and then shoving the thick rope of fabric into his mouth, between his teeth like a bit. He bites down a little, tests it, then nods to Izunia.
Ready as he'll ever be.]
[As nauseous as he is from pain and then powering through half a dozen bottles of curatives he'd still give anything for a beer right about now. Or something harder. Definitely an occasion for breaking out the good shit.]
Not really any being ready for that sort of thing.
[He shrugs but then reaches back, snags one of the rich blue tails of his sash and rolls it, twisting it up tight and then shoving the thick rope of fabric into his mouth, between his teeth like a bit. He bites down a little, tests it, then nods to Izunia.
Ready as he'll ever be.]
Always the diplomat.
[And this is the point of contention here. Ignis never turns off. He's always on duty, always respectable, always so painfully polite. It's the kind of thing that marks Nyx and his fellows so strongly as other.
It's a cultural difference. When they're off duty they're simple men with simple tastes. They fight and flirt and fool around. It might not be dignified but it's human and it unsettles most of them how proper these damn Lucians are all the time.]
I'll give you that, at least. There's an awful lot around here's that's pretty.
[He smirks as he says it, pale gaze flicking from the dagger in Ignis' hand up to his face, not to catch his eye but to appraise the cut of his jaw, the swell of his lips, and then his gaze drifts slowly back down.
It's like baiting a coeurl, he just can't help fucking with the kid sometimes.]
[And this is the point of contention here. Ignis never turns off. He's always on duty, always respectable, always so painfully polite. It's the kind of thing that marks Nyx and his fellows so strongly as other.
It's a cultural difference. When they're off duty they're simple men with simple tastes. They fight and flirt and fool around. It might not be dignified but it's human and it unsettles most of them how proper these damn Lucians are all the time.]
I'll give you that, at least. There's an awful lot around here's that's pretty.
[He smirks as he says it, pale gaze flicking from the dagger in Ignis' hand up to his face, not to catch his eye but to appraise the cut of his jaw, the swell of his lips, and then his gaze drifts slowly back down.
It's like baiting a coeurl, he just can't help fucking with the kid sometimes.]
Do you one better and give you a brandy once we're at the medbay. Or a whiskey. Or hot pepper vodka.
[He's carrying, that's what he's saying here. You have Choices.
Nyx gets a nod in return and Izunia stretches his wrists a bit before he reaches up, forcing the bone back into its proper position - a job a little harder than it has to be with all the curatives already at work, but it's what has to be done and Izunia does it as efficiently as he can, all business. And then a second realignment, when the first isn't quite right, and then he uses his own arm as a brace while cracking the bottle of a curative right over the break with the other.
It's not until that that he flinches.]
Alright. That should at least bear weight until you're properly in medical, but if you think I'm letting you walk there on your own you're out of your godsdamn mind.
[He's carrying, that's what he's saying here. You have Choices.
Nyx gets a nod in return and Izunia stretches his wrists a bit before he reaches up, forcing the bone back into its proper position - a job a little harder than it has to be with all the curatives already at work, but it's what has to be done and Izunia does it as efficiently as he can, all business. And then a second realignment, when the first isn't quite right, and then he uses his own arm as a brace while cracking the bottle of a curative right over the break with the other.
It's not until that that he flinches.]
Alright. That should at least bear weight until you're properly in medical, but if you think I'm letting you walk there on your own you're out of your godsdamn mind.
[Nyx snorts, a harsh stifled laugh and even that gets cut off as his King claims his mouth again. The softest of groans, barely more than an exhale, but this is precisely what he wanted. It's so satisfying to have the older man pressing into him as well, taking as much as Nyx is.
Between that and the prickle of magic on the air there's part of Nyx that wants to push up against him, crawl into his lap, over him, devour him right here on the balcony. Heat sings through his blood, fingers flexing against Regis' leg, forcibly stilling himself from pushing too hard, too fast.
And then Regis draws back, speaks against his lips and Nyx has to grit his teeth so he doesn't snap at him, latch onto his lip with teeth and do something that would be far too noticeable come morning.]
Oh? This bothering your back already, old man?
[It'd be a more convincing challenge if he weren't already so breathless, if the hand on Regis' thigh weren't already going back to kneading and this time creeping a little higher. But if Regis is going to keep playing up the age difference then Nyx is damn well going to give him shit for it.
And maybe, just maybe, there's something arousing about that too. Shit, he's got it bad.]
Between that and the prickle of magic on the air there's part of Nyx that wants to push up against him, crawl into his lap, over him, devour him right here on the balcony. Heat sings through his blood, fingers flexing against Regis' leg, forcibly stilling himself from pushing too hard, too fast.
And then Regis draws back, speaks against his lips and Nyx has to grit his teeth so he doesn't snap at him, latch onto his lip with teeth and do something that would be far too noticeable come morning.]
Oh? This bothering your back already, old man?
[It'd be a more convincing challenge if he weren't already so breathless, if the hand on Regis' thigh weren't already going back to kneading and this time creeping a little higher. But if Regis is going to keep playing up the age difference then Nyx is damn well going to give him shit for it.
And maybe, just maybe, there's something arousing about that too. Shit, he's got it bad.]
[Watching it doesn't make it better, he knows that but he also can't look away. There's no real preparing for it, no matter how much he tries there's no stopping yourself from reacting to that kind of damage once the adrenaline of near death has worn off and that gave out on him hours ago.
The first adjustment comes and he bites down hard on the gag he's made himself, snarling and wheezing out a breath that's not really a sound but has an edge of a high pitched wheeze to it. The fact that he's in a lawn chair of all things completely slips his mind and he slams his fist down onto the arm of the chair. He doesn't scream, hell he doesn't even tear up, he just bears down on the gag and pants, trying to bring his breathing back under control.
With how fucked his leg is he expects it to take more than two, honestly, so when the second burst of pain subsides and Izunia pops another bottle over his knee Nyx slumps back against the chair, counting under his breath, forcing himself to control his breathing before he does something ridiculous like pass out or start crying.
And if the chair is listing to one side now that the arm's bent in half well... can he really be blamed for that?]
The first adjustment comes and he bites down hard on the gag he's made himself, snarling and wheezing out a breath that's not really a sound but has an edge of a high pitched wheeze to it. The fact that he's in a lawn chair of all things completely slips his mind and he slams his fist down onto the arm of the chair. He doesn't scream, hell he doesn't even tear up, he just bears down on the gag and pants, trying to bring his breathing back under control.
With how fucked his leg is he expects it to take more than two, honestly, so when the second burst of pain subsides and Izunia pops another bottle over his knee Nyx slumps back against the chair, counting under his breath, forcing himself to control his breathing before he does something ridiculous like pass out or start crying.
And if the chair is listing to one side now that the arm's bent in half well... can he really be blamed for that?]
[The first response Nyx's gets is the scolding click of tongue behind teeth, but Regis quickly follows that with a laugh.]
What a cheeky thing you are once you've gotten what you want.
[Like he didn't already know that going into this.]
See if I worry about the state of your knees again.
[The threat is an empty one, betrayed thoroughly by the fondness in Regis' eyes and the gentleness of the fingers that comes to rest against Nyx's cheek.]
It pains me that you have to hold back for my sake, though I cannot thank you enough for doing it.
[Regis' free hand finds the one that is so bravely creeping up his leg and brings it to his lips, so he can press a kiss to it.]
I will make it worth your wait. Come. Lets move this to my quarters so we both can relax and worry not about who might come across us.
What a cheeky thing you are once you've gotten what you want.
[Like he didn't already know that going into this.]
See if I worry about the state of your knees again.
[The threat is an empty one, betrayed thoroughly by the fondness in Regis' eyes and the gentleness of the fingers that comes to rest against Nyx's cheek.]
It pains me that you have to hold back for my sake, though I cannot thank you enough for doing it.
[Regis' free hand finds the one that is so bravely creeping up his leg and brings it to his lips, so he can press a kiss to it.]
I will make it worth your wait. Come. Lets move this to my quarters so we both can relax and worry not about who might come across us.
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