lunafreya nox fleuret. ☽ (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
devotional) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
hadriel_logs2017-01-18 10:08 pm
devotional) wrote in hadriel_logs2017-01-18 10:08 pm
Entry tags:
she will marry me outside, by the willow trees (closed)
Who: Noctis Lucis Caelum + Lunafreya Nox Fleuret
What: Lunafreya wants to find gifts for the people who had helped her upon her arrival to Hadriel. Things were weird and chaotic before being pulled here. They only continue to be more weird.
Where: All over the greenest parts of Hadriel!
When: Slightly after the doubles event, when majority of the chaos has begun to die down.
Warnings: Likely SPOILERS for the second half of Final Fantasy XV. Outside of that: diabetes from fluff. Also the beginning of semi-sloppy makeouts. Gross.
[ Walking has never been as much of an ordeal for Lunafreya as it has been now, and while she's long since recovered the confidence of her stride, she sometimes feels as if her legs will give way beneath her weight. She'd been off her feet for several days in the wake of recovering from her injuries, and it's taken quite a bit of assistance from Noctis for her to get back to this point. Luna had made her intentions for the day clear the instant she had seen that he was awake: now that she was capable of moving around again, she fully intended to give back to those who had shown her kindness.
While she likely doesn't know where any of the people she'd met live, she's taken it upon herself to make something for each and every one of them. This something requires a copious amount of flowers, and while she knows that Hadriel isn't likely to have an abundance of sylleblossoms, she figures that any other sort of flower will do. Luna also intends on imbuing her creations with a small amount of her astral energy, lending the gifts a practical use.
When she'd enlisted Noctis for his aid, it was in part because she sincerely needed it... but mostly because she knew that he wouldn't let her leave the apartment without him by her side. And who could blame him? Were their roles reversed, she'd likely have reacted in the same way. Their last meaningful conversation had been a heavy, almost awkward one; neither of them acknowledged the way it ended, and it was almost as if its conclusion had never happened at all. Though they practically (technically, literally) shared a bed, Lunafreya finds that she can't look Noctis in the eye for more than three seconds at a time. It's a very keen sort of torment, avoiding a loved one with such deliberateness... But Lunafreya finds that she excels at it, if only because she scarcely knows how to feel about everything.
She's dressed simply as she waits for Noctis at the bottom of the stairs leading out of their apartment: without her attendants, her hair is simply done up in a simple ponytail, her body clad in a simple white dress chosen for her by Regis. Its hem is short and flowy, grazing just above her knees and made of linen. In her hands is a small basket she had found in the back room of the apartment, ready and eager to be utilized for her purposes.
Luna shifts her weight as she looks out onto the road while she waits for her companion, wondering what she is to say. ]
What: Lunafreya wants to find gifts for the people who had helped her upon her arrival to Hadriel. Things were weird and chaotic before being pulled here. They only continue to be more weird.
Where: All over the greenest parts of Hadriel!
When: Slightly after the doubles event, when majority of the chaos has begun to die down.
Warnings: Likely SPOILERS for the second half of Final Fantasy XV. Outside of that: diabetes from fluff. Also the beginning of semi-sloppy makeouts. Gross.
[ Walking has never been as much of an ordeal for Lunafreya as it has been now, and while she's long since recovered the confidence of her stride, she sometimes feels as if her legs will give way beneath her weight. She'd been off her feet for several days in the wake of recovering from her injuries, and it's taken quite a bit of assistance from Noctis for her to get back to this point. Luna had made her intentions for the day clear the instant she had seen that he was awake: now that she was capable of moving around again, she fully intended to give back to those who had shown her kindness.
While she likely doesn't know where any of the people she'd met live, she's taken it upon herself to make something for each and every one of them. This something requires a copious amount of flowers, and while she knows that Hadriel isn't likely to have an abundance of sylleblossoms, she figures that any other sort of flower will do. Luna also intends on imbuing her creations with a small amount of her astral energy, lending the gifts a practical use.
When she'd enlisted Noctis for his aid, it was in part because she sincerely needed it... but mostly because she knew that he wouldn't let her leave the apartment without him by her side. And who could blame him? Were their roles reversed, she'd likely have reacted in the same way. Their last meaningful conversation had been a heavy, almost awkward one; neither of them acknowledged the way it ended, and it was almost as if its conclusion had never happened at all. Though they practically (technically, literally) shared a bed, Lunafreya finds that she can't look Noctis in the eye for more than three seconds at a time. It's a very keen sort of torment, avoiding a loved one with such deliberateness... But Lunafreya finds that she excels at it, if only because she scarcely knows how to feel about everything.
She's dressed simply as she waits for Noctis at the bottom of the stairs leading out of their apartment: without her attendants, her hair is simply done up in a simple ponytail, her body clad in a simple white dress chosen for her by Regis. Its hem is short and flowy, grazing just above her knees and made of linen. In her hands is a small basket she had found in the back room of the apartment, ready and eager to be utilized for her purposes.
Luna shifts her weight as she looks out onto the road while she waits for her companion, wondering what she is to say. ]
no subject
[ Despite that, it certainly hasn't stopped him from essentially hovering over her on a daily basis. He's done much the same for Regis, really. Both had been injured upon their arrival, and both had been dead prior to even being here. His damn-near unhealthy paranoia of losing them again has sort of fueled the way he functions as of late, so Lunafreya is pretty considerate to ensure inviting him to come along. Plus, it's likely a good idea that he actually get out. ]
[ What he wears is nothing special, sporting a pair of black jeans that are fashionably torn around the knees. His black shirt is the same he'd worn before his arrival, clad with small skulls along the top and a grey hoodie. The hood is pulled over his messy hair, which he's managed to brush for a change. While he hasn't gotten a full night's sleep just yet, he's gotten enough. He comes down the stairs shortly after Lunafreya, a delicate smile on his face. ]
Beat me to it.
[ Not that this is unusual. The guys were up well before he was every morning, far prepared to go before he was even awake. But he still makes a brief little remark. ]
[ Noctis finds it extremely kind of Luna to make gifts for those who have helped her, and he fully supported the suggestion when it came up. While he's most comfortable keeping an eye on her, he's more than happy to help her with this. His brows raise at the basket, not entirely sure what it's for. All he knew was that she sought to make gifts for everyone, but he wasn't sure what the gift would be. The prince rubs his nose, sniffling as he still tries to completely wake up, and he casually gestures to the basket. ]
What's that for?
[ His hands tuck into the pockets of his hoodie. He's genuinely curious, happy to get whatever she needs. ]
no subject
Her own feelings, as she'd told him before, are clear to her. And she's willing to wait until he sorts his own out before revisiting that particular avenue again.
It's true that Noctis has been her shadow since he'd found her, never leaving her side for more than a few moments at a time. Luna knows that he's anxious, and she can't blame him; she feels much the same way. The both of them had spent an inordinate amount of time at Regis' side, also, leaving the old king to his own devices only when it came time for them to sleep.
Such hypervigilance likely wears on the three of them, though Lunafreya isn't about to raise any protests. When Noctis comes down the stairs, she turns, greeting him with a bright smile. Her legs have regained their strength in recent times, and while the fear of going tumbling is still ever-present, Lunafreya finds it easier to move around without assistance. She makes note of his appearance, finding that he looks as strapping as ever even in casual wear. Part of her wants to reach out to playfully flip the hood off of his head, but a larger part of her tells her to abstain from physical contact if she can help it. ]
A hollow victory, considering how long it takes you to get out of bed. The years have not changed you in that regard.
[ She smiles a dazzling smile even as she delivers that playful jab. When his eyes fall to the basket, she holds it up for his inspection. ]
Flowers. While they may be a bit foolish to wear in a place such as this, I had hoped to weave crowns for those who had helped me in my time of need. I remember teaching you how to make them during our stay in Tenebrae, but I wouldn't dare to assume that you'd have cause to remember my instructions now, years later.
[ She laughs. ] Truthfully, I'm not even sure if Hadriel has flowers... But I remember seeing trees in the distance. Perhaps I can find something else to suit my purposes.
[ Luna smooths her skirt over her legs after she finishes speaking, inclining her head slightly. ] Shall we, then?
no subject
[ At the same time, he can't help but feel as if he's doing Lunafreya a disservice by not bringing it up. There's that, and the fear of expressing that he had meant to do what he did. Why? He's not sure. ]
[ Still, that doesn't stop him from wanting to remain at her side. And he does just that, proud to ensure her safety and comfort. Spending as much time with Lunafreya as he can is necessary, not just for the fear of losing her again, but because he so desperately missed her in the twelve years that had passed the fall of Tenebrae. ]
[ And gods, how the years have done wonders to her despite the pain he knows that is there. Lunafreya's smile is warming, comforting, and the cameras that have covered her speeches and travels have hardly done her beauty justice. While Noctis' feelings are there and... Misunderstood on his behalf, he can't help but be drawn to the way she glows in anything she wears. Simple as her ponytail and dress is outside of the royalty that carries her, she's as radiant as the queen she may have been. Were things different. ]
[ Her smile is contagious, gaining one of his own. ]
Flower crowns, huh?
[ Noctis laughs. He recalls very vividly the times they had spent together weaving them together. The hours that would pass in the fields, and the way she had once crowned him her king with the first one she made. While his was a bit misshapen and sloppy, he had done the same for her. As his queen. ]
Can't say I remember how to make one. I'm a few years out of practice, but
[ Noctis shrugs. ]
I'm willing to learn again.
[ He opens the door to the building, gesturing for her to go first. ]
We shall.
no subject
Lunafreya knows nothing about how Noctis feels of it, but she takes his silence as an affirmation of her suspicions. She holds no ill will towards him for it and takes it as it is willingly, happy just to be by his side.
The time and distance that had separated them seems to melt away with every passing day, and for that, Lunafreya is grateful. She's grateful to have both Noctis and Regis in this strange and terrible land, and while she can't help but worry at the state of Eos in their absence, she savors their time together for what it is. They're the closest thing that she's had to a family since the fall of her kingdom, and to have them both here with her is more than she could have ever dreamed of.
It would be a lie if Luna were to say that she hadn't noticed how the years had touched both Regis and Noctis; the old king's hair is kissed with grey, the lines on his face having deepened with the passage of time. He is still of great regal bearing in spite of the way his knee causes him to limp, and his presence is as large and kind as ever. Noctis, on the other hand, has changed far more dramatically; long gone are the little boy limbs that Lunafreya had seen so often in her memory, leaving a wiry young man in their place. His face is handsome, sculpted by age and a life on the road, though his features remain naturally soft.
Though she does an expert job of hiding it, Lunafreya finds it so very hard not to stare. ]
Surely you don't find the idea to be foolish? [ She asks, half-laughing. It isn't much of a thank-you gift, but it certainly is something.
Luna remembers the time they had spent in the fields fondly, and Noctis had been a fairly quick study when it came to making things with his hands. It had taken him a few tries, as it had for her, but eventually the crowns he made were almost identical to the ones she'd created. ]
And I am willing to teach you. I swear not to take up too much of your time. [ She graces him with a small curtsy as he holds the door open for her, the expression irreverent and joking as she walks out into the street, making for the dotting of trees in the distance. She figures that that's as good a place to start as any. ]
Hopefully this errand will not consume most of the day... Though I figure that this would be a good time to familiarize ourselves with the area. There's still so much of Hadriel that we don't know. [ Luna walks at a leisurely pace, keeping both hands upon the arch of the basket. It's still morning... Or so she assumes; without a sun to look at, it's hard to pinpoint just what time it is, even if the mysterious way that the cave lights itself is almost identical to the way the sky does the same. ]
no subject
[ He chuckles at her question. ]
Foolish? Not at all.
[ His hands find themselves burying into the pockets of his hoodie, as if they'll move on their own. To take her arm or free hand... The need for it isn't so much strange to him as it is foreign. They held hands often as children, and it's as if that habit had lie dormant these twelve years. But it's far too awkward right now. ]
Luna, I've got nothing but time. Don't know if you've noticed, but we're not exactly on our planet anymore. Or our universe.
[ His nose wrinkles, looking up briefly. ]
I think.
[ As they approach the first gathering of trees, Noctis is diligent in looking around for flowers that might be useful. Long stems, he remembers. ]
You could never waste my time. I think it's a good idea we get some fresh air anyway.
[ He looks back to her. ]
Your legs aren't bothering you, are they?
no subject
As such, she's content to walk along, making light conversation. ]
I can only hope that my abilities have strengthened with my recovery. Cut off from the Astrals as I am, I know that my blessings will not be as strong as they are in Eos... But if I can offer those who helped me some succor, I would be gladdened. [ She keeps her eyes trained upon the road ahead, stepping lightly onto the grass that marks its border. She doesn't notice the way Noctis' hands remain restrained within his jacket pockets, though she does lament not being able to hold his hand in hers. ]
Still. Perhaps you and his majesty had had plans. I've heard tell of a lake here, and I highly doubt anyone would fault you for wanting to go fishing.
[ Lunafreya smiles at him before turning her attentions to the greenery before her. There are small flowers everywhere, much to her delight, and she quickly sets about examining them, searching for long, strong stems. Shorter ones could fulfill her purposes, also, as could twigs; she's willing to take anything that she can get at this point, really. ]
Not in the least. [ She murmurs, kneeling down and gathering a few promising-looking blooms. The flowers seem to be thriving in spite of the fact that sunlight seems notably absent in the cave, and Luna assumes that that's due in part to the strange, almost artificial lighting that permeates the city. It isn't long before her basket starts to fill, and she wanders over to Noctis, holding out her basket for him to deposit his finds. ]
Thank you again for helping me back onto my feet, literally and figuratively. [ Lunafreya offers with a smile, turning to look around his general area for more flowers. ] Just a bit more should do... Would you like to remain here while we weave these? Or do you think we should return home?
no subject
[ He deposits a large amount of flowers and twigs into the basket. ]
Nah, he and I will find time. I'm taking it one day at a time, so is he.
[ Noctis smiles for her, patting what he's placed in the basket and ensuring they don't mix up too much. ]
So should you.
[ At her next question, he looks around. The grass and trees have a pleasant smell, something connecting to that nostalgia that he can't help but cling to. Noctis finds himself easily falling into it, falling into this conversation with Lunafreya. And it becomes abundantly clear that he should... Probably try to loosen up a bit around her. He recalls a rather heavy conversation he'd had with Regis prior to the conversation with Luna. ]
Why don't we chill out here for a bit? It's nice out.
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I shall endeavor to do so, [ She laughs, good-natured. ] I feel that there's so much I need to make up for, what with arriving wounded and being put out of commission... Even when it comes to you and his majesty, I have twelve years of lost time to gain back.
[ Luna's expression turns wan. ] I am only happy that I have been given the opportunity to do so. [ It's then that she turns away from Noctis in search of a clear spot for them to sit. Nostalgia hits her in waves as she locates a prime spot near the foot of a large tree, and she sets the basket down before smoothing her skirt over the back of her thighs, holding down its hem as she follows suit. She props her back against the tree's trunk, taking a deep breath. ]
It... is rather nice here, isn't it? For a cave, it certainly has its pictureseque regions. [ She chuckles, closing her eyes. Lunafreya doesn't dwell on the awkward way things seem to be playing out for the both of them, instead opting to focus on the present. ] Would that time could stop... I could stay like this for years.
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[ Noctis grunts as he sits down next to Luna, pausing in his words for a moment. It's then that he pushes back his hood, letting it fall on his back. He sighs, pushing one knee towards him while the other leg rests out straight. ]
--As if it's your fault you were hurt. There's nothing to make up for.
[ He would make a joke, but doing so seems out of place. Noctis is far too distracted by the subject to even suggest one. Being happy to just have the opportunity to sit, to talk. To hear her voice again... Noctis feels the same as he had when he sat with Regis. Speaking of appreciating the time they have, what little there may be while within Hadriel's hold. It's both a blessing and a curse, but he's to move forward until he can't anymore. ]
[ Noctis still feels he can. ]
[ He looks around, taking a deep breath as he manages to lean against the very same tree. It's close to Lunafreya, but he finds himself in no place to question it. Not with that thought in mind. ]
Yeah.
Yeah it is.
[ With one lingering look to Luna, he finds himself getting lost. Without the ability to look away. What kind of man is he to cower away from things like feelings and words when the likelihood of her disappearing on him again is so very much there? He chews on his lip a second, finally looking down as he lets his hands slip back into his pockets. ]
I meant it, you know.
no subject
[ From here, Lunafreya can see the numerous buildings that dot the landscape, and the sound of a nearby river rushes nearby. She silently wonders just how far the cave that encloses Hadriel extends, as the city seems to go on endlessly as far as her eyes can see.
She scoots over to give Noctis room as he sits down next to her, glancing at him momentarily before looking away. She doesn't want to get caught in the trap that comes with looking in his general direction, lest she make their current situation more awkward; she busies herself with sorting the flowers in the basket before her, grouping them with colors she felt suited those who had come to her aid. For Frisk, she chooses yellows and pinks and golds. For Chara, deep reds and purples, shot through with tiny, bright blue buds.
The work keeps her busy even as he speaks, her hands moving when her mind cannot. For Anakin, she chooses deep, deep red-- she'd pick black, if she could find them. She decides to accent his crown with twigs. Luna is keenly aware of how close Noctis is to her, and she forces herself to focus on the task at hand.
It takes her a few moments to register what he says, and she blinks. She looks at him from over her shoulder, knowing exactly what he's talking about... if only because she knows him, and because it's been weighing on her mind since it happened. Her hands still only momentarily as she turns back to her work, an unnameable mixture of emotion beginning to well within her.
Reds and yellows for Faith, accented with orange. Lunafreya graces him with an answer. ]
... As did I. [ Her voice is quiet, even. Should she feel joy? This does nothing to change anything. ] But what does that even mean?
[ It comes out harsher than she'd intended, and she seeks to couch her words as best she can. ] I do not wish to cause you any more pain, Noctis. I had been content to not revisit that conversation if you had willed it.
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[ Noctis takes a gathering of different colored flowers and twigs, not entirely certain of whether or not a pattern or color choice is necessary. He just works to keep his hands busy, trying to dial back twelve years and recall how this is done. ]
[ His brows furrow at the question, feeling it sting a touch when he has no idea how to answer. There is relief in her explanation, but only a slight touch. ]
Luna, my feelings aren't... Exactly the most important ones here. Pain or not, ignoring it isn't fair either. For both of us, honestly.
Mostly for you.
[ Jeez, how exactly do you weave these things again? Over... Under... Tie it with the thinnest branch? With the flower? Yes, oh! Hey, there is is-- Nope. No, it just came loose. ]
It should be revisited. What good will pretending it never happened do?
no subject
It's because of this that she's content to remain silent in the wake of her own tumultuous feelings towards him. With the first batch of flowers sorted, she looks over to Noctis' attempts at weaving, managing a small smile. ]
Your feelings are of the most import to me, [ She says softly, gently turning and taking his hands. She positions his fingers where they need to be, creating the necessary loops and knots with her hands over his, slowly and deliberately walking him through the process without saying a word.
It's easier to touch him when she has a goal in mind, particularly when that goal is instruction. ]
And what good will discussing it do? [ Lunafreya asks, knowing full well what the answer to that question is. She's buying time in her own way; she's happy to remain by his side in silence, and this conversation is... well. It could make or break everything. She's long since sorted out the way she feels for him, and she isn't going to run from it. But some deep part of her, some fierce ache, seems to scream 'burdensome' every time she allows her mind to drift to thoughts of herself and Noctis, and it causes her to hesitate.
It takes some time to weave the first crown with her hands over his. But as she gently guides his fingers to fasten the crown closed, she allows her hands to linger for only a second, her gaze meeting his. ]
It happened. And what does that make of us now? Does it change anything?
[ Her voice is gentle, even. She keeps her eyes on his, searching. ] Why is it more unfair for me than it is for you if we ignore it? I am no shrinking violet, Noctis. I have a handle on my emotions, unless you are implying that I care more about what happened than you do.
no subject
I, ah--
[ He stammers, but he eventually finds a smile. Crooked as it is when he sighs. Noctis shakes his head. ]
You're asking the wrong guy.
[ He's the one who tried bringing it up, but that doesn't change how much of a failure he is with words in these types of situations. Honestly, he's never been in this situation before. He never even had the chance to talk about feelings or thoughts prior to their wedding, and that brings a slight frown to his features. ]
[ Noctis manages to watch as she guides his hands in a delicate weave, seeing the first parts of the crown coming to life. It's coming back to him slowly, but far be it for him to interrupt her. ]
[ When she stops, his attention almost immediately goes to her face. Eyes locking, where Noctis finds himself immediately lost in those pools of blue. ]
I... No. No, that's not what I meant.
[ He feels his face get hot, the rest of him starting to tingle and twitch despite the need to keep his hands where they are. Noctis gets her stance, but he can't find it in himself to properly argue and try to convince her otherwise. He starts to wonder if even arguing is necessary, especially when the question of what this makes them is just as lost on him as it is her. The prince swallows thickly as his eyes look to their interlocked hands rested above the branches and flowers that form a mold. ]
I don't... Want you to think that I was just in the heat of the moment. Or working on some sort of impulse.
no subject
She knows that words aren't his strong suit, and that's nothing to laugh at, either. Still, when he smiles, something inside of her shifts. The impending heaviness of this talk seems that much more bearable, so long as she can see him smile. ]
As far as I am concerned, you're the right one, [ Luna gently chides, curling her fingers around his. His hands are warm, much larger than hers, yet deft in their own right. She doesn't notice his frown as she focuses on moving their fingers in tandem, filling out the rest of the crown.
Noctis is close enough for her to feel his breath wash warmly over her face, but Lunafreya doesn't back down. Her face doesn't color like his does, and she gazes at him steadily, evenly. When he breaks their staring contest, she decides to be stubborn, leaning forward to catch his eyes with her own.
Maybe it's completely self-interested, but she doesn't want to stop looking at him. The rawness of the situation is more intimate than anything she's ever known, and while it's painful and terrifying, she's happy that it involves him. She's never been this close to anyone in her life, and while she's spent so much time sacrificing her sense of self for all of Eos, she decides that, just this once, she'll act on her own wants. ]
Even if it was in the heat of the moment... I doubt I would have minded. [ As she fastens the crown, she gently plucks it from his hands... only to place it upon his head. ] There. That one is yours.
[ Lunafreya smiles up at him in spite of the weight of her previous words, gently smoothing his hair out of his eyes. ] It's very fetching, I'll have you know. Alas, if only I had a mirror...
[ She watches him for a few moments before speaking again, sighing softly. ] 'Twas impulse that spurred you in the moment, though. Even if you meant it, you and I both know that you would not have done anything of the sort if you hadn't been acting on some sort of instinctual urge.
[ Luna doesn't mean it in a bad way; on the contrary, it's one of the things she's most fond of in regards to him. ]
... I do not regret it in the least, though. And I would gladly do it again, without question.
no subject
[ As the crown touches his head, he finds himself laughing with ease, soft as it may be. Nostalgia manages to cushion the impact of their conversation, bringing comfort to him even as it falls crooked on his head. He reaches up to adjust it as Lunafreya pushes the bangs from his eyes. ]
Mm.
[ He nods, eventually, to what she's saying. Lunafreya isn't wrong. Noctis worked on impulse, but he can't find guilt in that action. Not when he realizes that he meant every single second. When words fail him, actions serve him best. ]
Alright. Still have me figured out, and I don't see that changing anytime soon.
[ Noctis discovers that he deeply appreciates how well she knows him, comfortable in knowing that she doesn't judge him or feel any disappointment towards him. The closeness they have is golden, a treasure, and the discomfort he feels starts to ebb away with ease. ]
I don't either. Regret it, I mean.
[ There's a desire to move forward, but nerves sort of have him halted for the time being. He instead gestures to the crown, working to make sure that his bangs stay out of the way this time. ]
This my coronation, then? Thought we had it twelve years ago.
no subject
When Noctis laughs, Lunafreya finds herself melting. She can think of no sweeter noise, though she wouldn't dare to say that out loud. She assists in his adjusting the crown, though he may not need it; it's probably just an excuse for her hands to touch his again. ]
You can likely see right through me, in return, [ Luna responds easily, dropping her hands to her lap as Noctis models the flower crown for her. It sits easily atop his head, though it displaces some of his hair. Lunafreya decides she likes the way he looks with it on. It brings a certain sense of nostalgia to his person, and she feels almost as if she's twelve years old again, weaving crowns with an eight-year-old Noctis. ] I would not think that I am all too difficult to read.
[ The desire to close the distance between them is mutual, but Lunafreya holds back for his sake. With this talk underway, she feels as if their relationship is one step closer to being identified... though she isn't even sure if she wants to give their relationship a name. Giving it a name almost feels like making it more tangible, thus making the risk of losing it all the more real.
There's fear in the way she watches him, fear and want. Most important is stability, though, and Lunafreya isn't about to sacrifice that simply because of her own personal feelings on the matter.
At his question, she laughs again, soft and breathy. ]
I suppose it is. Perhaps we should make this one more official; we should call your father and have him preside over the ensuing festivities.
[ After a few moments, Lunafreya turns her attention to the bundles of flowers she had sorted, handing Noctis the one intended for Chara. She picks up the one she made for Frisk and sets to work, weaving. ] Alert me if you need any more assistance, by the way. Weaving crowns is a difficult task, and I would not want you to grow frustrated.
[ She does this partially because she wants to kiss him, desperately, and distracting herself is all she can do. ]
no subject
[ The smile takes some time to leave his features, showing no signs of fading anytime soon. Noctis holds off on speaking when their hands brush once more as she assists in adjusting his crown. For her sake, he keeps it there, even as her hands drop. ]
You give me too much credit.
[ Noctis is hardly as good a reader as Lunafreya, but enough to take the humorous remark. Perhaps he can see a little touch through her, fully aware of her martyrdom and habit of taking so much on her shoulders. But he won't allude to that, refusing to point it out and simply happy in just amusing one another and spending time together. The time they have is likely to be short, and Noctis finally achieves resolve in simply being in her presence. ]
[ He chuckles, however, at the running joke regarding the crown. ]
Oh yeah, I'm sure he'll be proud of me claiming my rightful place upon the throne of...
[ Noctis reaches behind him, patting the tree. ]
This spot. No subjects. Just rocks, dirt, and flowers.
[ Because, let's be real here. There's no kingdom anymore, not while he's here. Their royal standing is practically null in void where they sit right now. Is he upset about that? A little. Only insofar as what Eos is without in his absence. Until he knows the state of their home, he'll be uncomfortable about that. Still, he makes a joke for the sake of keeping things light. And Noctis returns to assisting Lunafreya with their craft project. ]
Nah, I'm an expert now.
[ To her offer of assistance. Noctis smirks a touch, finding himself far more comfortable at this point. He begins his next crown, fully aware that he's nowhere near being polished at this. But he tries. ]
[ As he falls, his eyes briefly shift towards her. With a deep, subtle breath, he scoots closer to Luna, allowing their shoulders to touch. The want to kiss her is just as strong as Luna's, but he is just as keen to distract himself while remaining close. ]
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His smile is infectious, and Luna feels lighter from just having seen it. ]
I beg to differ. You understand me enough to have brought this entire discussion to light without my having to say anything. [ She looks to his face again, her expression gentle and open. ] I only give you as much credit as I feel is due.
[ Lunafreya finds herself chuckling at his words, and she squares her shoulders, affecting the best royal posture that she can manage. She injects a lofty decorum into her tone as she picks up a few more small blossoms from the bundle in her hands, weaving them into the crown atop his head. ]
Then let it be done. It is with great pleasure, as your Oracle, that I, Lunafreya Nox Fleuret, dub thee, Noctis Lucis Caelum, king of this very spot. May the dirt, rocks, flowers, and trees all flourish beneath your glorious reign, and may they enjoy an everlasting peace beneath the protection of your hand.
[ Lunafreya knows that there is no kingdom without its king, and while she feels a bit of guilt at making light of their current situation, there's a certain catharsis in the way she plays with Noctis. She's ever reminded of their childhood, and the burdens of duty and devotion seem somewhere far away. Momentarily forgotten, but far from gone. ]
Oh, there was never any doubt there. Just know that I am here for you, should you need it.
[ It comes out heavier than she intends, but she quickly busies herself with weaving Frisk's crown. Using dried twigs as a base, Lunafreya begins to weave a delicate chain of small flowers into a loop. She's keenly aware of the deliberateness in Noctis' shift closer to her, and she does nothing to pull away. It almost feels as if their shared kiss had broken some unseen barrier, leaving physicality outside of the realm of things that are forbidden between the two of them. She presses the outside of her thigh against his, gently inclining her head so that her cheek rests against his shoulder.
She wants more, though she knows she's in no position to ask for it. Instead, she continues to weave, threading larger blossoms through the loops created by the small blooms she'd initially selected. Though she doesn't know much of Frisk, she tries to imagine something that would suit them, willing herself not to look up towards the man sitting next to her. ]
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[ At the point that he's applying the finishing touches, Lunafreya manages to initiate an impromptu coronation ceremony beneath the tree. He stops, looking and watching as she adds a few more flowers. The nostalgia of the moment isn't lost on him, continuing like a freight train with really no sign of stopping anytime soon. And he's fine with that, smiling when she so dubs him king of this tiny speck of land. Much like she had those twelve years ago. ]
[ Noctis sets his project down, clearing his throat and placing his hand over his heart. ]
I swear to rule with dignity and pride for my beloved servants. Which... Are basically ants and beetles. But beloved nonetheless.
[ He can't help but laugh a little more once the deed is done, recalling so fondly him doing the same exact thing at age 8. Noctis hasn't truly been this comfortable or happy in a long, long time. Even with his friends and attendants at his side, there was still an emptiness there prior to Lunafreya's passing that he couldn't quite fix. Honestly, it had started with the loss of his father and just managed to extend over time. ]
[ There's a sort of warmth when she rests closer, her cheek rested delicately there, and Noctis has no reason to regret or feel nervous to his choice of closing distance. He sighs, eyes closing for just a moment while he lets all of this soak in, not certain if this is permanent. If they'll have opportunities for peace here at all. ]
[ She smells nice. He notices that often, especially with how he's stayed rather close to her since her arrival. He feels her hair delicately brush along his cheek, soft to the touch. The desire for more is there, but his nerves stop him there, limiting him to just sitting this close. ]
[ Eventually, he works to break the silence. Noctis looks at his finished product before finally breaking their closeness for just a moment. ]
Done.
[ It's sloppy, not quite as neat and well-done as Lunafreya's creation, but stable. Noctis wears a gentle smile as he ceremoniously places the crown on Lunafreya's head, ensuring her hair doesn't get caught in the branches. ]
And I, King Noctis Lucis Caelum of... Tree...Stumpdom, do dub thee, Lunafreya Nox Fleuret of Tenebrae, Queen Consort.
[ Jokingly, he delicately bows as best as he can while seated. ]
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[ For all she knows, she could still be that twelve-year-old girl in Tenebrae, playing pretend with one of the only childhood friends that she'd ever known. The square of land they sit upon really isn't much to look at, but their sudden, mocking gestures seem to elevate it further than that. In many ways, it's like their own tiny kingdom, just like the fields of Tenebrae had been theirs all those years ago. ]
They are industrious folk. You could not ask for a finer retinue; even now, they toil away at digging tunnels for their lord king. And rolling dung, likely, but every job has its purpose.
[ Lunafreya supposes that she can consider herself lucky in that sense; when the tidemother's waters had claimed her, she couldn't feel much of anything. There was no real sense of loss, only resignation and bittersweet sadness as she bid farewell to Noctis. There is no greater honor for an Oracle to die in service to her king. At least, that was what she had been taught.
Lunafreya continues to labor at her crown as she rests her weight against him, noting how warm he feels even through layers of fabric. As much as she wants to argue that the gesture is purely platonic, she knows that her motives are slightly less than pure; to be near Noctis in such a way is something she's wanted for herself for years, and there's nothing duty-bound or honorable about the way she revels in his closeness.
When he pulls away, Lunafreya regains herself, sitting straight. She almost wants to clear her throat, but thinks better of it; soon, he's holding up the crown he had made for her inspection, prompting her expression to light up. ]
It's lovely, especially for a second attempt. [ She says. And she means it. When he moves to place it upon her head, she gently lowers it, allowing it to settle upon her crown with ease.
At his announcement, she's loath to admit, her breath catches. It's only then that her face colors a touch at his words, playful as they are, and she needs to catch herself. It's the same as when they had been children, yes, but her adult mind can't help but to assign a deeper meaning to the title he bestows upon her. ]
Surely you flatter me with such an honor, my liege, [ She manages playfully. ] But I swear on my name as your Oracle and Queen Consort that the beetles and ants will enjoy a new era of prosperity beneath our union. I will advocate for and elevate those who dwell in the deepest reaches of our land, and no insect shall be neglected and left wanting for more.
[ Lunafreya returns his bow as best as she can, hoping he doesn't notice the flush of her face. The crown in her hands lies all but forgotten as she lifts her head, laughing. ]
... We're both utterly ridiculous, you realize.
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So it shall be done. Long live the Queen.
[ He doesn't really know what he's saying, honestly. Once again, Luna is far better with words than himself. So he laughs at his own expense, keen in adjusting the crown upon her head before retiring to resting beside her. ]
I'm fine with that. Being ridiculous.
[ Though his smile remains, it softens, just as Noctis surely notices the flush on her features. While her hands have ceased working, Noctis reaches out for one. Not without some form of hesitation, but it gets there. He delicately takes her hand into his, looking to her without signs of letting that gaze go elsewhere. ]
Enjoy the opportunity while it lasts, right? I'm not exactly in a place to ignore the chance anymore.
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While he clearly demonstrates what little knowledge he has of coronation ceremonies, Luna can scarcely complain. In truth, she's been speaking off the top of her head this entire time. She joins in his laughter, quietly, remaining still as he adjusts the crown upon her head. She stills when he rests beside her, their backs against the trunk of the tree. ]
A bit of ridiculousness has its uses, I must admit. [ She concedes. The crown she'd been weaving lays forgotten as he takes her hand, effectively ceasing any of her efforts to continue... But she hardly minds. Luna's hand curls into his, holding it gently as she leans back, allowing her back to rest against his chest as she shifts her legs into a more comfortable position. Her movements are slow and measured, with no small degree of uncertainty on her end, but she settles against him eventually, warm and comfortable. ]
I suppose I'm not, either. [ She murmurs softly, looking up to him. Her face still colors with embarrassment, but her expression is soft. Contented. ] I am grateful for this. It would be an injustice to squander the opportunity that Hadriel has granted me...
[ She allows her words to hang in the air, sighing. Now would be an opportune time to illustrate just how she intends to not squander this chance, but alas. Lunafreya is stilled by her own uncertainty, and she isn't eager to breach the barrier that their kiss had already effectively dismantled again. Instead she's content to feel the way his heart beats against her, the measured double thump giving her comfort in its steadiness. ]
There is no room for ridiculousness anywhere else. Perhaps I should spend my entire tenure as Queen of Stumps being ridiculous.
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[ Perhaps it's nostalgia that drove such a small gesture, but Noctis looks at his hand delicately cupped around hers and feels absolutely no nerves or guilt to it. He would do it again, were they outside of this type of situation. And honestly, he feels the most comfortable with it. As if they never went past the way they treated each other as children despite the twelve years distance. ]
[ He sighs in kind, leaning against the tree and simply staring off. Being able to relax is such a luxury these days, and he's not exactly sure when shit will hit the metaphorical fan here. He does, however, manage a brief smirk at her remark. ]
Be as ridiculous as you want. It's what the people of Stumpdom need.
[ It's then that he finds himself falling silent, incapable of really moving this conversation forward and simply happy being. His gaze shifts only briefly to Luna before looking back out, where his fingers work to interlace with her own. He adjusts to allow more room for her to rest against him, should she desire to. As if to dip his toe in the waters. ]
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She watches his hand as his fingers move into the spaces between hers, slightly awkward in their current position, and she smiles as their palms meet. This, too, is like a kiss, somehow more intimate and heavy than when they had been children. His hand is larger than hers, rough and calloused from the road, and her thumb smooths over the outside of his, examining the way it feels underneath the pad of her finger. Lunafreya is keenly aware of the way his chest warms against her back, and she shifts again, making herself a comfortable spot between his thighs.
After a few moments, she turns to her side, pressing her own chest flush against his, nuzzling her face into the crook of his neck. She falls just short of initiating another kiss, hiding in the hollow between his jaw and shoulder; her bravery isn't so great as to drive her further than that, and she's sure that he can feel the way her pulse accelerates from this close proximity. Still. She makes no efforts to move, willing her breath to come evenly as it gusts warmly against his skin, her eyelids fluttering shut. ]
Let this be my first act of ridiculousness, then, if it so pleases my king. [ She breathes against the curve of his neck, unintentionally grazing the skin she finds there with her lips. ] If this is too inappropriate, pray, let me know. I will move.
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Ah, no it's...
[ He clears his throat, suddenly feeling Lunafreya's breath ghost along his pulse. The amount of comfort he had previously felt astonishingly remains, despite the way his heart rate hikes up a few beats per minute. He feels his neck instinctively crane, twitching fingers eventually ghosting forward where he begins to embrace her from her midsection. ]
It's fine.
[ Swallowing thickly, his head tilts forward, where their brows eventually meet as they often do. ]
I told you, I... meant what I did. This is an extension of that.
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When Noctis tilts his neck, Lunafreya is tempted to press her mouth against it properly; she shies away at the last moment, her heart pounding in her ears as she feels him speak against her. She can feel his heart against hers, thudding loud and steady, and her arms gently encircle his neck, the crown of flowers on her head shifting and falling to the ground. Her gaze follows it ruefully as it settles into the grass beside them, but she makes no efforts to retrieve it.
When he presses his brow to hers, Lunafreya meets his gaze as evenly as she can. ]
This is no kiss, Noctis. [ She murmurs, her voice whisper-thin. ] I fear that I am woefully uninformed in the art of intimacy... What else counts as an extension of one?
[ It's semi-flirtatious, semi-challenging. Part of her is tired of waiting, in spite of her resolve to remain steady at his side. Lunafreya scarcely knows what she's thinking, but she feels she functions better that way; her gods are not here to watch her, and while her devotion is dedicated to them, most of it is primarily reserved for the man in front of her. ]
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[ He cares so very deeply for her, and it's not like they haven't alluded to having feelings for one another between their journal exchanges. They were rare, ridiculously vague, and not really carrying much substance. Oceans of distance and Imperial blocking will destroy what little opportunities are already there to begin with. But now? Now that distance is effectively severed, and he's reminded of that the instant he can feel her breath against his mouth. ]
[ Their noses bump together, lips just barely grazing one another, and Noctis finds himself exhaling a nervous chuckle. His smirk is weak, quickly swallowed by the way he bites his lip in the face of her clever little prod. It's flirtatious and bold, and Noctis is rather impressed by it. He's not incapable of flirting, and he's done it a few times before, but to Luna? Not so much. At least not to this caliber. ]
Plenty of things.
[ Though his voice is just as thin and quiet, it cracks at the first word. While his hands twitch, one seems to somehow find its way to the small of her back, almost pulling her closer. ]
We could... Go over a few of them. One by one.
[ He's got enough courting experience to fill his pinkie finger, so this isn't exactly his strong suit. But Noctis manages a convincing bout of confidence for her sake. As his head slightly tilts, his nose brushes along the side of hers, eyes half-lidded . ]
Usually starts with a kiss, so we've tackled the first step at least.
[ This is a bit of a lengthy tease, but it's managing to prepare him. As the trembling starts to subside, his confidence starts to increase. But he waits for her, far to horrified in making her uncomfortable. Even if she's shown no signs of it so far. ]
[ Noctis casually shrugs. ]
Could start there?
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While she doesn't make it a habit to assume that she knows what lies in Noctis' heart, she'd be a fool to not know that there's something there, even if it may not coincide with her own feelings; they've written enough times to one another with vague allusions to affection for her to understand that much. The smirk and subsequent press of his teeth against his bottom lip is enough to cause something akin to desire to spark within her belly, though she makes no effort to display it past the flutter of her eyelids. ]
I only ask that you are patient with me, [ Lunafreya manages to half-choke, her breath hitching in her throat in response to the way his hand seems to bring her closer to him. Their breaths mingle at this point, warm and close, and Lunafreya feels heady from how close he is to her. ] ... And that you do not mind if I ask for a repeat of each enactment of possibility... Simply to assure that we are on the same page.
[ Lunafreya is terrible at flirting, but she manages to push the words out in a semi-seductive manner, at the very least. When Noctis tilts his head, she leans in, slow and torturous, her lips mere inches from his. Her gaze flickers down from his eyes to his mouth and she sighs, the anticipation nearly burning her up. ]
If... If that's what you wish, [ She murmurs. Lunafreya doesn't dare to close the distance between their mouths yet, content to hang upon the tenuous thread that is likely the fraying remnant of their previous relationship. He is her childhood friend, her king-- and now, perhaps, something else.
She's loath to give it a name. She stumbles over the thought. Her lips slightly part as she bumps her nose against his cheek, her breath washing warmly over his skin. She shifts forward against him, her hips slotting against his as she seeks a better angle, her gaze trained firmly upon his eyes. ]
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[ Oh god. Public... ]
[ A sharp breath follows the way her nose bumps along his cheek, where he can practically taste her lips and the sudden realization of where they are and what they are doing starts to eat him from the inside. There is a nervousness that takes him that he's not entirely familiar with, and it's not that he doesn't want to it's just... ]
[ No. No this isn't the place. Or the time. Noctis swallows thickly, realizing that this is coming off horrible after the conversation they had just had. He'll explain himself. Somehow. His intentions haven't changed but-- ]
Wait.
[ His hands retract. ]
Not...
Let's... Let's head back.