A Man Of No Consequence (Ardyn x Reader)

In The Lap Of The Gods, Revisited

"Oh, yeah of course. Would you like something?"

"A warm tea would be amazing," you respond with a big smile.

As soon as the cup arrives, you wrap your fingers around the warm porcelain, enjoying the cozy feeling that instantly feels relaxing.

The prince introduces his entourage, and explains how their journey has turned from a road trip to a wedding, to a political mission. You do your best to pretend you know nothing about the Empire, or the prophecies. The four turn out to be a charming bunch, gladly entertaining you and keeping you company.

Ignis enquires why you're dressed so formal, and you make up a story about how your cousin had a fancy birthday party, that you've just left. You retell your own story in turn, leaving out any details about your involvement with the Chancellor. Noctis offers to take you to Lady Lunafreya as soon as they have established that she's safe, and you gladly accept the help.

You exchange stories of your travels, laugh at their silly jokes, and talk about what you know about the lore of Eos. Finally, Noctis reveals the reason for the Oracle being in Altissia; to forge a covenant with the Hydraean.

"A covenant?" you feel your chest tighten upon hearing the word.

"Yes, the Oracle awakens the Hydraean in an attempt to forge a covenant," he repeats.

"How does the Oracle do that?"

"I... don't know," he admits.

"We will find out tomorrow," Gladiolus grunts. "Speaking of which, it's getting late. I wanna hit the sack."

"Oh, by all means," you agree. "I don't want to hold you."

"Shall we see the lady to her residence, Noct?" Ignis asks, as you all get up from the table.

"Please, I don't want to trouble you," you insist, not wanting the prince to follow you to the Imperial Residence.

"No trouble," Noctis responds. "We'll walk you home."

Feeling like turning the offer down from a prince would be too rude, you accept reluctantly, wondering if you need to take them to a random place somewhere in the city.

"How well do you know Altissia?" you ask in passing.

"Not at all," Noctis confesses. What a relief.

The residence is less than a ten-minute walk away, and you stop a good distance from the entrance as you reach the building, turning to Noctis and his friends.

"I was so lucky to run into you," you tell them. "I eagerly wait for your update tomorrow."

"I would stay somewhere safe tomorrow," the prince advises. "Might get ugly."

"I will," you promise. "Thanks for seeing me home."

Looking at the prince, you feel a sudden sadness weighing on your chest. He seems so young, so sweet, his goofy smile so optimistic, yet you know in your gut the outcome won't be pleasant for him. You want to encourage, almost to comfort him. Following your instinct, you step forward and give the prince a warm, friendly embrace.

"Thank you," you sigh. Though surprised, the prince gives you a little hug, patting you on the back.

"Uh... you're welcome," he responds.

You step back, and give a big smile to the trio standing behind Noctis. Waving your hand, you thank them and wish them good night, hoping they would turn and walk away. They all wave and smile in response, but remain stood in position.