Sometimes
all you can do is lie in bed
and hope to fall asleep
before you fall apart
Just like Ignis said, it wasn't long before you found yourself approaching the palace gates. A feeling of dread overcame you as you watched the palace approach closer and closer, casting a great shadow over the car as it loomed over you, dark and unwelcoming just as you left it. Surrounding the palace, you noticed the amount of protesters had increased since your last visit. Their yells were loud and clear, and could be heard from the next street. However no matter how loud they shouted, their pleads always fell on deaf ears, as if the high walls of this grand building were acting like sound proof barriers, blocking the reality of the kingdom from entering their most trusted king's ears.
As the car drove up the the gates, the guards who stood by their posts immediately straightened their already perfect posture and sharply slice through the air with arm to salute.
"Welcome back Sir Scientia." one of the guards greeted as he walked up to the car window.
Peering out the window, you immediately recognised them as the same guards who assaulted you during your first visit. Your lips instantly fell to a fixed frown as you stared grimly at them, silently hoping that they'll look your way, and remember your penetrating stare. But alas, they didn't. Anyone who lived in the slums probably all looked the same to them anyway, so why did you think you were any different?
The gates--to which you depicted as the gates of hell--opened with the same loud grinding noise of the the mechanics churning together, much like growing dread inside you. When the gates were fully open, the driver gave the guards a nod of thanks to which the guards replied with a salute, and slowly drove through into the centre of the Citadel, following the circular road before parking at the front of the palace stairs, covered with it's lavish rich red carpet. As soon as the car stopped, Ignis got out of, which was your message to get out too. You picked grabbed your bag which you placed on the floor of the car, and reached your other hand out to take hold of the handle for the door. However, just as you were about the pull down, the door was opened by Ignis.
"We're here, Miss [Surname]." he said, and held his hand out for you to take.
Stunned by his uncalled gesture, you stared at his gloved hand for a few short seconds with a sense of uncertainty. You took a brief glance up at Ignis who stood in wait for you to take his hand. Hesitantly, you reached your hand out towards his. However just before your fingers could brush, you pulled your hand back to your side.
"I'm fine." you said with a blunt tone, and got yourself out of the vehicle fine, without the need for Ignis' help.
Ignis inwardly sighed, closing the car door behind him. As you wish Miss [Surname]. He responded in his head. But he had to respect your response, regardless if it bothered him or not.
. . .
The two of you walked through the palace hallway in complete silence. Each step you took with your flat shoes on the smooth and glossy marble floor sounded like loud pounds, as the walls carried the echos through the empty corridor. Though you had already been inside the palace once, your particular reason for coming at that time didn't allow you to get the full taste of what the place really looked like inside. The walls and archways of the hall which you were walking down were tall and thick and imposing, with their exquisitely engraved pillars, painted in the colours of black and grey and gold. Glancing up, you could also see the windows which lined the ceiling, allowing the hallway to illuminate with the natural lights of the sun--like a glow from the heavens. However, despite this illumination, the halls were still rather dark. You couldn't help but feel a sense of gloom, as if there was no room for laughter and smiles in this monochrome walkway. It made it as if you were walking down the aisle to your dreaded doom.
The walk continued until you reached the outside of what appeared to be another room. Without telling you what the room was, Ignis knocked on the door.
"Coming!" A female voice yelled answered, you raised your brow in confusion. You thought you were going to see the king.
The door opened shortly, revealing the face of the woman who had called out. She looked a bit older than you and Ignis, probably in her early or mid thirties. Her brown hair was pulled back into a neat, low bun. From the uniform she was wearing, you assumed that she was one of the maids or servants.
"Ignis." she greeted with a bow, slightly surprised by the royal advisors sudden visit. "What a pleasant surprise. What brings you here to the servant quarters?"
"Clementine." Ignis greeted back. "This is Miss [Surname]." he gestured his hand towards your direction to introduce your presence. "She's going to working for us and I want you to show her the ropes."
"Oh? It's been awhile since we've gotten any new recruits." the servant who you now knew as Clementine said.
"I trust that you can look after her?" Ignis asked.
"Yes, of course Ignis." Clementine reassured. "I'll teach her all that she needs to know."
Ignis nodded. "I'm going to go to see his majesty now. So if you nee3d me." He looked to you. "I'll be in the king's office."
"Ah yes, his majesty must be working hard." Clementine commented.
"Indeed." Ignis said. And with that, he walked off leaving you with the servant.
Feeling slightly awkward, you gave her a forced smile. "Please take care of me." you murmured, bowing your head slightly.
"There's no need for that." Clementine said, giving you a gentle smile. "Why don't you come inside and I'll help you get yourself sorted." She opened the door to the room wider, giving you space to walk in.
With your bag clutched in your hands, you entered the room to see two rows of beds lined up in either side of the room. Positioned at the back was a very large window, leading out to what appeared to be a balcony. The room was quite nicely furnished with a sitting area and a small dining table--much nicer than the prison cell you stayed in. However cell or not, it still felt the same to you.
"So Miss [Surname] was it?" Clementine asked. "What about your first name?"
You tightened your lips for a moment, hesitant to respond. "It's [Name]."
"Would you like me to call you Miss [Surname] or [Name]?" Clementine asked, her gentle still yet to falter.
"Just [Name] is fine." you replied.
"Well [Name], why don't you go put your bag down and I'll got get your uniform." she said, walking towards what appeared to be a storeroom. "I think the bed near the window is vacant."
"Oh, okay." you walked towards your designated bed, placing your bag down on the floor beside the bed. Looking around, you couldn't help but notice the emptiness of the other beds, almost like no one's slept on them before.
Clementine soon returned with a set of neatly folded clothes. "These are the smallest ones we have at the moment. But I think they'll fit you considering how thin you are." she handed them over to you.
"Hey Clementine? Is it just us two staying here?" you asked.
"No, there are others." Clementine replied. "Some are working right now, but there are also others who returned home for the weekend."
You felt your heart stop at the sound of those words. "We're allowed to go home for the weekend?" you asked.
Clementine nodded. "Of course! The palace can't keep you in here for the whole week. We may be staying here, but we still have families to return to." she smiled. "I'm sure you have family to go home to too right?"
"Yeah, I do." you said. A small smile graced your lips. You couldn't help but feel a wave of happiness overcome you upon hearing that you were allowed to return home--back to Fidelis, back to Luca. Turns out you weren't exactly cooped up in here after all.
"Well, why don't you go and get changed in the bathroom. And then we can get started." Clementine gestured to the bathroom.
You nodded and made your way to the bathroom with the folded clothes in your arms. Upon putting the uniform on, a slight grimace pulled on your features as you stared at yourself in the mirror. Your hands smoothed out the plain white blouse and tugged at the hem of the skirt which reached just above your knees. Like Clementine predicted, the uniform fit, but the plainness of the clothes only further emphasised how plain and mundane you looked. You sighed and pulled your hair back into a ponytail.There was no use brooding inside the bathroom, you were only keeping Clementine. Taking one last glance at the mirror, you walked out of the bathroom to see the said servant standing right at the door.
"Looks good on you [Name]. Ah, your collar is a bit crooked though." she pointed out, and reached out to fix it.
"Oh, uh thank you." you murmured, slightly embarrassed.
"No problem." she smiled. "Here your apron." she handed over the white fabric to you.
You unfolded the apron, to loop it over your neck, pulling the strings to tie behind your back.
Clementine smiled. "Perfect! C'mon, let's go." and before you could respond, she grabbed hold of your hand and dragged your out of the room.
. . .
"Is that her?"
"Is she the girl who attacked the king?"
"I heard she was going to be executed, but the king saved her."
"How stupid, look how filthy she is. What's the point of having her clean when she's only going to dirty the floors."
If there was anything new you learnt during your short stay, it was that news traveled extremely fast in the palace grounds. Wherever you walked, you could hear the other maids and servants whispering among themselves behind your back. Their judging stares, felt like daggers being stabbed into your flesh. You would turn to look at them from time to time, but they'll only respond by looking away or stare back with eyes of pity. You didn't blame them though, it was human nature to gossip about people, especially if they didn't fit into the social norms of this palace. As long as it made them feel better about themselves, you couldn't really stop them. It wasn't like a mere peasant like you had the strength to talk back, they'll only laugh back.
Ignoring the constant whispering behind you, you continued to clean the area around you. Clementine was not far from you, conversing with the other servants and maids. It was crazy how simple it was for someone to change when with another person, they were like totally different people when they were around her.
Sighing, you gazed up to see a collection of paintings hanging up on the walls. Lined one after another were the paintings of the past kings of Lucis--all framed in immensely detailed gold frames. Each and every of of them was garbed in the same black leather cloak with the plate of armour on the shoulder. They had their hand resting on the hilt of the sword with the other on their hip, the crown sat beside them on a extravagantly clothed table. In front of the draped backdrop of black and silver, all stood tall and proud--with their stoic expressions--alluding them the image of absolute power and authority. Your line of sight followed down the line until they fell upon the portrait of the late King Regis--the 113th king of the royal Caelum family. Like all the other kings, he to held the same pose; tall, straight and powerful. But unlike them, through his rough features and dark hair at the time, you could see a sense of gentleness. He was a great king, a one that everyone in the whole of Lucis loved. He listened to his people's every word, allowing him to strive for the very best for his kingdom. It was complete devastation when he lost his life during the invasion. Many said that he was killed while others said it was sacrifice he chose to make. But whatever rumour was true, it still didn't change the fact that he was really gone--leaving the future of Lucis into the hands of his only heir.
With that being said, you then turned your eyes to the painting of Noctis. Garbed in a suit with the same leather black cloak carried by many generations, draped over his shoulders, he stood high, his hand resting on the sheathed sword and the crown sitting beside him. The painting gave him that look of power and strength--if only he was truly like that in reality. His expression was fixed almost emotionless, like he'd been crushed one too many times. There was no anger, no sadness, no joy or resentment. It was just cold and distant, like the distance he was putting between him and his people. The way his blue eyes bore holes at yours through the painting felt penetrating, freezing you in place.
Your attention continued drifting across the painting covered wall--past the one which appeared to be King Regis in his younger days with three other men, looking into the horizon of the kingdom--until you reached the painting hanging above the black leather couch. It was one of a Noctis as a child, sitting on a black chair that resembled a small throne with King Regis standing beside him, looking down with at his son with a caring, warm smile. The smiles on their faces could tell you so much about who they were. Noctis' smile as he gazed up at this father, looked cheerful and carefree, filled with so much innocence, yet to be tainted by the pressures of kingship. It was surprising to even think that the little boy in the painting and the cold king was the same person.
"Beautiful painting isn't it?"
You jolted, started by Clementine who was now standing beside you, she too was now looking up at the painting of Regis and his little boy. It tugged a certain place in your heart, knowing that his soft and innocent smile was robbed too soon.
"Yeah." you replied. "It is."
"It's one of my favourites." Clementine smiled. "Oh, how much he's grown since."
"You've known the king since he was a child?" you asked, curious.
Clementine nodded. "Yes, I've been working in the palace ever his majesty's adolescence" she replied. "He was so kind, so gentle and warm-hearted."
"Is that so?..." you murmured.
"I remember there was time, when Gladiolus' sister, Iris came over to meet the young Prince at that time." Clementine suddenly started to share. "Iris managed to wander out of the palace walls and got herself lost. I was walking with him down the gardens when he suddenly ran off and told me he going for a walk. Hours passed and he was yet to return. I was worried about his whereabout so I quickly went to report it to Gladiolus. The whole palace was in chaos with Iris and the Prince both missing."
"Where did he end up going?" you asked.
"Turns out he went to find Iris. When he returned to the palace they were both drenched in rain. Iris was covered in mud. Of course everyone was relieved that they were both safe and unharmed, however King Regis grounded him after that for putting Iris life in danger. But little did he know, his majesty's story of asking Iris to come out and play with him was just a lie to keep her away from getting in trouble." Clementine chuckled. "Even at such a young age, he was still looking out for his people."
Looking out for his people. If only that was something he still did.
You then noticed, throughout the whole wall, there were no paintings of the Queen.
"Clementine?" you questioned. "Why are there no paintings of the Queen?"
Clementine smiled sadly and looked down. "I was told by the people who worked here before me that they were all destroyed when she died." she spoke woefully. "She lost her life after the birth of the heir. It was a tough labor and the Queen was already weak in health. She knew the risks of natural birth but she still went with it, knowing that she could lose her life." the servant let out a heavy and long sigh. "The king was devastated by her death and ordered all the paintings and pictures of her to be destroyed. It probably pained him to much to know that he couldn't save her. Though their marriage was arranged, his majesty King Regis really did love her deeply."
"Oh..." you said, unsure on how to respond.
"It breaks my heart knowing that his majesty can never experience the love of a mother." Clementine softly murmured "But, I do know that there is still one painting that managed to be saved." she looked up. "It's currently sitting in the king's chambers. I've seen it a couple times."
You stared at the painting once more. After hearing what Clementine said, you couldn't help but feel even the smallest bit sympathetic for Noctis. To lose a father was one thing, but to not even know about who your own mother was--it must've been hard for him and Regis. Sure you lost your parents too, but at least you knew who your mother and father were.
"Miss [Surname]."
You and Clementine turned your attention from the paintings to the door of the Drawing Room to see the royal advisor making his way towards you, sharp and presentable as you last saw him.
"Ignis. I'm assuming you're done aiding his majesty with his royal duties?" Clementine asked.
"Not exactly. I'm just here for Miss [Surname]." he said and turned to you.
You blinked. "What do you need me for Sir Scientia." you asked.
"Well to frank, it's not me who needs you." Ignis readjusted his classes. "His majesty requests your audience."
You froze. "The k-king?" you asked. You wanted to slap yourself at that very moment. Of course it was the king, who else would be called his majesty.
Ignis nodded. "Yes, the king. Now, we have no time to waste, we don't wanna keep him waiting."
. . .
Once again, the both of you walked down the palace in complete silence, the high walls looming over you as per usual. After going up a few flight of stairs to the second level, it wasn't long until you reached the outside of a room, closed shut with large oak double doors. It didn't take you long to realise that the room on the other side was the king's' personal study.
Without giving you time to prepare, Ignis opened the door. The office, like the rest of the palace screamed luxury. The walls were also painted in their usual monochrome colours. Bookshelves was up against the wall stacked with books probably filled with historic texts, magic spells or journals. You also noticed a number of paintings up on the wall as well. However the most prominent piece of furniture, was the large oak desk was situated in the centre accompanied by two chairs. Sitting on one of them was the king himself and he appeared to be occupied in some documents that were stacked in huge mounds on his desk.
"I brought her like you asked your majesty." Ignis spoke.
Noctis looked up from the papers and his eyes landed on your figure standing by the doorway. Like your first meeting, you stared back at him with a penetrating gaze. His lips tightened in a line, he could tell that you weren't looking forward to seeing him.
Noctis sighed and looked back down to his work. "Thank you Ignis, you may go."
"Of course." Ignis bowed, talking a brief glance at you before the door closed heavily behind him. In his head, he prayed that hell wasn't going to break loose in there.
"Sit." Noctis finally spoke up. However his eyes never left the papers he was reading.
You furrowed your brows in slight irritation at how bluntly he spoke to you. Nevertheless, you compiled and sat yourself down on the seat across the king. The suffocating silence enveloped the room as you watched continued to watch Noctis reading his papers.You frowned slightly, wondering how long he was planning on making you wait. Did he just summon you here only to have you stare at him while he worked? You tried your best to not tap your foot against the ground with impatience. If there was an award for how long people could sit in silence, it would certainly go to you two. Your ears strained for some type of noise, even if it was just the sound of the pen scratching against the paper, but even that ceased to exist.
Slightly annoyed, you turned your gaze away from Noctis to the window outside. From his office, you could see the Insomnia in its rebuilding glory, with the cranes now becoming a part of the skyline. How much longer till the city was completely rebuilt, you would wonder. The damage Insomnia sustained after the invasion was certainly catastrophic, almost to the point where the city was completely obliterated. But now, as if it was a miracle sent from heaven, the city's rebirth was now made into a reality.
"It's amazing isn't it?"
"Huh?" you turned your head to see Noctis had stopped doing what he doing, and was now also looking out the window.
"How fast the city is being rebuilt." Noctis continued.
You tore your eyes away from the window back down to your lap. "Yeah, too bad some people aren't alive to see it." you muttered.
Noctis bit down on his lip at your comment. Well that was off to a great start. He could feel the air between you two already grow more awkward than it already was. "So, how are you coping with everything?" he asked, in an attempt to dilute the tension.
You tilted your head up. The casual change in conversation caught you off guard. "Fine." you answered. "Your majesty." Even if you did find distaste in the king, you still had to stay respectful to some degree.
"That's good to hear." Noctis replied. The awkwardness still lingered like a thick cloud, almost suffocating the young king. "I'm sure the other maids and servants are taking good care of you."
You frowned at Noctis sudden change in tone. He sounded nice, friendly, fake. You knew what he was really like, so why did he have to pretend. He threw you into prison and left you there to almost die! Was acting all friendly his way of pretending such thing never happened? There was no way in hell you were going to let that slide easily.
"Why are you being so nice to me?" you went straight to the question.
Noctis almost choked at how straightforwardly you asked him. You didn't even leave any hints for him to see it coming. "What?" he questioned back, pretending to sound confused.
"There's no need for that." you began. "We both know what you're really like, so cut the crap and stop pretending." you said with no sign of remorse. "It's sickening to watch."
The young king sat gobsmacked at your unexpected remark. A filter did not exist in those words, you just went straight for it. Then again, things were pretty much the same during the first meeting, it shouldn't be something to be surprised about. Noctis cleared his throat in an attempt to maintain his composure.
"I wanted to apologize to you about what I did to you the other day."
Your eyes enlarged as those words apologise was the king really capable of doing such.
"I want us to leave all that behind and start over." Noctis then stuck his hand out for you to shake. "I'm Noctis, nice to meet you."
You stared at his hand with an evident scorn. "Start over." you scoffed, clicking your tongue. "What a joke."
Noctis knitted his brows together and lowered his hand. This was going to be a lot harder than he thought. You hated him, it was as clear as crystal. The way you rejected his offer to start over and your disturbed body language was already enough proof. But who wouldn't, after what he did to you.
"I'm sorry if I upset you--"
"Upset me?" you let out a laugh filled with scorn. "You did more than upset me your majesty. You attacked me--an innocent person-- you threw me into a prison, leaving me there to rot." you hissed emphasised the last word, your eyes narrowed to a piercing glare as you leaned forward in your seat. "You think a pity apology is going to make me forget everything that happened?"
Noctis frowned. "I know what I did was wrong Miss [Surname]." you could feel his calm demeanor slipping. The tension in the air was expanding to the point where the room couldn't contain it anymore.
"It was more than wrong, you committed a sin." you spat venomously. "These scars which you've burnt into my conscious will always be reminding me how low and pathetic you are."
Noctis scowl deepened "Excuse me?" he crossed his arms over his chest. "You're the one that spoke ill of my family name." he muttered. "If more than anything, you're the one that committed a sin Miss [Surname]."
Your lips pulled into a grimace and you stared back with equal resentment. "I can't take back what's true your majesty. I said it once, and I'll say it again. You're an embarrassment to the royal name in which you bear."
Noctis gritted his teeth, his hands curling into fists on the table. He could feel the anger burning within lacing through his veins. He was getting nowhere with you. His lips curled, nostrils flaring. Noctis mind felt as if it coursing with lead instead of blood as it filled his heads with ill thoughts. I should've killed you when I had the chance. He tried his best keep calm, to start things over with you. But you were reluctant in doing so, spitting the same toxic words that drove Noctis over the edge in the first place.
"How dare you talk to me like that! Apologise this instant!" he roared, trembling the room with terror. He would think that after throwing you into that prison you would've learnt your lesson. But apparently, it didn't go through that thick skull of yours.
"You apologise to your people!" you shrieked back, shooting up from your seat and turned your heel to walk to the door.
"Don't you dare walk away when I talk to you!" Noctis shouted. However you continued to walk away. His jaw tightened from your refusal to listen. Rising from his seat he then lifted his fists and slammed it onto the desk, sending papers to fly off the desk onto the floor. "I order you to stop!"
As demanded, you halted in your steps and turned around the face the king. Your eyes met his now crimson ones, your orbs burning with the same amount of fury. "You may be Lucis' king your majesty." your voice now softer but the tone of disgust still remained untouched. "But until you start acting as one, I refuse to acknowledge you as mine." you seethed. And before Noctis could open his mouth to respond, you walked out of the office, and the door slammed shut behind you, sending a loud echo throughout the hall.
When you walked out of the room, you immediately noticed the maids and servants staring at you. They must've heard everything that happening inside the king's office. With a fixed glare, you ignored their stares, turning your heel to walk the hallway back to where you came from. As you walked, you could feel your hated for the king flowing through your veins like acid. After everything, he still hadn't changed, he was still the same low, pathetic and empty king you met a week ago. Just thinking about him made you want to hurl. All that sympathy which you felt before had diminished like it never existed. The only thing you felt in your system was disgust. Total disgust which churned at your insides. How could you place your trust in a leader like that? There was no way in hell was the little boy in that painting the same man who just spat vermin at you. There was no way, it couldn't be possible.
As you continued to walk, you didn't notice the sound of footsteps approaching behind you. It was only did you feel a light tap on your shoulder did you let out a loud yelp of surprise, whipping your body around in a flurry to see the familiar freckled face of a blonde male grinning at you.
"Didn't think I'd see you so soon miss. Or should I say. Miss [Surname]." Prompto's grin widened.
You sighed with a hint of annoyance. After what just happened with Noctis, you didn't want to talk to anyone at the moment. But you just so happened to be blessed with the company of the most talkative being in the palace. "Good day to you Sir Argentum?" you greeted with a small bow, trying your best to sound as polite as possible despite the frustration.
"Ah, just call me Prompto. I'm not really comfortable with the whole formal thing." he said, waving his hands in front of him as if he was waving off your greeting "And don't bow! I mean, it's not like I have any high position in the palace or anything. I'm just a normal dude like you. Well not saying that you're a dude or anything mean--Gah what am I saying..." he sheepishly began to rub the back the back on his neck in embarrassment.
Suddenly, a stifled chuckle escaped your lips.The sound did not go unnoticed by the blonde.
"Hey, you do know how to laugh!"
Immediately after hearing those words your smile fell was replaced by your usual emotionless expression. "What do you want Sir Argent--"
"Ah!" Prompto raised his finger.
"P-Prompto." you quickly corrected yourself.
"Oh nothing. I just wanted to see who the new servant was." he said, eyeing you in your new uniform. "The uniform looks nice on you by the way." he smiled.
You felt a slight warmth entering your cheeks from his uncalled compliment. "T-Thanks." you stammered slightly. "Look, as much as I would like to talk, I really need to get going." you said, and quickly continued to walk down the hall. However to your dismay, the blonde continued to follow you.
"So, what happened back there! I heard a lot of yelling." Prompto suddenly began to question.
You froze. "It was nothing." you quickly answered.
The next question caught you off guard. "Why do you hate him so much?"
"What?"
Prompto crossed his arms over his chest. His tone was not forceful, but rather more puzzled. "I mean, I know he's being a jerk and all, but Noct is just have a rough time at the moment. He's not usually like this. This whole king thing is all to new to him so he still has trouble adjusting."
"How can I find myself liking someone who almost killed me?" you said lowly.
"Okay, that I understand." he rubbed the back of his neck in an apologetic manner almost as if to make you feel like you weren't being pitied. "But he's not usually this bad, like he's normally a very nice guy. It's just lately he's just been--"
"Angry?"
"Upset." Prompto quickly said. "I've always had his back, looked out for him like a brother of my own. But these few months...he's changed."
"I believe you've already told me this before Prompto." you said.
"I know but, I've noticed a lot more clearly lately." Prompto pursed his lips. "Y'know, Noctis may have his bad days but, never like this. Everything just collapsed after the war. Like his whole life was stripped away from him.
You remained silent Sounds a lot like my life you responded in your head.
"So, if you're here. Does that mean you thought about our deal?" the blonde slowly asked.
You stopped in your footsteps to turn to Prompto. The blonde did suit. "Look Prompto." you began, turning your gaze to him.
"Yes?" Prompto tilted his head in question.
You sighed heavily. "I'm not here for you deal, and I'm not here to make friends either. I'm just here to work, and when I'm done here, I'll be out of the palace and out of your lives." you bit down on your lips, unsure how to word your next sentence. "I don't mean to be rude, but I just want to be alone right now. I've very busy and I don't have time to stand around and chat."
You waited for Prompto's response, expecting him to fire back. However to your surprise, he smile back, like the male didn't have an ounce of negativity in his system. "Okay." he replied casually like your request did not affect him. "Sorry, I didn't realise I was bothering you."
"I-It's okay, Prompto."
"Don't be afraid to find me if you have any troubles." Prompto's smile was yet to falter. "I'll see you around [Name]!" and with that, that blonde jogged off, leaving you alone in the hallway.
. . .
Your walk back through the hallway was now quiet without the company of the talkative blonde. You felt rather guilty having talked to him in such a blunt way. He was a good man compared to the rest of the people who were housed in the palace, and even if you didn't want to admit it, you somewhat enjoyed his company.
With no one to converse with, you continued to walk down the hallway until you realise that you had been walking for quite some time, and you were yet to return to the room that you were designated to clean. It was at that moment did it hit you--you were lost.
You cursed under your breath. "God damnit [Name]." Looking around, you noticed that there was no one around to ask, and it was probably already too late to go find Prompto and ask him for help. "I guess I'll keep walking then." and you did just that.
You continued to walk down this maze of a palace for what felt like hours when it reality it was only a few minutes until you stumbled upon a flight of stairs. With nowhere else to go, you stepped down the stone steps until you reached another room. Scanning your surroundings, you took sight of the various weapons which were racked, and hung on the shelves and walls; you were in the sparring hall.
"Hey, what are you doing here?"
You made a small squeak--a sound you were not aware you were capable of making--when you heard the loud and rough voice called out. You turned to the sound of the voice and there you saw the familiar scarred face of a royal guard, staring at you from where he stood; shirtless and drenched in sweat with his insanely large and heavy looking sword in his hand. You felt a rush of warmth enter your cheeks at the sight. Of course his chest was already exposed when you first met him, but at least he was wearing clothes.
"Hey, you're that girl." he gasped. "Turns you're you're the new maid afterall."
"Uh, yeah I am." you replied awkwardly.
"So what brings you here to the sparring hall? Don't tell me you want to pick up a few skills to get back at Noct?" he grinned.
It was strange seeing him behave like this around you--more carefree than serious--despite him being the one who walked you into the prison cell. "'m afraid not. I just got lost when I was trying to walk back to the Drawing Room." you replied. As tempting as that sounds your conscious added.
Gladio nodded knowingly. "Ah I see. I don't blame you for getting lost. It is quite hard to find your way around the palace with the amount of rooms it has."
No kidding you huffed.
"Just give me a few minutes to pack this all up, and I'll walk you to where you need to go."
After a few minutes like Gladiolus had said, he returned fully in his open shirt. Your eyes subconsciously found themselves staring.
"So the Drawing Room did you say?" Gladiolus asked.
You nodded.
"Alright then, follow me."
You followed Gladiolus up the stairs, out of the sparring and back to the long hallway. Due to the minimal exchange of words between the both of you, the royal guard decided to spark up a conversation.
"So, are you enjoying your stay so far?"
You fixed your attention to the hallway in front of you. "It's alright." you simply responded. "Tiring."
Gladiolus chuckled. "That's life in the palace little miss. But don't worry, you'll get to use to it."
"Lets hope so." you quipped back, making Gladiolus smile "A mere peasant like me isn't normally accustomed to such settings." his smile fell after that along with the attempt of a conversation.
It wasn't long until the royal guard escorted you to your destination. Entering the room, you were instantly greeted with Clementine who had rushed to you with a face of worry.
"Oh [Name], where were you? I was so worried." she gasped.
"Sorry, I got lost." you apologised. "But I got one of the guards to help me find my way back." you said, turning to Gladio who stood beside you.
"Thank you so much Gladiolus." Clementine bowed her head. "I would've gone to find her myself if it wasn't for you."
"Just doing my job. Wouldn't want Miss [Surname] to be wandering around by herself." Gladiolus said.
"It's [Name]." you spoke up.
"Sorry?" Gladiolus blinked.
"My names [Name]. Just call me that from now on." you clarified.
A smile made its way to Gladiolus' lips. "I'll see you around [Name]."
"Thank you." you said, to which Gladiolus gave a curt nod in response before excusing himself.
"Well not that you're back." Clementine turned to face you. "We have a little bit left to do before we're excused for the evening. So the quicker we get this done, the more time we get to relax."
You nodded. "Okay." You worked yourself the whole evening. It was the only way to draw yourself away from your thoughts.
. . .
Night had fallen a lot more sooner than you had anticipated. You were fed and bathed in such a lavish way, that you never knew you were going to live to experience. It was nice, but all you wanted to do now was have some time to yourself. Presently, you were on your bed on the phone with your childhood friend. You didn't like to admit it., but you did feel a little homesick.
"How are you going?" Fidelis asked over the phone.
"Tiring." You sighed heavily "And it's only day one."
"Well it was your own fault for accepting the job." Fidelis stated.
You frowned at his words. "I told you Fid, I couldn't decline.
"I know but, it's still bothering me." he said softly.
You bit down on your lip. "I know. But hey, I just found out today that I'm allowed to come home on the weekends."
"Really?" Fidelis gasped.
"Yeah, so technically I'm not gone forever."
"That's great news!"
"Yeah, it is...." you trailed off. "How's Luca?" Even though working took your mind off things, it wasn't enough to take away the worries you had for you little brother. Unlike your usual thoughts, they were permanently imprinted into your mind-set with no way of removal.
"Do you want to talk to him?" Fidelis questioned back.
"Is he still awake?" you blinked. "Fid, it's almost ten o'clock, you know he can't stay up this late." you scolded.
"I know, but he's been crying ever since you left [Name]. I've been trying to get him to bed." Fidelis tried to reason.
You sighed. "Get him on the phone."
The sound of rustling entered your ears from Fidelis handing the phone over to your little brother. As soon as the phone reached Luca's hands, you immediately heard the quiet sniffles and sobs.
"Hey Luca." you spoke gently.
"[N-Name]?" Luca choked out.
Your heart tightened from hearing his sobs. "How are you are?"
Luca breathed in a shaky breath before responding. "I-I'm good."
"Are you being a good kid and listening to Fidelis?"
"Y-Yes." the little boy sniffled.
You smiled. Talking to Luca had lightened your worries a little bit. "That's good to hear."
"I-Is it true that you're going to come home on the weekends?" Luca questioned.
"Yes that's true." you said, You could hear a light gasp from the other side."So be a good kid until I come back okay?"
"Okay!" You could already imagine the beaming smile Luca was wearing on his face from hearing the news.
"Now go to sleep. It's late." you now said with a stern voice.
"Good night sis!"
"Good Night Luca." And with that, the phone was passed back to Fidelis. "Thanks for that by the way. I really needed it."
Fidelis chuckled. "At least he's feeling better now."
"Yeah..."
The call grew quiet for a few moments as neither you you knew what else to say. It lingered in the air like a thick blanket. All that was heard was the sound of the two of you breathing.
"Well I guess I should get some rest now. I have an early morning ahead of me." you spoke first, breaking silence.
"Alright then. Good night [Name]."
"Good night."
However despite your words, sleep was not with you that night. While the rest of the world embraced their dreams, you tossed and turned , battling the dark for a position you deemed the most comfortable. You breathed out. The sigh which escaped your lips sounded weary and exhausted--much like the aching pain that enveloped your body. However despite you being mentally and physically drained, you couldn't make yourself fall asleep. Your brain was begging for unconsciousness, for sleep at any price. The cause was not the mattresses--if more than anything, you desperately wanted to melt into the soft foam, without feeling the springs jabbing into your back--or the unfamiliar room. It was the haunting thoughts which did not stop flowing into your mindset in these hours of darkness, pulling out new sources of disaster and danger. Though you knew these thoughts were nothing but irrational, your stubborn subconscious remain stubborn in an attempt to protect you and ensure your survival. Quite ironic, for what you really needed to ensure your survival tomorrow was sleep. You continued to toss and turn, pulling the blanket closer to your body. Trying to make yourself fall asleep, you took in deep breaths, however that was no use either. Your eyes wouldn't close, your heart wouldn't stop erratically beating. This dark space you lay in was endless, in this spaceless prison. You wished to drift away into a never ending dream, but dreams were only a distant memory in this hell of a reality. Sleep was more of a blessing from the heavens than a given.
Having given up on trying, you sat up from where you lay. Dragging the covers with you, you slipped out of bed and walked towards to large window to sit yourself on the windowsill. Hugging your knees, you lay your head on your arms as you gazed out the city below. Insomnias lights glistened like exquisite jewels, and even at this time of night, the city was still yet to sleep. Looking up, you did not see any sign of stars decorating this inky blanket--they were all covered by the grey clouds looming overhead. What you did see however was the moon--shining at its fullest, like a giant spotlight over the city. Your gaze continued to wander until it fell upon a visible balcony--there was a person standing there. Due to the dark, you couldn't exactly depict who it was. Furrowing your brows, you squinted your eyes to get a better look at who this mysterious was. It wasn't long until you found yourself recognising that head of dark, and messily spiked hair.
It was the king.
What is he doing up this late you questioned, knowing that you shouldn't be the one talking with you also being wide awake at this late hour. You continued to watch him standing with his arm resting against the railing. From what you could see, it also appeared that he too was looking up at the night sky. All was well, until Noctis started to climb up on the railing. Your eyes widened in an instant and you shot up at the sight.
"What the hell is this idiot doing?" you hissed between clenched teeth. Is he going to jump? Should I tell Clementine?
However before you were able to take action, the king's body disappeared in what looked like a cloud of blue stars.
. . .
A/N: Betcha guys didn't expect an update so soon huh? I already had this chapter written up after I wrote the previous chapter since this as supposed to be in the last chapter. But obviously chapter 6 was already getting long so I had to cut it short. THen theres this chapter which is like...almost 8000 words long ...... OKAY THEN ENOUGH OF THAT consider this a treat before I stop updating this story for a couple months LOL
Also if youre all wondering, Clementine is supposed to be the maid/servant lady from the latest Brotherhood episode. I might change her name though. I wanted to go for a name that meant like gentleness but i dunno, she doesn't look like a Clementine to me. What do you guys think?
ALSO YOUR FEEDBACK IS VERY MUCH CHERISHED SO DON'T HESITATE TO LEAVE A COMMENT ON WHO YOU WANNA SLAP OR WHATEVER (๑・v・๑)