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Noctis Lucis Caelum didn’t so much as celebrate the Solstice as he did observe it. For the Crown Prince of Lucis, the Solstice period was full of public engagements and services, with very little time spared for the family and friends aspect generally associated with the festive season.

By virtue of said engagements, he did manage to spend a lot of time with Ignis and Gladio, but that was work, and it was definitely not the same. So Noctis sometimes felt like he was on the outside looking in. Participating but not really experiencing what the Solstice had to offer. More often than not it meant that Noctis felt left out. Left behind. It didn’t help that his three best friends were dating each other. That more than anything made Noctis feel left behind. And even worse, he didn’t really understand why he was left out. From all his observations, it seemed natural that they would ask him to join them too, but they hadn’t.

He wanted them to, so badly.

Noctis adored everything about them. Gladio’s strength and his romantic streak, Ignis’ intelligence, his cooking, his patience. And Prompto’s sunshine smile and positive outlook despite his tendency towards anxiety at times.  He loved his three best friends with a fierce tenderness, and he wanted them to love him too. 

“Will Lunafreya be joining you for any time this year, Noct?” Ignis had asked as he quickly prepared their evening meal one night.

“Uh, yeah. She’ll be down here in the next few days.” Noctis had answered. “Dad’s offered her a place with me for the services.”

“That sounds like fun.” Ignis had replied softly, but there was a tightness to his eyes.

“Yeah, having her here will make everything way more bearable than usual.” Noct agreed. 

“Maybe she can help you out with that carol service thing you’re supposed to do?” Prompto had suggested easily.

Ah, the carol service. The bane of Noctis’ entire existence. Ever since he was a kid and Regis had discovered his son’s ability to carry a tune, Noct had spent a good portion of November and December rehearsing for the damn thing.  It had been kind of fun as a child, but going into his teens and early adulthood and still being expected to stand in front of an entire congregation of Lucian nobility and sing for them had quickly become a chore. It was a tradition made for him and he hated it. Months of extra duties just to practice singing traditional Solstice songs. Noctis barely even knew any of the more modern songs. They weren’t performed at the traditional services, only hymns and more sombre, solemn carols were performed. Not even modern arrangements of traditional songs were permitted.

The same could not be said for the living quarters occupied by his three friends. Music and joy were a constant in their home at any time of year, but Solstice had always brought a certain extra something with it that lit up their space with more than just lights. There was no place Noctis would rather be, but at the same time it only highlighted how lonely he was, and how cold his life outside the walls of their apartment really was. He loved his Dad, but Solstice day was usually just him and Regis staring at each other across the table in the King’s quarters over a traditional dinner provided by the kitchen staff before they left to join their own families. The quiet and a lack of festive feeling leaving much to be desired, no matter how much father and son cared about each other.

Now, sitting at the small dining table in his friends’ apartment, Noctis caught glimpses of what other people experienced during the Solstice. He knew his friends all had wildly different tastes in music at the best of times, but none of that mattered in light of the spirit of the season.  Ignis preferred the older, more jazz style carols. Prompto often teased the man for being old before his time, but Ignis only smiled and pulled the blond into his arms, causing the younger man to giggle as his partner danced him around the kitchen, all cooking on pause for a moment as they basked in each other’s presence.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas

Let your heart be light

Next year all our troubles will be out of sight.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas

Make the Yuletide gay

Next year all our troubles will be miles away.

Prompto himself was a fan of some acapella group based in Tenebrae. He had entire festive playlists devoted to them that played all through December. If Prom knew any traditional carols, it was because they’d covered it. If a pop star had put out a cover, better believe Prom’s playlist had it. He could often be seen shimmying along to it, oblivious to the appreciative stares of his boyfriends (and his Prince!), singing off key to his favourite Solstice songs.

Noctis was pretty sure Prom still believed in Santa Claus. The cute blond was a big subscriber to the idea of ‘just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it isn’t real!’ Prom believed in magic, and the season itself was all the more magical because of it.

You better watch out

You better not cry

You better not pout

I’m telling you why

Santa Claus is coming to town!

Gladio wasn’t a huge fan of carols in general. Raised much like Noct, Gladio had always been expected to attend services because Noctis was expected to. Gladio didn’t have the voice that Noctis did, so little was required of him other than his attendance, but he and Ignis had both stood by him every year since childhood, with Prom joining more recently even though he wasn’t required to.

Gladio’s favourite Solstice past time was curling up on the couch with the filthiest festive novel he could find, and Noct had often heard renditions of familiar tunes, played on the violin, lilting quietly through the big man’s phone. Eventually, Noctis recognised it as a popular contemporary  artist from Altissia who had made a name for herself with her stunning ability to dance and play her instrument simultaneously with practised ease. Still for all Gladio’s outward dislike of Solstice music, Noctis had still heard him belting out an all too familiar tune when he thought no one was listening, one even Noctis knew.

I just want you for my own

More than you could ever know

Make my wish come true

Baby, all I want for Christmas is you!

Noctis sighed to himself, causing Prompto & Ignis to pause in each other’s arms. “Everything all right, Highness?” Ignis asked.

Noctis winced internally. He hadn’t meant to pop their intimate bubble. He loved watching his friends be happy together, even as it hurt like hell. “Uh, yeah Iggy. S’all good.” He said lightly. “Just thinking about how much I’ve got going on before the service on Solstice Eve, and all the other engagements I’ve got going on in the meantime. I’m good though, really, please don’t let me interrupt.” 

But the moment had clearly passed. “Dinner is almost already, Noct, if you’d like to stay?” Ignis said, kissing Prompto’s temple and releasing him towards Noctis with a light pat to his ass. Prompto flushed and grinned at the contact but said “Yeah, dude! You should totally stay for dinner!”

Gladio chose that moment to put down his book and made his way towards them from the living room, wrapping his arms around Prompto and pressing a kiss to his lips before sauntering off to the kitchen in search of Ignis. Whatever he was reading must really be doing it for him, Noctis realised, and suddenly he’d never felt more like a fourth wheel. “Nah, I think I’ll go home and order takeout.” He replied, as nonchalantly as he could manage. He heard Ignis squawk indignantly from the kitchen. “You’ll do nothing of the sort!”  The advisor exclaimed. “I insist you stay!”

“Yeah, Princess.” Gladio rumbled from the doorframe. “You should definitely stay.” But Noct could see the way his eyes were hungrily tracking his boyfriends across the room.

Noctis was saved by the beeping of his phone. Checking it, he said “Ah, sorry. I really can’t now, Dad wants to see me.” He waved his phone in the air. “Besides, it seems like Gladio here has something on his mind that doesn’t involve food, and I’d really rather not be present for that.”

Fuck.

Noctis hoped that came across as teasing and not as bitter as it felt.

Gladio had the decency to look chagrined. “Princess, I…” He started, but Noctis cut him off with a breezy “Later!” and all but fled the apartment. In his haste, he didn’t hear Gladio say to the others. “There he goes again, running out the door like his ass is on fire. As if we wouldn’t have him if he wanted us.”

“Indeed. But he doesn’t.” Ignis reminded him “No matter how much we want him to be, he isn’t ours.”

“He could’ve been, if you’d let me ask him just now.” Gladio grumbled. 

Prompto wrapped his arms around himself, until he was wrapped in two other sets of arms instead. “He’s not interested in us, Gladdy.” The blond said sadly. “He’s with Lunafreya, after all.”

* * * * * 

Noctis made it to his Father’s study in record time. Anything to get away from the flirty mood in that apartment. 

“Ah, Noctis. Thank you for getting here so fast.” His Dad said with a smile.

“Uh, sure Dad.” Noctis returned his smile. 

“I hope I didn’t pull you away from anything important.” King Regis told his only child.

“Nah, I was just hanging out with the guys.”

“You don’t seem to be spending as much time with them recently.” Regis noted. “Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, Dad, it’s cool. It’s just kind of rough being around them sometimes now that they’re together.” Noct replied honestly.

“You don’t approve?” Regis asked.

“Oh, no. Nothing like that.” Noctis said hurriedly. “I’m happy for them, really I am. It’s just that…” He hesitated.

“You can tell me, I won’t judge you.” Regis assured him, eyes twinkling like he already knew what Noctis might tell him.

“It’s just that I wish I was a part of what they have.” Noct admitted. It was the first time he’d said it aloud, even to himself. “But they’re not interested in me like that so I’ll just keep being their friend.”

Clarus Amicitia made a surprised sound from where he stood at the King’s right shoulder. Noctis looked towards him, but the older man just shook his head, keeping his opinions to himself. Regis himself seemed to have no response to Noctis’ statement other than to reach out and pat his hand sympathetically. He had long known and accepted Noct’s preferences, and hoped that it would work out for him and his friends soon, although he couldn’t understand why it hadn’t already.

After a moment, Noct looked to his Dad. “As much as I appreciate the sympathetic ear, I’m pretty sure you didn’t get me up here to talk about my love life, or lack thereof.”

“Ah, of course. Sorry, my boy.” Regis exclaimed. “I actually called you to tell you that Lunafreya has arrived.”

“Really!?” Noct sat up straighter. “She’s early!”

“Indeed.” Regis said with a smile. “I took the liberty of having dinner for the two of you delivered to her rooms. She’s expecting you, and it seems like you could use a more… impartial friend right now.”

“Noct leapt to his feet immediately. “Yeah, thanks Dad!” He said, already heading for the door. At the last moment, he turned back towards his Father. The Crown Prince bowed to his King, a rare show of respect from son to Father, before racing back across the room, around Regis’ desk and launching himself into the King’s arms. “Love you, Dad.” He whispered.
“And I you, my boy.” Regis murmured back, returning his son’s hug, enjoying it while it lasted because far too soon Noctis was out the door and heading in the direction of the Royal quarters, where Luna always stayed when she visited Insomnia (at Noctis’ insistence).

When the door closed behind him, Regis turned to his Shield. “Care to share, Clarus?” He asked.

“I’m just a little confused.” Clarus admitted. “His Highness said that those three are not interested in him as he is in them. Only, I know for a fact Gladiolus is very much interested. All of them are. So I don’t understand why it is that His Highness is not a part of their relationship. The four of them have always been a seamless unit, it is illogical that Noctis is on the outside. I can only presume that something is holding them back.”

Regis frowned. “I wonder what it could be?” He mused.

“I will see what I can glean from Gladiolus next time I see him.” Clarus decided. 

“Thank you, Clar, that would be appreciated.” Regis acknowledged.

But still the King of Lucis frowned. He, for some reason, couldn’t shake the feeling that he was somehow responsible for this.

* * * * * 

Noctis all but ran towards Luna’s guest apartment, which was situated in the Royal Wing of the Citadel near Noctis’ own apartment. She was the only foreign dignitary that was afforded this privilege, due to her close friendship with the Crown Prince of Lucis, and Noctis was afforded the same privileges when he visited her in Tenebrae, much to Ravus’ disgust.

Unfortunately, heading towards the Royal Wing meant going back the way he’d come, past his three best friends’ living quarters. Even more unfortunate, Prompto happened to step outside as he was racing past. “Noct! You came back!” Prompto exclaimed with a grin. “Gladdy, Igster! Noct’s back!”  He called out before Noctis could stop him.

“Noct? Did you change your mind about joining us for dinner? There’s plenty to go around?” Ignis smiled at him as he stepped through the front door, seeming happy to see him.

“Welcome back, Princess.” Gladio mumbled from inside. “Now get in here and let Iggy make you a plate.”

Astrals, but this was painful. “Oh, uh, sorry guys. I was just passing through on my way to the Wing.  I’m actually having dinner with Luna. She got here early, so Dad organised an impromptu dinner for us to catch up.”

Prompto’s face fell, and Ignis adjusted his glasses in an attempt to mask his disappointed frown. Then Gladio popped his head out, his face like thunder. “Let him go then, you two. It’s clear he doesn’t want to spend time with us, so let Lunafreya have him.”

“Gladiolus!” Ignis admonished angrily, resting a hand lovingly on Prompto’s shoulder when the blond’s lip quivered. 

“What the fuck, Gladio?” Noctis snapped. “At no point did I say any of that. Don’t be putting words in my mouth!”

“You didn’t have to say it, Princess.” Gladio drawled, eyes like ice. “You’ve been avoiding spending time with us for months. If you’ve got a problem with our relationship, at least say it to our faces.”

“Gladio.” Ignis warned. Prompto said nothing, but Noctis could see him getting more and more upset. 

“I don’t have a problem with your relationship.” Noct replied, words aimed at Prompto as much as Gladio. 

The larger man snorted. “Sure, Princess, then what is your problem then?” He taunted, and Noctis snapped.

“My problem, asshole,” He snarled, “Is that I feel like a third… fourth wheel, all the fucking time! And all it does is remind me of how godsdamned lonely I am, and how I don’t have that for myself. So excuse me, Amicitia, if I, just this once, want to spend time with my one friend outside of you guys.” Gladio recoiled slightly at the use of his surname. Noctis sighed, the fight going out of him. “I love you guys, but I think I need some space for a bit after this. So I’m going to see Luna, and I’ll catch you guys in a few days, or whenever my schedule lets me.”

Noctis turned on his heel and left at a run, leaving the other three men staring silently after him.

Last Christmas

I gave you my heart

But the very next day, you gave it away.

This year, to save me from tears

I’ll give it to someone special.

By the time he reached Luna’s front door, Noctis was still fuming, holding tightly onto the tears that threatened to spill from his eyes. He knocked, and Lunafreya’s welcoming smile fell when she saw his face. “Noctis? What happened?” She ushered him inside, closing the door behind them before he fell into her arms and told her everything that had transpired between him and his friends. “Oh Noctis, I’m so sorry that happened. I know how much you care for them.” She looked down at him. “And how much they care for you.” she added gently.

“Just not the same way I care about them.” Noctis said glumly.

Luna wasn’t so sure about that, but Noctis didn’t want to hear it from her, and he wasn’t up to hearing it at all right now. He’d never believe her. “Come, the food is ready.” She said instead. “Why don’t we take to the living room and watch something that will rot our brains until Crowe comes to kick you out?”

Noctis smiled gratefully and followed her to the living room, helping her carry the food, plates and cutlery. As they watched some terrible late night Solstice movie, conversation turned to the carol service. “Ugh. It’s so boring, Luna!” Noctis bemoaned. “It’s the same boring songs every year and I’m tired of it.”

“Maybe we can find a way to bring at least a little something new.” Luna said thoughtfully.

Noctis lit up a little at the idea. “Yeah. Actually, I might have an idea about that. I’ve already set it in motion, will you help me?” He asked.

“Of course, Noct. Anything. Luna agreed immediately.

Crowe Altius chose that moment to enter the suite. “Stop trying to steal my girl, Your Highness.” She teased, causing Luna to giggle and Noct to stick his tongue out at her.

“I couldn’t if I tried, Crowe, and you know it.” Noctis said with a grin. Crowe was a Lucian Kingsglaive who had been assigned to the Princess of Tenebrae when she had first started visiting Insomnia with more frequency. It hadn’t taken long for the two young women to become involved, and King Regis had quietly assigned Crowe as a representative of the Glaive in Tenebrae, assigned to the Lucian Ambassador. Aiding in Luna’s happiness was something Noctis had always been grateful to his Father for.

Crowe bent and kissed the Princess of Tenebrae, a gentle press of lips that made Noctis jealous even as it made him smile. He rose to his feet. “I’ll get out of your way.” He said quietly, shaking his head when Luna made to protest. “Accompany me tomorrow?” He asked instead.

“Of course.” Luna returned his tired smile. “I’ll see you then.”

With a final wave for his friends, Noctis headed for the door and his own bed.

* * * * *

Clarus didn’t end up needing to ask Gladio about Prince Noctis. He was on his way to speak to his son when he heard shouting coming from the direction of the boys’ apartment. Recognising the Crown Prince’s voice, Clarus hung back out of sight until he heard Noctis’ footsteps leaving in a rush.

“Nice work, Gladiolus.” Clarus heard Ignis say, dry and sarcastic. Because of course it was his son who had let his temper get the better of him. “You’ve succeeded in pushing him further away.”

“I-I… Fuck!” Gladio growled, and Clarus heard the sound of his firstborn’s fist connecting with a wall. 

“I-I don’t understand.” The heaving sobs came from young Prompto. “Why is he saying that he’s lonely? Isn’t he with Luna?”

Clarus frowned. Noctis and Luna? That was news to him.

“Well, I suppose she isn’t here as often as either of them would like. I imagine being separated more often than not would be very lonely indeed.” Ignis said quietly.

“Fuck. I really fucked up this time.” Gladio rumbled, clearly angry at himself. “I’ll apologise to Noct tomorrow.”

“Well, you’ll have plenty of opportunities. He said when his schedule allows, but we’re to accompany him to one of his community engagements tomorrow.” Ignis said with a sigh. “But there’s nothing more we can do about it tonight. Come, Prom darling, let’s get back inside.”

Once their apartment door closed behind them, Clarus exited his hiding spot and went in search of Regis. Something wasn’t adding up.

He came to Regis’ study and rapped sharply on the door. “Come in, Clarus.” Regis called, and Clarus smiled despite the situation. Regis had an uncanny ability to know who was at the door or coming down the hallway simply by the sound of their footsteps. Just another truly endearing part of his best friend and King that made him who he was.

“How did it go with Gladiolus?” Regis asked. “Are we any the wiser?”

Clarus filled his friend in on what he had overheard, starting with the argument and ending with. “Did you broker a marriage with Tenebrae and forget to tell me? Because the three of them seem to be under the impression that Noctis and Lunafreya are together.”

Clarus watched as his King’s face went ghost white. “Oh fuck.” He murmured, and Clarus started at Regis’ rare use of a swear word. “It really is my fault they’re not together!”

“Come again?” Clarus said mildly.

Regis heaved a sigh, face buried in his hands. “A few years ago I approached Sylva about potentially securing an engagement between Noct and Luna. Sylva was amenable to the idea, so we began talks. Not long after, young Ignis came to me to advise me of their relationship, and I mentioned to him that I hoped that Noctis and Lunafreya would also find happiness together. In hindsight, Ignis was probably seeking permission for them to court Noct as much as he was advising his King of his relationship with the other members of the Prince’s retinue.” Regis let out another sight. “In any event, Lunafreya approached Sylva and I soon afterwards and explained that while she and Noct loved each other very much, neither of them were interested in the opposite gender and would be miserable stuck in marriage. Sylva and I Iet it go and Lunafreya has been with Crowe Altius ever since. I guess that given negotiations never made it any further, and Noct was never made aware, the boys have never realised that Noctis isn’t involved with Lunafreya, and it never occurred to me to tell them as much.”

“Surely they know about Crowe?” Clarus said. “Surely they know Noctis prefers boys?”

“They keep it quiet. Only Noctis, Ulric, Ostium and Khara are aware, to my knowledge. And the Fleurets' of course.” Regis replied. “And I’m assuming they do know that Noct likes boys, or that he likes both and chose Luna.”

“Even if they’re aware of His Highness’ preferences, they may have just assumed the arrangement went ahead and that Noctis is simply unattainable.” Clarus surmised.

“Essentially, yes.” Regis confirmed. “Although I’d bet every last gil I had that they think it’s a love match. Noct and Luna are… affectionate. Their closeness could easily be seen as romantic to those unaware.”

“So how do we fix it?” Clarus asked his King.

Regis groaned, fingers running roughly through his hair. “We alert Lunafreya, I think.” He said finally. “I think a pair of old men interfering any further will probably just upset and embarrass them.”
Clarus grinned. “Coward.” He accused. “You just want to avoid having to be the one to tell Noctis it’s your fault he doesn’t have three boyfriends right now.”

Regis grinned back weakly, expression rueful. “Well, that too!”

* * * * * *

Ignis was both surprised and not surprised to see Nyx Ulric waiting with Noctis the following morning. The pair were chatting amiably with each other while they waited for the rest of their entourage for the day to arrive. Beside him, Gladio growled under his breath at the sight of the Glaive by Noctis’ side. “I’m not sure why you’re so shocked, Gladio. After last night, I’m amazed we were still invited to accompany him at all.” The advisor told his lover.

Gladio’s face fell. He felt terrible for losing his temper with Noctis the night before. All three of them had felt the tensions rising between them and their Prince, and yet none of them were sure why it was happening.

Lunafreya arrived then, and Ignis was startled to see a dark look gracing her fair features. It was unlike the Princess to be visibly upset or angry. It soon became quite clear to them that her ire was aimed directly at them. “Awww man!” Prompto whined quietly, a distressed look on his face. “I don’t want Luna to be mad at us too!” Ignis rested a comforting hand on his younger lover’s shoulder. He knew how much Luna’s friendship meant to Prompto.

Now that the Princess of Tenebrae and her guard, Crowe Altius, had arrived, they could be on their way. Today’s outing was a visit to the Government funded orphanage in Little Galhad. It was one of the few causes that Noctis willingly and happily took an interest in, and had actually volunteered to oversee some years ago. This wasn’t their first trip to the orphanage this season, but it was the last before Noctis would become too busy with his royal duties. The Prince did his best to visit as often as his schedule would permit, but had never failed to show at Solstice, presents for the children practically tumbling out of the cavalcade of trucks accompanying them, usually paid for by Noctis himself out of his own private funds. Noct had always been good with kids. It was one of the many things Ignis, Gladio and Prompto loved about him. 

And the kids loved him too. They swarmed him as soon as they spotted him, and down he went, laughing as he disappeared under a pile of excited children. The teachers, long used to this by now, looked torn between horrified and amused as they tried to valiantly reign in their enthusiastic charges as Luna, giggling, assured them that no, Noctis didn’t mind at all, and he did in fact absolutely love it. The fact that the children didn’t care that he was the Crown Prince of Lucis was a large part of the appeal.

Eventually, a laughing Nyx waded in and disengaged Noctis so that the presents could be handed out. Ignis watched curiously as Lunafreya engaged the Headmistress in conversation. What was going on there? He wondered.

Gleefully, Noctis began handing out gifts to the children. Prompto sighed wistfully, watching the dark haired man balance a baby on his hip, smiling at her as he helped her unwrap a present. Ignis understood the blond’s sentiment. Something about Noct holding a baby, breathing in the scent of the tiny girl’s hair, was incredibly appealing.

As if he had heard him, Noct looked up and met Prompto’s eyes. Tentatively, he smiled and jerked his head, silently offering for the blond to join him.

“Hell yes!” Prompto whispered, elated, and all but ran over to help.

“Well, at least he’s not angry at Prom.” Gladio said softly. “I’m the only one shooting my mouth off, I’m the one who should deal with the consequences.”

“I still wouldn’t expect to see him in our home for a while.” Ignis replied. “He said he needed space. We need to respect that and give it to him.” 

Gladio sighed but nodded reluctantly. “He never could stay mad at Prom.” He said with a small smile.

‘If only the same could be said for us!’ Ignis thought to himself.

Once all the gifts were handed out, Noctis and Lunafreya shook the Headmistress’ hand and bid farewell to the children. Noctis wrapped an arm around Luna’s shoulders, and she smiled and kissed his cheek before they led the group back out to their cars. Ignis frowned to himself when Noctis, Lunafreya and Nyx once again climbed into a separate car, Noct sparing Prompto a small, sad smile as he rejoined Ignis and Gladio, who snarled under his breath. “Easy, big guy. Nyx will look after him. Nyx will look after him.” Prompto slipped his hand into the taller man’s. 

“I know.” Gladio growled. “But it’s my job to protect him. Our job. It chafes to not be the one with him.”

Ignis hummed in agreement. “In more ways than one.” He murmured, and gestured his loves into their car.

They’re singing Deck the Halls

But it’s not like Christmas at all

‘Cause I remember when you were near

And all the fun we had last year.

The group arrived back at the Citadel without incident, and the Prince’s guards began to disperse to attend to their other duties. Ignis, Gladio and Prompto hung back to see if Noctis required them, but other than another tentative smile for Prompto, Noctis turned to Lunafreya and spoke briefly before kissing her hand, clasped in his, before releasing her and leaving with Nyx in tow. The three men felt the dismissal keenly.

“Let’s go.” Ignis said, trying valiantly to hold both himself and the others together. “I’m sure we all have other matters to attend to.”

“Actually gentlemen, I’d like a word if I may?” Lunafreya’s voice stopped them. They froze, her voice a hair colder than they usually experienced from her. The three of them bowed and followed the Princess. “Ignis, might there be an appropriate place for us to talk privately?” She asked the advisor.

“Would our home suffice, Your Highness?” Ignis enquired, trying to appear less flustered than he was.

“Lovely. That will do nicely.” Luna agreed. The rest of the trip to their apartment was made in silence. No one spoke until Lunafreya was settled in their living room with a cup of tea set before her. Crowe settled herself against the wall behind their sofa.

“It has been brought to my attention,” The Princess said, calmly sipping at her tea. “That you have all been operating under a gross misunderstanding.”

“Forgive me, but I don’t understand.” Ignis said.

“Regarding Noctis.” Lunafreya told them, and the three men sat up straighter. “While it seems that King Regis is largely responsible for this mess, however unintentionally, some of the blame falls to you as well, since none of you appear to have ever bothered to get confirmation. And I include dear Noctis in that to a degree too.”

“What are you talking about, Luna?” Prompto asked. Lunafreya smiled gently at him. She had had a soft spot for Prompto ever since he had rescued her dog, Pryna, when he was a child.

“Noctis and I are not engaged.” She told them flatly. “It was discussed a few years ago, but ultimately neither of us are interested in the opposite sex, so the matter was dropped.”

The three men sat in stunned silence, “I don’t understand.” Ignis said again, faintly. “The way you two are around each other…”

Luna sighed. “I suppose I can see how our affection could be seen that way.” She admitted. “It would not be the first time our care for each other has been misconstrued.” She glanced sideways at the woman behind her as Crowe coughed sheepishly. “I love Noctis like another brother, sometimes more than my actual brother. We are not engaged. We are not dating.” She said bluntly. The three of them stared at her still.

“Of for - “ Crowe stepped away from her position at Luna’s back. She rounded the sofa and pulled the Princess into a kiss, the kind of kiss that had their audience blushing. Crowe pulled back, Luna hanging breathless in her arms. “She’s with me, you morons. Now, I suggest you get off your asses, go and find His Highness, and fix this ridiculous situation you’re in!”

Crowe grinned down at Luna as all three men leapt to their feet and dashed for the door, Prompto in the lead. “We’ll just let ourselves out then, shall we?” She murmured, and Luna giggled, linking her arm with Crowe’s as they left the boys’ apartment for their own quarters.

* * * * * 

“How the fuck did we never know this!?” Gladio growled as he and the others raced towards Noctis’ rooms.

“We never questioned what the King told to me.” Ignis replied. “Noct and Luna have always been close, the way they are around each other can easily be seen as romantic.”

“It doesn’t matter now!” Prompto exclaimed, “Let’s just get to him and tell him how much we need him!” The blond ran faster, the others right behind him.

They skidded to a halt at the Prince’s front door. “Do we knock? Or just go in?” Prompto asked, suddenly nervous.

The question was answered by Noctis opening the door. Caught in a stare, he said “Uh, Luna texted me and said I should open my door, did you guys need some - oof!” Noctis was cut off as Prompto launched himself at his best friend, wrapping himself around him and connecting their lips in a hard, searing kiss. “Prom, what - ?”

“I love you!” Prompto mumbled into the kiss. “We love you, and we’re complete morons, but we’ve always loved you.”

Noctis froze, and Prompto broke the kiss and made to break away, suddenly frightened. Noctis gripped the blond tightly, keeping him in place even as he frowned, confused. “Why now, all of a sudden?” He asked, suspicious, and all three of his friends flushed scarlet. “Explain.” The Prince ordered.

Ignis cleared his throat. “We’ve been operating under the apparently false assumption that you and Lunafreya were together, engaged even.” He quickly explained everything from his own conversation with the King to Luna confronting them not ten minutes previous.

Noctis was silent for a terrifyingly long time, his mouth opening and closing several times, like a fish caught on one of his hooks. Finally, his expression darkened and he ran his fingers through his hair. “I’ll be right back.” he growled and stomped towards the door. He wrenched it open, paused, then whirled back around. “Do. Not. Move.” He ordered, and charged out of the door. The three men looked at each other in confusion until they heard a furious shout of “DAD!” coming from down the hallway. All three of them raced for the still open door, peering around it as though stacked on top of each other. They watched as a sheepish Regis answered his son’s angry bellow, and the hushed but furious conversation that followed. The King appeared apologetic and regretful as he tried to placate his son. Soon, the conversation ended with father and son embracing and Noctis turning to return to his suite. Spotting them crowded there by the door, the Prince yelled “I thought I told you not to move!” Prompto yelped and scrambled back inside, Gladio right behind him. Ignis followed at a more sedate pace, catching the mischievous twinkle in Noct’s eyes and the small, apologetic bow of King Regis’ head in his direction, a gesture which Ignis returned as they shared a rueful smile.

Closing the door behind them, Noctis turned and glared at them, though there was little heat to it now. “Let me make this very clear, just in case you three dumbasses need to hear it one more time. Luna and I have never been a thing. I didn’t even know there were any engagement plans in the works, and if I had, I would’ve refused anyway because unfortunately, I’m in love with these three idiots that I know.”

“We didn’t know.” Prompto said breathlessly. “If we had we…”

“Yeah, I know.” Noctis replied. “And I just thought you didn’t want me, so I kept my mouth shut. Turns out we’re all idiots.”

“We’re going to have to get better at this whole communication thing.” Gladio said with a wry grin.

“How’s this for communication, then?” Noctis growled, and yanked the larger man down into a kiss. Not wasting a second, Gladio wrapped his hands around the Prince’s waist and hauled him closer, until their bodies were pressed tightly together. Their kiss only broke when the need for air became too apparent. “I’m sorry.” Gladio rasped. “For everything I said yesterday.”

Noctis reached up and cupped the older man’s cheek. “I know. Me too.”

Unwilling to wait any longer, Ignis took a step forward. Smiling widely, Gladio touched Noctis’ hand on his cheek before turning him in his arms to meet Ignis’ lips on his. Ignis’ hand tangled in Noct’s dark hair, their breath mingling as the Prince’s hands clutched at Gladio’s arms around his waist.

Mouth still fused with Ignis’, Noctis moved an arm from Gladio, reaching for where he knew Prompto was. The blond came willingly, moaning slightly when Noctis pulled away from Ignis to catch his mouth with his, his Prince’s tongue tangling with his as this time Noctis returned his kiss.

For Noct himself, it felt like he could breathe again for the first time in years. At last, after all this time wanting and wishing, he finally knew they loved him back.

Disentangling himself from his three protesting loves, he grinned and pulled Prompto towards his bedroom. Entwining their fingers together, he looked back at the other two men, who were eyeing them hungrily. “Well, are you coming or not?”

The resulting scramble made him throw his head back and laugh.

Much, much later, when a naked and sated Noctis lay sprawled across his equally naked chest, Ignis asked “Are you and Luna organising something with the orphanage? I saw Luna talking to the headmistress.”

Noctis lifted his head and grinned. “You’ll just have to wait and see.” he said cheekily.

“Awww c’mon dude! Now you’ve gotta tell us!” An equally naked Prompto whined from his position wrapped in Gladio’s arms, the bigger man’s chin hooked over his shoulder. While their more vigorous activities had come to an end, Noctis was hyper aware of the fact that Prompto and Gladio were still intimately connected, evidenced by the tiniest rolls of Gladio’s hips against the small blond and Prompto’s slightly hitched breaths.

“Nah,” Noctis laughed, shivering deliciously as Ignis mouthed at his already mauled neck. “I think you’ll survive, you’ll just have to come to the carol service. I promise it’ll be worth the wait.”

“Well now I am truly intrigued.” Ignis murmured between kisses. Prompto reached out and twined his fingers with Noct’s, kissing them tenderly even as Gladio picked up his pace, shaking a soft moan out of the blond.

“I’m still not telling you.” Noctis breathed.

Ignis chuckled darkly. “Perhaps not, but we shall certainly have fun trying to convince you.”

Noctis huffed a laugh. “Do your worst.” he dared, and there was no more talking for quite some time.

* * * * * *

The Cathedral dedicated to the Astrals was packed full of Lucian nobility, young and old. The older generation took in the spectacle with their typical solemnity, while the younger generations seemed more interested in catching a glimpse of Prince Noctis and Lady Lunafreya than the solstice tradition.

“It’s nearly Noct’s turn.” Gladio murmured.

“Indeed.” Ignis replied softly. “We shall finally find out what he and Luna have been planning.”

“Can’t wait!” Prompto grinned.

King Regis rose from his seat on the dais, reaching out beside him to clasp Luna’s hand briefly and pat Noctis on the shoulder. He approached the podium laid out for him, slightly to the side of where the clerics and priests of the Astrals had been leading the service.

“My fellow Lucians, my friends.” He began. “As our traditional night of celebration comes to an end I, as always, leave it to my son, Crown Prince Noctis, to close us out. This year we are lucky to have Princess Lunafreya of Tenebrae to join him in our final carols of the evening.”

Noctis grinned and offered a hand to Luna, who smiled back as she accepted, both of them rising gracefully to their feet. Regis raised an eyebrow as he caught the mischievous glint in his son’s eyes as he passed his father on his way up to the podium. As his son grinned at him, Regis wondered what he could be up to this time, and sent up a quick prayer that no one would be too offended by whatever it was his son had in mind. He knew Noctis didn’t usually take much joy in his role in this dog and pony show, so the smile was indicative of his son… planning something.

The crowd murmured when Noct laid a kiss on Luna’s hand before they separated, Noctis heading to the podium while Luna made towards a side door and stood there, waiting, smiling.

“My lords and ladies.” Noctis smiled (a little wickedly, Regis noted with a wince). “We, as always, thank you for your presence here tonight. Tonight, Lady Lunafreya and I have something special planned for the conclusion of tonight’s festivities. I would ask you to please welcome the children of the Little Glahad Orphanage, to sing for you something they have been working on.”

Ignis, Prompto and Gladio’s faces bloomed into wide grins even as the rest of the congregation murmured in surprise and some in disapproval. Ignis barely refrained from rolling his eyes. The older generation of Lucian nobles did not like to be reminded that poverty, or immigrants for that matter, existed in their glowing city.

The door Luna stood by opened, and she smiled as she took the hand of an older child and shepherded them towards Noctis. One of the teachers from the orphanage accompanied them, carrying the little girl that Noct had been so taken with at the orphanage. When she saw Noctis, the baby’s face lit up in a bright grin, and she made instant grabby hands at the Crown Prince, who immediately took her from the teacher and balanced her on his hip, cuddling her close even as he greeted the other children. More whispers threaded through the congregation. Even Regis raised an eyebrow. This was a side of his son that he had not seen before. Out of the corner of his eye, he spotted the looks of adoration on the faces of his son’s best friends turned lovers. He wondered if he might not soon have a new granddaughter in his life. The idea made him smile.

Noctis and Luna gently herded the children to the front of the Cathedral, encouraging them to sit together on the steps leading up to the podium and dais. They sat at different levels, around Luna and Noctis, who smiled encouragingly as the music started. The baby, now sitting in Noctis’ lap, babbled happily as the children settled. The two adults held microphones, but did not sing into them as they led the children in the opening verse.

Away in a manger

No crib for a bed

The little Lord Jesus

Laid down his sweet head

The children, smiling up at Noctis and Luna, who smiled back at them with pride, leant on each other as Lunafreya lifted her microphone and continued on.

Away in a manger

No crib for a bed

The little Lord Jesus

Laid down his sweet head

The stars in the bright sky

Looked down where he lay

The little Lord Jesus

Asleep on the hay.

Noctis stayed quiet, helping the children through the remainder of the song until its conclusion. At the end, the congregation clapped with far more enthusiasm than he anticipated, and he hoped that it would perhaps result in some good luck for some of the children of the orphanage.

Grinning widely at the children, he and Luna ushered them to some pews in front of Gladio, Ignis and Prompto. With a smile, he handed his little limpet, the baby girl, to Ignis (much to his surprise) before turning back to the front of the Cathedral to join Luna.

“My Lords and Ladies, to close out our evening, please enjoy one final song from Lady Lunafreya and I.” Noctis said, again with that smile that told Regis that something decidedly untraditional was about to occur. 

The soft look on Noctis’ face as he gazed at this young woman who understood him better than any other human on Eos caused a hush to fall over the audience. Soft piano music began to play, a non-traditional take on a traditional song.

The first Noel, the angels did say

Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay

In fields where they lay keeping their sheep

On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

Noel, noel, noel, noel

Born is the king of Israel.

The pair harmonised beautifully, a sound unlike anything Regis, nor anyone else who the Prince, had ever heard before. It was well known to those who knew him that Noctis despised this event, and while it never showed on his face, he had never shone so brightly as he did right now singing this arrangement with Lady Lunafreya. Both glowed with a light that seemed to be contagious, spreading warmth throughout even the most cantankerous lord present.

Noel, noel, noel, noel!

Born is the king (born is the king)

Born is the king of Israel!

Born is the king of Israel.

As the final strains of the song dissipated into the air, the crowd was quiet for a beat, before heartfelt applause was heard throughout the rafters of the Cathedral. Noctis hugged Luna with a smile, and thought to himself that if the Carol service could be like this every year, perhaps he might begin to enjoy it a little more.

The service now complete, the congregation of lords and ladies of Insomnia milled around, socialising and smiling in the warmth and good cheer of the season. Noctis noted with a smile that several of the younger married couples had approached the Headmistress of the orphanage. He knew that some of those couples had struggled to have children of their own. It gave him hope to see that the children might actually benefit from his plan, even if he had originally only set out to rattle the older generation by having the children there. It did them well to remind them that those less fortunate than themselves did exist, and that they were people too.

He kissed Luna’s cheek as she went to join Crowe, before turning to beam at his lovers as they approached him. His heart thumped as he took in Ignis, staring besotted at the little girl that Noct had placed in his arms. His smile widened as he watched Gladio pluck her from Ignis for a turn with her. Hearing her giggle as she tugged his beard was the best feeling in the world, his heart melting when Prompto ran a hand through her curls.

He approached them, accepting a kiss from each of them before tweaking the little girl’s nose, making her squeal joyfully. “Hi there, Aelia, are you being good for these doofuses?” he asked her, and she laughed again.

“Aelia? Her name is Aelia?” Ignis asked. 

Noct nodded. “Yeah, I think she’s about 18 months old or so.” He replied. “Her mother passed having her, no Dad that they could locate.”

“She’s the most beautiful girl, aren’t you sweetheart?” Gladio cooed at her, and Prom snickered at him, although his eyes were starry with affection. There was nothing better than seeing the big guy so affectionate with the tiny girl.

The headmistress approached them. “I want to thank you, Your Highness.” She said with a bow of her head. “Thanks to you we have been inundated with inquiries regarding the children. It seems our ranks will be thinner come the New Year, and I am most grateful.”

“I am glad.” Noctis said. “Honestly, I just wanted to shake things up a bit, but I am happy to hear that this has helped you.”

“Even if some of the people I spoke to choose not to adopt one of the children, at the very least it seems that our list of donors may grow, which is a help in and of itself.” The Headmistress agreed. “But it is time for us to go, it is late, and the children need their beds.” She reached to take Aelia from Gladio, who instinctively clutched her tighter.

“Ah. I see.” She said with a smile, looking at each of them individually. “I cannot say that I am surprised, Your Highness. You have always been particularly fond of Aelia. She looked over their shoulders and spotted King Regis, watching with amusement and curiosity. “It is most unusual, but perhaps she should spend the night with you, and we can discuss things further tomorrow?”

“I think that is a most welcome idea.” Ignis said immediately, ignoring the King’s stifled chuckle behind them. “We look forward to speaking to you then, Headmistress.” He steered his loves and the little girl away from the crowds and out to their waiting car. Ignoring the amused looks of the Headmistress and the King.

“Drive carefully Iggy,” Gladio said gruffly. “We have precious cargo tonight.” 

“But of course, my love.” Ignis replied. “We will have to organise a car seat for her, amongst other things.” He muttered to himself.

“We’re really doing this then?” Prompto asked. “Keeping her?”

“Looks like it.” Noctis replied with a smile, taking the blond’s hand. “You okay with that?”

“Yeah.” Prompto smiled. “It should feel too soon, but it doesn’t. She’s perfect.”

“The best solstice gift we could’ve asked for.” Gladio grinned. “Aside from you, Noct.”

Noctis blushed. “I love you. All of you.” He murmured, leaning against Prompto as they watched their new daughter doze off in Gladio’s arms.

“And we love you too.” Ignis answered for all of them. “More than you could ever imagine.”

They arrived home to a crib set up in their bedroom, a note from King Regis attached to it:

May it serve my granddaughter as well as it did my son. - R

The four of them laid her safely inside, before curling tiredly together into the bed. As they fell asleep, too exhausted to do more than kiss each other goodnight, they knew they would wake to find their lives changed once more, in the best way possible.

May your heart be evergreen every December

And a part of you believe and always remember

That sugarplums dance

And reindeer fly

And Santa always reads your letters

And may you stay a kid on christmas 

Forever!