[Ignis couldn't help the fact that he'd been so vocal about Nyx's living conditions. He couldn't help but be vaguely horrified, in a not-so-small respect, about the fact that a Glaive- of all people- lived in such a way.
His interest, when he was busy already and didn't have to be interested besides that, had originally been because of the king. A few months ago, he'd actually seen the king for the first time in perhaps a year as he passed in the Citadel, and had found it difficult to recognize the man. He was now entirely grey, lined and wrinkled- walked with a stick beside that, and seemed like he was frailer than a man 30 years older than his 50 years should have any right to be.
It was the Wall, he knew it- but he'd had to stay silent about it as Regis had looked to him at the meeting, and asked how Noctis was. Regis was not even close to being his father. Ignis would not have even half the audacity it would require to see him as anything close- yet actions spoke for themselves. He had been raised alongside Noctis since he was a child, never far away. And of course he'd cared for the man. Proximity had dictated that. The fact he'd been so young had dictated that. Ignis had found himself scared, uncharacteristically so, by the sight of him now. It'd brought forward what he'd always considered far, far away- that Regis would die, and that Noctis would have to allow the Crystal to siphon his own life away instead.
Stating anything but what Regis had asked for was unthinkable. But he had to do something. Although he couldn't do anything for him directly, had decided that he'd add favours for the Kingsglaive to his list of things to do. It made sense, at least at the time. If he could do what he could for them, they'd have more time to focus on their task- the king- without distraction. If he helped them, they could better help him.
And then there was Nyx.
What had started as odd favours here and there- carrying written letters, supplying the occasional drink while passing- even questioning why exactly such a capable soldier was placed on gate duty quite so much in council meetings had changed- mostly due to the fact Nyx had actually helped him with training. That, and he wasn't as unapproachable as most Glaives. Professional, of course, but he seemed kind as well.
It was for that reason he'd actually visited him, with another handful of letters, and actually seen his living conditions.
And for that reason he'd met him, here, just shy of the main fountain plaza in his own car- not even slightly as impressive as Noctis' own- but still a distinctive step above other things on the road. He pulls over by the fountain, exiting the car and checked his phone- going through no small number of work-related emails as he waited.]
[ With a car like that it isn't hard to find Ignis, and Nyx can't help but think this is one of the main perks of involving himself with people close to the royal family, nice cars. ]
Good morning. [ He calls politely to get his attention away from the small screen. Nyx himself has a phone for work reasons, but he never really does much with it other than texting, it's not something he grew up with like the Insomnia kids did and so he never understood how some people can be glued to theirs.
Today he's dressed in casual clothes, since walking about in his Kingsglaive garb at Ikea would attract too much attention, he's sure. But casual with Nyx doesn't mean baggy, it means tight shirts showing of his chest. Whether he does this on purpose or not is up to interpretation.
He gestures at the car. ]
You think the flatpacks'll fit in this? Because I've heard many legends that one does not simply walk into Ikea without coming back out with a car full of stuff they didn't came for.
i will! aside from her comments on books. that's just wrong.
[Nice cars indeed. While his certainly wasn't half as flashy as Noctis' own, or as stately as anything like the Regalia, he still (silently) found himself grateful that after driving those things, he'd not been expected to go back to anything commercially available. Because that... would more than likely be impossible, all considered.
He raises his head when Nyx calls, placing his phone in his jacket pocket and looking to him. He's not unguarded enough- even now- to be taken aback at the way Nyx looked as a person and not a Glaive- but it is surprising to see anything but black on him. Surprised or not, he smiles.]
I do hope so. With all respect, I imagine we'll have to purchase quite a few things in order to make your apartment comfortable.
[Small pause.]
If you've read back through our message history, you'll understand. But I feel like I should apologize for what I said. In person.
[Smaller pause.]
So, I apologize. It was not my intention to walk in on you. Or to insult you.
[ Nyx, for a moment, considers playing along and making him apologize over and over until he decides it's enough, but then he's reminded of last night and he doesn't feel like it anymore. ]
I'm sorry you had to come in and see that. I assure you it's not something that happens every week. You were... really unlucky with your timing. So please stop apologizing.
[ Somehow he's not so keen on Ignis thinking he's constantly handcuffing men to his bed, he's not like this, only rarely, really. ]
And I guess my room could do with an extra cabinet or two. It's good you shook me awake about that, because I realized I should make it feel more like a home.
[Thank goodness. That's something that even delicious Ikea food isn't worth. He slips around the car to the driver's side, and enters, indicating that Nyx could do the same on the passenger.
...Sorry Nyx. Only Noct gets the door opened for him.]
Fair point. Ah- let's not mention the gentleman. It's your prerogative for what you do in your spare time. You needn't explain.
[As he settles into the seat, fastens his seatbelt, takes the handbrake off, checks the mirrors, waits for Nyx to be in and settled, checks the mirrors again, starts the engine, and sets off, he tilts his head, slightly, his fingers drumming faintly on the gearstick before he changes gear.]
It's not my place to state what you should, or you should not do. But I can't help but find it odd, that you've been here for such a long time now, and not made an attempt to make that place better for yourself. By all means, tell me not to inquire further if you wish. But I do find it curious. It can't be comfortable.
[ Honestly Nyx would be very confused since he considers himself the number one gentleman in Insomnia, people holding open doors for him would be unsettling.
So he does take care of his own door and seatbelt, thank you.
Ignis' questions make him knit his eyebrows together for a few seconds, it's indeed a sensitive subject. But it seems easier to open up to Ignis. He couldn't do the same to the other Glaives, because most of them shared his same pain, so talking about it only seemed like attention seeking. But Ignis? He was an outsider, so it was more like explaining than complaining if he told him. ]
It did the job, you know. I moved in when I first came to the city, got the first place I could afford. I didn't mind it being small because I figured it would be temporary, I honestly thought I'd be back home by now. I thought all this trouble would be over, but... It was naive of me. The years went by far quicker than I realized.
[ He hesitates the next part, so there's a pause where his mouth just hangs open. ]
Your next question will be why I don't move, as if the king doesn't pay me enough, right? Well thing is, I still have family back home, and they need me, so anything I can spare of my wages goes to them. I don't expect you to understand, but it would be selfish to move to a more expensive place.
[The number one gentleman that will one day rescue a princess! Though nobody knows that yet. Not even Ignis. There's barely a sound from him as Nyx speaks, save for changing gear again as he joins a freeway- and the sound of the engine accelerating. Once he's comfortably traveling at speed, he lays off the gas. And he speaks- eyes still on the road.]
I understand the latter well enough. I was moved here to live with my uncle while I was prepared for my role. The Citadel shortly after that. He tells me that he does similar things with his wage.
[He states it matter-of-factly. And he is brisk about it. Because unlike Nyx, he doesn't have the attachment- even the memory- of life before the Citadel. He was too young to. The sterile environment, expressionless statues, and the urban, neon sprawl of the outside was all he'd remembered... and likewise, all he wanted.]
Regardless, whether you're here for another year or another ten, it's irresponsible to live in a manner where you're wrestling with things for the sake of sleeping. Not to the Crown, not to your family. But for you. Would they be content to see you as you are?
I assume they do considering they're all he has in that room besides a tiny tv.
[ Nyx is not quite sure what to make of Ignis' statement, the tone alone of it... Ignis is a strange person to him sometimes. ]
I... ah. [ Again lost for words. He isn't used to thinking about himself. He would literally rather throw himself at a daemon to save someone than think of his own life, after all.
And still, it's only a room, it doesn't seem important. His family will be fine with how he lives because he'll never tell them. That's the way Nyx works. No grudges, no complaints. ]
I wouldn't be in this car if I didn't want to change it. No need to still convince me. Although you do seem awfully invested in my well being.
thank every book for the joy it has given you with a huge bookcase, nyx
[If Nyx thinks anything, it might not do him any good to know that Ignis might just pick up on it. Brisk exterior regarding blood ties aside, he's a rather attentive sort!]
You serve the Crown. Beside that, you've helped me on a personal level with my training. Should I not be?
[He overtakes a van.]
If attempting to repay you is starting to concern you, you need only say. I thought something like this more effectual than coffee. Particularly as you don't seem like you have a car yourself.
[Every spare gil going to family, and all. He overtakes another few cars, before shifting into another lane.]
The Crown will be grateful you provide me with splendid Swedish furniture. Am I the only lucky Glaive or should I warn the others you're going to be doing rounds?
[ He's trying to lift the spirits here, he's very grateful with being repaid, really, so they might as well make this shopping trip fun. ]
Also, nothing wrong with walking. [ Or warping, he wants to joke, but he's afraid to offend him by making such easy use of the king's magic. ]
[ And there it already dooms up, the giant blue box that is Ikea. Even here in Insomnia it stands out like nothing else. ]
So, I was thinking I would like a bookcase at least, and they sell drying racks, right? One I can fold up if I don't need it. And I do want to have a look at the beds as well.
I doubt that on both counts. Most wouldn't entertain the thought of spending a day with someone of lower rank, let alone while doing something like furniture shopping.
[Sadly, He's hardly going to repeat that a lot of this is because he still feels he owes him from training, but the joviality isn't lost on him. He responds dryly, with only a flicker of amusement in his eyes- but it's there.
He says nothing about the comment about walking. Even if it was amusing to think of the other lugging whatever he'd got back with him. The amusement is only fleeting, though. He's serious again at the mention of what exactly Nyx hopes to get from this. ]
I believe so. I trust you've taken the adequate measurements?
Lower rank? [ Nyx, in fact, snorts at that. ] First of all I'm not in uniform, and even if I was I wouldn't care. You'll get a sir out of me if you're a captain or something, but that's about it. We're all simply men, rank makes no difference as long as you're a good person. I don't know if the others would care about ranks like this, but if they did I'd definitely have a word with them.
[ When did he get defensive of Ignis? Probably when he realized what a good guy he was, because really, he's taking him furniture shopping! He's amazing. ]
Did my best on them, even made a little drawing. [ He pulls it from his pocket to show, a small sketch of his place with some numbers scribbled here and there. Very responsible. ] I think I might have the room for a small double bed. But it has to be one you can handcuff someone to. [ He glances at Ignis as he says it, because he has decided on a side mission today, to make him laugh or at least have an amused smile grace his lips. ]
[He flicks his eyes to Nyx at the comment about rank- and then turns them back to the windowscreen. The comment is open. Far more open, far more frank than what most would willingly share. But Nyx wasn't most people. He seemed very much an entity unto himself, verbose- but not foolish with how much he shared.
As he pulls into a parking spot, he switches off the engine and accepts the drawing, eyeing it. Quite accurate. The fact he'd actually added in actual measurements to each wall would save them quite a deal of trouble.]
I must admit, I was slightly concerned that what you had taken down would be unusable. [Perhaps he'd spent a little too much time with Noctis- who, while certainly not an idiot or anything close, simply didn't have to be practical.] I'm relieved to see that is not the case. These will help us quite a lot.
[And at the commend about the bed, he can't help but linger, folding his hands on his lap after he unclips his seatbelt.]
You might prefer to invest in something for over your bed. It's much more fun.
What, you think they don't teach geometry in Galahd? [ He may not have been some miracle student, but he never had any problems with numbers and distances. He couldn't help but be quick to question Ignis' judgement either, because quite a few Insomnians liked to look at them and think of them as savages. You know, running around naked in the forest, eating things that were barely dead.
But he doesn't want to pick a fight, just, had to get it out. So he snorts and shakes his head as he takes off his seatbelt, ready to get out, but stops to look at Ignis again. ]
...What kind of something are we talking about here? You seem oddly experienced.
It's nothing to do with where you're from. Merely the fact that if I had of asked Noct to make a diagram, it would be considerably worse.
[And needless to say, he doesn't really get much time with people other than him. He moves his eyes away, sighing faintly as he moves to open his door. Awkward? Yes. But he understands, at least vaguely, the bias against the refugees. Crown City inhabitants, at large, do tend to look at anyone from beyond the wall as quite... less.
Which is a good reason why there's so many protests, and why things in the city are far from peaceful. He brings his eyes back to Nyx at the question, pausing.]
If you're taken with ensuring your [victim?] ...lover is incapable of movement, there are places that sell things which can be attached to your ceiling for usage. They're quite discreet when not being used as well. You might find it an alternative for when you tire of the headboard.
That's why the prince has you. [ Not so much picking on Noctis personally, he's too cute to be forced to do maths, that's something Nyx agrees on. Plus he respects the king a great deal, and by extent, his son. ] And since you're only my fairy god mother, I do my own drawings.
[ He gets out of the car too, and together they walk inside the building to the escalators as Nyx hopes his ears don't look as hot as they feel. ] I, er... don't think I need that sort of thing. Pretty sure I'm more of a classical guy. But they don't sell those things here, do they?
[ And as they reach the top of the escalator, there's already entire (but tiny) living rooms on display. Nyx finds himself staring at the set up, because to be honest he has never been inside a real furniture shop. Most of his stuff comes from places selling second hand things or from friends. ] You'd think someone lives here...
You'd be quite surprised. Academically, Noct is quite studious. It's practical application that he tends to struggle with. Which of course is quite understandable, given his position.
[He inclines his head slightly. Fairy Godmother is something that has probably stuck. And likely would. Forever. Still. It would be worth it for the sake of helping Nyx with the single thing the man appeared to actually need assistance with.
Nyx seemed capable. With most things. But this... it needed doing. Even if he couldn't do it for himself. As they board the escalator, he looks again at the other man- almost surprised by his colour. (And the fact that it, especially paired with casual clothes, seemed to make him look quite different to the disciplined aura he usually gave off.)
He drums his fingers, gently, on the rail as he regards him. This him.]
My apologies if I have made you uncomfortable. I assumed that given what I walked in on, that you were quite above shame with regard to apparatuses. But no. They don't.
[And they're at the top! Ignis moves, immediately, to what's important. Securing a trolley, which goes to Nyx, and a small map of the store. And of course a paper tape measure, paper for notes, and a pencil.]
It's quite a large building. I imagine it's rather easy to get lost. [A small pause. Yes, Nyx. bondage to logistics right away.] Can you estimate how many books you own?
[ Nyx feels the look, and so yes, his blush must be showing. But he pretends it doesn't bother him, keeping a cool face. ]
You really don't have to apologize for everything... I'm simply not used to talking so casually about such things in public.
[ If there is one thing he learned over the past decade, then it's that Crown city people are weird and not ashamed of anything. Also still adjusting to someone as formal looking as Ignis talking so casually about such things. ]
[ He looks down at the yellow trolley with the bag attached. And the map. And the pencil. And the paper. And the tape measure. What is going on here?? ]
Are we going on a quest? Was I supposed to bring provisions and a tent? I also think my bookcase won't fit in this bag unless it's magical. [ He lifts the flimsy over-used thing to check, not magical at all. ] But in all seriousness, why the pencil?
He doesn't. There are some in the Citadel that would view him attempting more practical things as an insult to his line, as well as a poor reflection of the conduct of his servants and attendants.
[He doesn't show it as he walks on- but that had always been quite the cause of contention. Regis himself was a humble man, despite his linage. The Ruling Council were not- despite their lack of it. But there was what was appropriate, and what was not.
He turns, abruptly to Nyx and the trolley. Ah, yes. He'd never been...]
The trolley is to cart the packaged shelving unit around before we pay for it. The bag is for anything else that might strike you as useful. One of the more interesting things about this place is no matter how disciplined you are, you will leave with more than what you came for.
The pencil... [A faint narrow of the eyes, and a faint smile.] is for me.
[A twirl of it indicates that fact. And he turns again, walking toward the bedroom section- pushing his glasses up slightly. The other thing...]
[ Nyx snorts. ] I'm pretty sure I'm not allowed any opinions on that matter.
[ His eyes wander to the trolley again, still not convinced, but return just in time to see him twirl that pencil and oh, is that a smile? Is his mission almost accomplished? Most importantly, Ignis finally seems like he's enjoying himself. ]
Why do you think so? [ He puffs his cheeks slightly as he trails behind him, Ignis has his back on him anyway. ] This is all very new, that's all. And I'm not going to buy anything I don't need.
[ Which was a lie, by the time they get to the bedroom section he's already slipped a coat hanger in the shape of a dog butt into the bag. It's cute, cheap and useful for hanging his coat, okay?
The beds have bigger price tags though, and he's checking the ones of the beds he likes carefully. ]
Are we allowed to try these? [ He asks, but is already climbing on one. ] This is already better than what I have... But you get on here too, I need second opinions.
[He didn't get one either. He turns his head to examine a sign indicating, with a big arrow, the kitchenware section. Yes, that deserved a visit. Later. But for the moment, he walks on to the bedroom section, watching Nyx as he abandons the trolley and makes himself comfortable in a little corner display of a quite nice, open room.]
Feel free- [Ah. He was already there. So he follows, deciding to test the thing by sitting on the end of it.]
The frame is nice enough, but the mattress is far too soft for my taste. Do you prefer softer or harder ones?
[ Nyx pats the space next to him, he's doing it partly to be a tease, but also because he really would like a good second opinion.
He tilts his head slightly confused at the question, he looks like a man who only just now heard there was a difference in mattresses, and that was probably because he actually was that kind of man. ]
Er... Hard? No, wait, soft. Or...
[ He has no idea, honestly. So he tries to lighten the mood by patting the metal frame headboard. ] You could handcuff someone to this, I'm sure.
[He tilts his head back and regards Nyx over his shoulder as the elder seems to be attempting to gauge what sort of mattress it was for himself. He can't help but smile, even faintly, as he moves to his feet to comply.
And. Soon enough, he's lying on the other side of it - turned to face him. Cosy indeed. And it's not like he cares what any passers-by might think. So. He keeps his eyes on Nyx's face, raising his hand, wrist upward, next to Nyx's own.]
Yes, but you'll have to secure them to the top rail of the headboard. It's the only one with enough room for the cuff. With that considered, you'll either have to keep your session boringly short... or have someone in a quite considerable amount of pain by the time you're quite finished.
[He pauses.]
You seem far too nice for the latter. Regardless, you'll have nowhere to secure your victim's feet with this bed. And that's half the fun.
[ Nyx turns on his side too, to face him. He might be doing it kind of to see if it would provoke any sort of reaction in Ignis. Also because he can see two employees standing by one of the information desks who're looking in their direction and seem to be talking quickly and excited. Probably they're discussing if the two of them are a couple or not.
Their opinions on the matter would probably lean towards yes, definitely if they heard the things Ignis was telling him here... ]
The feet too? That sounds advanced. I have so much to learn from you still, Ignis.
[ Now watch him push himself up and lean over Ignis to look under the bed, what do you mean he could have checked on his own side? ] It's too low to the ground too, I want something with storage. I don't have any stuff yet, but I might get some stuff I'd want to hide. You know, like handcuffs and whips and things.
What's wrong with soft though? Aren't beds supposed to be soft? [ Still leaning over Ignis, hands and knees on either side of him, he hops up and down to test the mattress. ] It doesn't have much spring to it either! I need that, it definitely helps get the job done more easily if it does
[Sadly, if Nyx is fishing, he's going to come up short. Ignis is an unflappable wall at even the most stressful of times... and this is nothing stressful at all.
If anything, it's quite nice. Even with the talking from the employees considered- because in his mind, they could think what they liked. Neither he nor Nyx were figures under public scrutiny, or even recognized here, or now.
So. He's just going to (playfully) narrow his eyes, looking into Nyx's blueish grey ones with his green.]
I am glad you seem to be reconsidering being a handcuff-only sort. You shouldn't limit yourself with regard to trying new things.
[Variety being the spice of life, and all that. But then Nyx is up, or sort of up, and- he's not going to lie, this angle is favourable. Yet.]
If you need it, we should arrange to go to other types of shop one day. Unless you're shy. [Even if he has a strong suspicion Nyx was far from it.
The bouncing, at least, causes him to move to a seated position, though still with Nyx's legs and arms at either side of him. He pushes the frame of his glasses up the bridge of his nose, looking over at the staff. Who now were staring.
...Time to move on.]
Come on. I'll show you one with a mattress that won't end up destroying your back.
Shy? Me? Of course, shyest Glaive there is. [ He's not going to keep on handling this bondage talk like a blushing rookie. He trusts Ignis not to talk, but he's still part of the crownsguard, who knows what rumors could be spread to ruin his image. ] We can go to one of those shops, because I'm sure it would be beneficial to go with you, I bet you have a great discount loyalty card.
[ And yet, his little act still didn't result in any laughter out of Ignis. He is a tricky one, Nyx muses to himself. He sits back again, politely on one side of Ignis this time. ] Fair enough, show me.
[Confirmed, thankfully. Relief shows in his eyes as he flicks them back to the Glaive. If anything, he's simply pleased. Skirting around things, even the most benign of anecdotes, tended to be more exhausting than what it had any right to be. That and he'd always favoured being direct.]
I imagine you'll be quite disappointed to learn that I haven't visited one for quite some time. Nowadays, my time is rather limited.
[And truthfully, it was difficult to get time off. Day or night, excepting this little trip that tended to be rather miraculous with the fact that both of them were free at the same time.
...And spending time he could be using to sleep, or just get ahead on cheap flatpack shopping...
It's not something he's hating. Or seeing, even remotely, as a waste of time.
When he moves, he lingers for a moment before rising from the bed, straightening out the folds in his trousers with a few brushes of his hands. Then, he extends it.]
This way.
[Whether Nyx takes it or not, Ignis moves past a few other beds to one indeed with storage boxes- and a headboard where the spacing is far more vertically inclined.]
I like this.
[He states, as he presses at the mattress with both hands.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
I have been watching all of the marie kondo for this express purpose
His interest, when he was busy already and didn't have to be interested besides that, had originally been because of the king. A few months ago, he'd actually seen the king for the first time in perhaps a year as he passed in the Citadel, and had found it difficult to recognize the man. He was now entirely grey, lined and wrinkled- walked with a stick beside that, and seemed like he was frailer than a man 30 years older than his 50 years should have any right to be.
It was the Wall, he knew it- but he'd had to stay silent about it as Regis had looked to him at the meeting, and asked how Noctis was. Regis was not even close to being his father. Ignis would not have even half the audacity it would require to see him as anything close- yet actions spoke for themselves. He had been raised alongside Noctis since he was a child, never far away. And of course he'd cared for the man. Proximity had dictated that. The fact he'd been so young had dictated that. Ignis had found himself scared, uncharacteristically so, by the sight of him now. It'd brought forward what he'd always considered far, far away- that Regis would die, and that Noctis would have to allow the Crystal to siphon his own life away instead.
Stating anything but what Regis had asked for was unthinkable. But he had to do something. Although he couldn't do anything for him directly, had decided that he'd add favours for the Kingsglaive to his list of things to do. It made sense, at least at the time. If he could do what he could for them, they'd have more time to focus on their task- the king- without distraction. If he helped them, they could better help him.
And then there was Nyx.
What had started as odd favours here and there- carrying written letters, supplying the occasional drink while passing- even questioning why exactly such a capable soldier was placed on gate duty quite so much in council meetings had changed- mostly due to the fact Nyx had actually helped him with training. That, and he wasn't as unapproachable as most Glaives. Professional, of course, but he seemed kind as well.
It was for that reason he'd actually visited him, with another handful of letters, and actually seen his living conditions.
And for that reason he'd met him, here, just shy of the main fountain plaza in his own car- not even slightly as impressive as Noctis' own- but still a distinctive step above other things on the road. He pulls over by the fountain, exiting the car and checked his phone- going through no small number of work-related emails as he waited.]
Throw all of her wisdom at Nyx!
Good morning. [ He calls politely to get his attention away from the small screen. Nyx himself has a phone for work reasons, but he never really does much with it other than texting, it's not something he grew up with like the Insomnia kids did and so he never understood how some people can be glued to theirs.
Today he's dressed in casual clothes, since walking about in his Kingsglaive garb at Ikea would attract too much attention, he's sure. But casual with Nyx doesn't mean baggy, it means tight shirts showing of his chest. Whether he does this on purpose or not is up to interpretation.
He gestures at the car. ]
You think the flatpacks'll fit in this? Because I've heard many legends that one does not simply walk into Ikea without coming back out with a car full of stuff they didn't came for.
i will! aside from her comments on books. that's just wrong.
He raises his head when Nyx calls, placing his phone in his jacket pocket and looking to him. He's not unguarded enough- even now- to be taken aback at the way Nyx looked as a person and not a Glaive- but it is surprising to see anything but black on him. Surprised or not, he smiles.]
I do hope so. With all respect, I imagine we'll have to purchase quite a few things in order to make your apartment comfortable.
[Small pause.]
If you've read back through our message history, you'll understand. But I feel like I should apologize for what I said. In person.
[Smaller pause.]
So, I apologize. It was not my intention to walk in on you. Or to insult you.
What did she say about the books? :o
I'm sorry you had to come in and see that. I assure you it's not something that happens every week. You were... really unlucky with your timing. So please stop apologizing.
[ Somehow he's not so keen on Ignis thinking he's constantly handcuffing men to his bed, he's not like this, only rarely, really. ]
And I guess my room could do with an extra cabinet or two. It's good you shook me awake about that, because I realized I should make it feel more like a home.
https://twitter.com/i/events/1081177978694819841 ;x
...Sorry Nyx. Only Noct gets the door opened for him.]
Fair point. Ah- let's not mention the gentleman. It's your prerogative for what you do in your spare time. You needn't explain.
[As he settles into the seat, fastens his seatbelt, takes the handbrake off, checks the mirrors, waits for Nyx to be in and settled, checks the mirrors again, starts the engine, and sets off, he tilts his head, slightly, his fingers drumming faintly on the gearstick before he changes gear.]
It's not my place to state what you should, or you should not do. But I can't help but find it odd, that you've been here for such a long time now, and not made an attempt to make that place better for yourself. By all means, tell me not to inquire further if you wish. But I do find it curious. It can't be comfortable.
Gasp! Nobody is touching Nyx's books.
So he does take care of his own door and seatbelt, thank you.
Ignis' questions make him knit his eyebrows together for a few seconds, it's indeed a sensitive subject. But it seems easier to open up to Ignis. He couldn't do the same to the other Glaives, because most of them shared his same pain, so talking about it only seemed like attention seeking. But Ignis? He was an outsider, so it was more like explaining than complaining if he told him. ]
It did the job, you know. I moved in when I first came to the city, got the first place I could afford. I didn't mind it being small because I figured it would be temporary, I honestly thought I'd be back home by now. I thought all this trouble would be over, but... It was naive of me. The years went by far quicker than I realized.
[ He hesitates the next part, so there's a pause where his mouth just hangs open. ]
Your next question will be why I don't move, as if the king doesn't pay me enough, right? Well thing is, I still have family back home, and they need me, so anything I can spare of my wages goes to them. I don't expect you to understand, but it would be selfish to move to a more expensive place.
they bring him joy! they're fine! i hope!
I understand the latter well enough. I was moved here to live with my uncle while I was prepared for my role. The Citadel shortly after that. He tells me that he does similar things with his wage.
[He states it matter-of-factly. And he is brisk about it. Because unlike Nyx, he doesn't have the attachment- even the memory- of life before the Citadel. He was too young to. The sterile environment, expressionless statues, and the urban, neon sprawl of the outside was all he'd remembered... and likewise, all he wanted.]
Regardless, whether you're here for another year or another ten, it's irresponsible to live in a manner where you're wrestling with things for the sake of sleeping. Not to the Crown, not to your family. But for you. Would they be content to see you as you are?
I assume they do considering they're all he has in that room besides a tiny tv.
I... ah. [ Again lost for words. He isn't used to thinking about himself. He would literally rather throw himself at a daemon to save someone than think of his own life, after all.
And still, it's only a room, it doesn't seem important. His family will be fine with how he lives because he'll never tell them. That's the way Nyx works. No grudges, no complaints. ]
I wouldn't be in this car if I didn't want to change it. No need to still convince me. Although you do seem awfully invested in my well being.
thank every book for the joy it has given you with a huge bookcase, nyx
You serve the Crown. Beside that, you've helped me on a personal level with my training. Should I not be?
[He overtakes a van.]
If attempting to repay you is starting to concern you, you need only say. I thought something like this more effectual than coffee. Particularly as you don't seem like you have a car yourself.
[Every spare gil going to family, and all. He overtakes another few cars, before shifting into another lane.]
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[ He's trying to lift the spirits here, he's very grateful with being repaid, really, so they might as well make this shopping trip fun. ]
Also, nothing wrong with walking. [ Or warping, he wants to joke, but he's afraid to offend him by making such easy use of the king's magic. ]
[ And there it already dooms up, the giant blue box that is Ikea. Even here in Insomnia it stands out like nothing else. ]
So, I was thinking I would like a bookcase at least, and they sell drying racks, right? One I can fold up if I don't need it. And I do want to have a look at the beds as well.
[ See? He can be enthusiastic about this. ]
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[Sadly, He's hardly going to repeat that a lot of this is because he still feels he owes him from training, but the joviality isn't lost on him. He responds dryly, with only a flicker of amusement in his eyes- but it's there.
He says nothing about the comment about walking. Even if it was amusing to think of the other lugging whatever he'd got back with him. The amusement is only fleeting, though. He's serious again at the mention of what exactly Nyx hopes to get from this. ]
I believe so. I trust you've taken the adequate measurements?
[He must have.]
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[ When did he get defensive of Ignis? Probably when he realized what a good guy he was, because really, he's taking him furniture shopping! He's amazing. ]
Did my best on them, even made a little drawing. [ He pulls it from his pocket to show, a small sketch of his place with some numbers scribbled here and there. Very responsible. ] I think I might have the room for a small double bed. But it has to be one you can handcuff someone to. [ He glances at Ignis as he says it, because he has decided on a side mission today, to make him laugh or at least have an amused smile grace his lips. ]
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As he pulls into a parking spot, he switches off the engine and accepts the drawing, eyeing it. Quite accurate. The fact he'd actually added in actual measurements to each wall would save them quite a deal of trouble.]
I must admit, I was slightly concerned that what you had taken down would be unusable. [Perhaps he'd spent a little too much time with Noctis- who, while certainly not an idiot or anything close, simply didn't have to be practical.] I'm relieved to see that is not the case. These will help us quite a lot.
[And at the commend about the bed, he can't help but linger, folding his hands on his lap after he unclips his seatbelt.]
You might prefer to invest in something for over your bed. It's much more fun.
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What, you think they don't teach geometry in Galahd? [ He may not have been some miracle student, but he never had any problems with numbers and distances. He couldn't help but be quick to question Ignis' judgement either, because quite a few Insomnians liked to look at them and think of them as savages. You know, running around naked in the forest, eating things that were barely dead.
But he doesn't want to pick a fight, just, had to get it out. So he snorts and shakes his head as he takes off his seatbelt, ready to get out, but stops to look at Ignis again. ]
...What kind of something are we talking about here? You seem oddly experienced.
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It's nothing to do with where you're from. Merely the fact that if I had of asked Noct to make a diagram, it would be considerably worse.
[And needless to say, he doesn't really get much time with people other than him. He moves his eyes away, sighing faintly as he moves to open his door. Awkward? Yes. But he understands, at least vaguely, the bias against the refugees. Crown City inhabitants, at large, do tend to look at anyone from beyond the wall as quite... less.
Which is a good reason why there's so many protests, and why things in the city are far from peaceful. He brings his eyes back to Nyx at the question, pausing.]
If you're taken with ensuring your [victim?] ...lover is incapable of movement, there are places that sell things which can be attached to your ceiling for usage. They're quite discreet when not being used as well. You might find it an alternative for when you tire of the headboard.
[And he steps out of the car.]
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[ He gets out of the car too, and together they walk inside the building to the escalators as Nyx hopes his ears don't look as hot as they feel. ] I, er... don't think I need that sort of thing. Pretty sure I'm more of a classical guy. But they don't sell those things here, do they?
[ And as they reach the top of the escalator, there's already entire (but tiny) living rooms on display. Nyx finds himself staring at the set up, because to be honest he has never been inside a real furniture shop. Most of his stuff comes from places selling second hand things or from friends. ] You'd think someone lives here...
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[He inclines his head slightly. Fairy Godmother is something that has probably stuck. And likely would. Forever. Still. It would be worth it for the sake of helping Nyx with the single thing the man appeared to actually need assistance with.
Nyx seemed capable. With most things. But this... it needed doing. Even if he couldn't do it for himself. As they board the escalator, he looks again at the other man- almost surprised by his colour. (And the fact that it, especially paired with casual clothes, seemed to make him look quite different to the disciplined aura he usually gave off.)
He drums his fingers, gently, on the rail as he regards him. This him.]
My apologies if I have made you uncomfortable. I assumed that given what I walked in on, that you were quite above shame with regard to apparatuses. But no. They don't.
[And they're at the top! Ignis moves, immediately, to what's important. Securing a trolley, which goes to Nyx, and a small map of the store. And of course a paper tape measure, paper for notes, and a pencil.]
It's quite a large building. I imagine it's rather easy to get lost. [A small pause. Yes, Nyx. bondage to logistics right away.] Can you estimate how many books you own?
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[ Nyx feels the look, and so yes, his blush must be showing. But he pretends it doesn't bother him, keeping a cool face. ]
You really don't have to apologize for everything... I'm simply not used to talking so casually about such things in public.
[ If there is one thing he learned over the past decade, then it's that Crown city people are weird and not ashamed of anything. Also still adjusting to someone as formal looking as Ignis talking so casually about such things. ]
[ He looks down at the yellow trolley with the bag attached. And the map. And the pencil. And the paper. And the tape measure. What is going on here?? ]
Are we going on a quest? Was I supposed to bring provisions and a tent? I also think my bookcase won't fit in this bag unless it's magical. [ He lifts the flimsy over-used thing to check, not magical at all. ] But in all seriousness, why the pencil?
[ Warning, Ikea virgin on-site! ]
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[He doesn't show it as he walks on- but that had always been quite the cause of contention. Regis himself was a humble man, despite his linage. The Ruling Council were not- despite their lack of it. But there was what was appropriate, and what was not.
He turns, abruptly to Nyx and the trolley. Ah, yes. He'd never been...]
The trolley is to cart the packaged shelving unit around before we pay for it. The bag is for anything else that might strike you as useful. One of the more interesting things about this place is no matter how disciplined you are, you will leave with more than what you came for.
The pencil... [A faint narrow of the eyes, and a faint smile.] is for me.
[A twirl of it indicates that fact. And he turns again, walking toward the bedroom section- pushing his glasses up slightly. The other thing...]
You're uncomfortable.
[There's slight amusement in his voice!]
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[ His eyes wander to the trolley again, still not convinced, but return just in time to see him twirl that pencil and oh, is that a smile? Is his mission almost accomplished? Most importantly, Ignis finally seems like he's enjoying himself. ]
Why do you think so? [ He puffs his cheeks slightly as he trails behind him, Ignis has his back on him anyway. ] This is all very new, that's all. And I'm not going to buy anything I don't need.
[ Which was a lie, by the time they get to the bedroom section he's already slipped a coat hanger in the shape of a dog butt into the bag. It's cute, cheap and useful for hanging his coat, okay?
The beds have bigger price tags though, and he's checking the ones of the beds he likes carefully. ]
Are we allowed to try these? [ He asks, but is already climbing on one. ] This is already better than what I have... But you get on here too, I need second opinions.
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[He didn't get one either. He turns his head to examine a sign indicating, with a big arrow, the kitchenware section. Yes, that deserved a visit. Later. But for the moment, he walks on to the bedroom section, watching Nyx as he abandons the trolley and makes himself comfortable in a little corner display of a quite nice, open room.]
Feel free- [Ah. He was already there. So he follows, deciding to test the thing by sitting on the end of it.]
The frame is nice enough, but the mattress is far too soft for my taste. Do you prefer softer or harder ones?
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[ Nyx pats the space next to him, he's doing it partly to be a tease, but also because he really would like a good second opinion.
He tilts his head slightly confused at the question, he looks like a man who only just now heard there was a difference in mattresses, and that was probably because he actually was that kind of man. ]
Er... Hard? No, wait, soft. Or...
[ He has no idea, honestly. So he tries to lighten the mood by patting the metal frame headboard. ] You could handcuff someone to this, I'm sure.
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And. Soon enough, he's lying on the other side of it - turned to face him. Cosy indeed. And it's not like he cares what any passers-by might think. So. He keeps his eyes on Nyx's face, raising his hand, wrist upward, next to Nyx's own.]
Yes, but you'll have to secure them to the top rail of the headboard. It's the only one with enough room for the cuff. With that considered, you'll either have to keep your session boringly short... or have someone in a quite considerable amount of pain by the time you're quite finished.
[He pauses.]
You seem far too nice for the latter. Regardless, you'll have nowhere to secure your victim's feet with this bed. And that's half the fun.
[And finally! He shifts, again.]
And again, this mattress is far too soft.
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Their opinions on the matter would probably lean towards yes, definitely if they heard the things Ignis was telling him here... ]
The feet too? That sounds advanced. I have so much to learn from you still, Ignis.
[ Now watch him push himself up and lean over Ignis to look under the bed, what do you mean he could have checked on his own side? ] It's too low to the ground too, I want something with storage. I don't have any stuff yet, but I might get some stuff I'd want to hide. You know, like handcuffs and whips and things.
What's wrong with soft though? Aren't beds supposed to be soft? [ Still leaning over Ignis, hands and knees on either side of him, he hops up and down to test the mattress. ] It doesn't have much spring to it either! I need that, it definitely helps get the job done more easily if it does
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If anything, it's quite nice. Even with the talking from the employees considered- because in his mind, they could think what they liked. Neither he nor Nyx were figures under public scrutiny, or even recognized here, or now.
So. He's just going to (playfully) narrow his eyes, looking into Nyx's blueish grey ones with his green.]
I am glad you seem to be reconsidering being a handcuff-only sort. You shouldn't limit yourself with regard to trying new things.
[Variety being the spice of life, and all that. But then Nyx is up, or sort of up, and- he's not going to lie, this angle is favourable. Yet.]
If you need it, we should arrange to go to other types of shop one day. Unless you're shy. [Even if he has a strong suspicion Nyx was far from it.
The bouncing, at least, causes him to move to a seated position, though still with Nyx's legs and arms at either side of him. He pushes the frame of his glasses up the bridge of his nose, looking over at the staff. Who now were staring.
...Time to move on.]
Come on. I'll show you one with a mattress that won't end up destroying your back.
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[ And yet, his little act still didn't result in any laughter out of Ignis. He is a tricky one, Nyx muses to himself. He sits back again, politely on one side of Ignis this time. ] Fair enough, show me.
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I imagine you'll be quite disappointed to learn that I haven't visited one for quite some time. Nowadays, my time is rather limited.
[And truthfully, it was difficult to get time off. Day or night, excepting this little trip that tended to be rather miraculous with the fact that both of them were free at the same time.
...And spending time he could be using to sleep, or just get ahead on cheap flatpack shopping...
It's not something he's hating. Or seeing, even remotely, as a waste of time.
When he moves, he lingers for a moment before rising from the bed, straightening out the folds in his trousers with a few brushes of his hands. Then, he extends it.]
This way.
[Whether Nyx takes it or not, Ignis moves past a few other beds to one indeed with storage boxes- and a headboard where the spacing is far more vertically inclined.]
I like this.
[He states, as he presses at the mattress with both hands.]