V-day with a Shield and a book | blkwings

[houseofscientia]

[ To be honest, Ignis started arranging his Valentine's day way before Gladio asked him for a date. To get a few hours off from his busy schedule it needed excessive rearrangements, and in a few cases, bribing too. Ignis figured if the man wouldn't ask him, he'd signal his wish in time for him. Thankfully, he could trust Gladio to deliver a pretty smooth request for a Valentine's day date, to which Ignis could bravely say yes.

It didn't mean Ignis wasn't busy that day. He prepared some cards and obligatory chocolate Noctis can give to a few people. Ignis also prepared a batch he spiced up a little for an important soon to be Shield too.

Preparations were easy in some way, but the actual date stroke Ignis with a strange emotion. Something akin to unease, though not entirely in the wrong way.

It did help his nerves a little that he was the one driving them, even if Gladio insisted it would be faster if he drove. But it gave them something to focus on during it and so Ignis didn't have to just smile to himself all the time like a fool. Gladio navigated them to a part of the city Ignis wasn't too familiar with. Which was exciting.

He gets out of the car, looking around as he's setting his shirt and vest he is wearing for this occasion, with slacks and too expensive shoes. They are far from the Citadel, but not too far, which is good. Even with all the arrangements, he could still be called to assist Noctis. Both of them, actually. ]

Show me the way, then.

[ One thing about being in a different part of Crown City however, is that Ignis can hold out his hand for Gladio to take and people won't bat an eye. Would he try that near the Citadel, hell would get lose. ]

Comments

[blkwings]

[Gladio hadn't been surprised at Ignis' easy acceptance of the date. Not really. While it was true the other man tended to be busy far more often than not, it stood to sense that he'd also have the foresight to clear things out in order for them to go out and do something while unhindered.

Gladio wished, at least remotely, that he shared the same tenacity. It wasn't as if he didn't want to do it- oh no- but he found that, at the very least with this, his usual easy manner had transformed and changed into complete and total neuroticism.

He'd stared, many times, at his phone looking at things to do and see in the city. Rolled his eyes, snorted at most of it. Wondered, really wondered, what Ignis would think to doing cheesy, manufactured, impersonal "quirky" things like Geocaching "experiences" (ugh) or Night at the Museums alongside other couples.

Ugh, the lot of it stressed him out.
And it didn't seem good enough for Ignis.
That pissed him off even more.

Then he found it. It seemed as pretentious as all hell- gentrification, if anything- of one of the more boring areas of Insomnia by re-purposing a rotting old library into a fancy coffee shop that promised both a place to sit down and read, as well as to drink way too expensive coffee. He'd flicked through the website quite a bit, really. Far too much.

Then he'd decided.

The question had been asked, accepted, and he'd kind of, sort of, internally, done a backflip. But he'd masked it with a gruff response of affirmation, and gave the prince's advisor a grimace of a smile as he'd unclenched his hands in the inside of his hoodie and sloped away.

Actually happening. Actually happening.

And happening it was. He'd made sure to get a haircut before it. A shave, too. And perhaps he'd taken way too much care in choosing what he was to wear to this date. Then chose again. And again. And again.

So much so that Iris had even commented 'Gladdy, for such a big guy, you totally act like a girl sometimes.' ...Which had led to merry Hell breaking loose in the Amicitia household.

As a peace offering, Iris had assisted him in choosing a simple, longsleeved vest as well as a leather jacket. (With sleeves- she insisted. Something he agreed with- at least because his tattoo was still very much a work-in-progress.) That, as well as a pair of worn jeans and his usual boots was effort.

...So much effort.

He got out of the car shortly after Ignis, unable to not look at him as he did.

Damn. Even in unfamiliar surroundings, he couldn't keep his eyes off him.

So he joins him, freely winding his arm around the other's as he takes his hand.]

It's just down this alley. Not far. Promise.

[houseofscientia]

[Ignis smiles as Gladio takes his hand and falls in pace with him as they walk. He noted Gladio's effort the moment they met up, he did. The fact that he was trying for this date made Ignis just a tad more relaxed, knowing that Gladio may also feel the same kind of nervous excitement that grips his chest too. Does he also feel that flutter as they hold hands? Or is that just Ignis?

And yes, while Ignis promised Gladio they will do this, and not just try that still didn't mean he wasn't nervous about the whole thing. Especially on their first date.

First date. Ignis lets go of a tense sigh at that. Logically thinking about it, it isn't a big deal, but as he's walking with Gladio, hand in hand, to a place he'll 'definitely like', something Gladio picked for them, he just can not stop that jittery, child-like emotion in his stomach. Something that has been lingering in him during all times when he's with Gladio, though right now it seem to be elevating a bit, making Ignis' breath come just a tad bit short. And he can't say he doesn't like it.]

I don't mind walking with a handsome man by my side. [Ignis assures, squeezing Gladio's hand just a bit, while he could.] But I must admit I'm curious. [It is also noteworthy that he didn't demand Gladio to tell him where he wants to take him, that's how much he trusted him with this. Usually Ignis would be ahead by three steps, but with Gladio, he decided to trust him.]

[blkwings]

[He darts amber eyes to Ignis again, the same faint smile coming to his lips. He keeps his head turned to him as he walks, the faint sigh the other gives causing him to lift his thumb slightly- thumbing gentle circles on the delicate skin on the inside of his wrist.

Honestly, yes. The excitement is nervous. But just as much, it's kind of... nice to behave as he wanted to, without a care for what people saw. Here was so different from the Citadel and the areas around it.

And he laughs at the statement.]

Yeah. Well, I guess if you don't like it, then we can keep walking.

[He doesn't say it. because it's sappy, but honestly? He could be anywhere with him and be happy. So if this place is a bust, there's that.

He could tell him now, he thought. Since they're only a few doors away.]

So, it's a place, right. Used to be an old library. 'Course, with internet, Wikipedia, e-books, shit like that, it went the way most libraries went. Underfunded, understaffed. Kind of sad, pathetic. Everything inside left to rot, 'cause people've got an entire building of books like that on their phones anyway.

[Was he rambling? Fuck.]

Uh, yeah. Anyway, some business moved in. They turned it into a coffee shop. Probably boiled the carpets to get rid of the smell of the library first, but they keep the inventory around. Anyway, the shop's kind of like in the other end of town, but I read they do types from... everywhere. They sell what they make for home use, too.

[As they arrive outside the building, the facade is viewable as the original design- like most of the older buildings in Insomnia. Whitewashed. Almost gothic- decorated by countless statues on the sides of the building, on the roof. He leans forward to get the door for Ignis.]

Here we are.

[As Ignis steps in, he should see that the inside is ...very different inside than outside. It's large, multi-tiered with a balcony, shelves and shelves of books on the upper level. On the lower, it's alike any other coffee shop, aside from the fact that it's darker, closer, much more intimate- with soft lights, comfy sofas, and very, very dark corners.]

[houseofscientia]

Already with a back-up plan. Not bad.

[Ignis remarks. It really isn't a bad plan, he'd be happy to just walk and talk too, holding onto that hand clinging to his, listening to Gladio. His heart always flutters hearing his voice after all. And when he rambles it's almost cute.]

So a new business on the ruins of another. Isn't that romantic? [He comments as they arrive. Ignis takes in the sight, which does look like an old, forgotten place of the old. Something he hadn't seen for a long time, actually. It has a rustic feel to it and he does raise an eyebrow at Gladio.

With a quiet thank you he ducks into the shop, looking around. Now, it does have a different feel to it. It feels cozy, it feels warm. And Ignis can't help to think that it suits Gladio pretty well, especially those dark corners. The scent of quality coffee in the air is also a big plus, that makes Ignis smile wider. He takes a few steps in then turns to Gladio.]

Unfortunately, no need to walk further. I like the place. [One point for the Shield. Ignis raises a hand to to press it at Gladio's waist as he moves closer.] Let's order and find the darkest spot in here.

[blkwings]

Only 'cause you've got taste. [He can't help but smile faintly at that, his eyes following him as he enters.] You'd probably laugh if you knew. But it took forever to think of one thing. Everything else seemed like trying too hard. Or not hard enough.

[Ignis' approval, however, is a large weight off his mind. He can't help but show his relief with a faint squeeze of the hand. Part of him wants to ask if he's sure- if he really means it- but it seems a poor idea. He'd never not known Ignis to speak his mind. Even when he's holding back, he tends to do it with silence.]

Okay. You'll have to order for yourself though. I don't know anything about coffee. All I know is instant is garbage. Think you taught me that.

[For himself, he's just planning on green tea. Simple. Healthy. Not likely to make how nervous he feels into a full-blown case of the shakes. He lowers his eyes at the touch to his waist, lowering his head to lightly, carefully, touch his lips to Ignis' forehead.]

[houseofscientia]

In return, let me pick the place next time. [Ignis offers, understanding how troubling it must have been. He is sure if he was gifted with the task he'd have spent hours of research on it too. And even if he knew that he picked the best, most suitable place, he'd have been nervous about it. So silly, and yet... here they are. So he'll try to ease Gladio into the fact that his choice is indeed a good one.]

I'm trying to educate all of the Citadel and the Prince on this simple fact, too. [And if his plan goes through, all instant coffee would be banned from the Citadel at least.

He smiles at the lips at his forehead, noting how he loves all the touches and kisses he'd receive from this man. It's gotten 'worse' since they decided on their thing, because they have a kind of weight to them. He wants to kiss Gladio too, but they can do that later, hidden away in one of the corners here.

So Ignis moves away a little, pulling Gladio to the counter for their orders. The coffee selection is something that makes him consider visiting this place frequently too. He makes his order of a strong imported coffee, with milk and no sugar. He's not entirely a fan of milk in his coffee, but for some types it actually does good for the taste.]

You'd like to pick a book? [He asks as they orders is being prepared.]

[blkwings]

Deal. [Another soft brush of his lips against the other man's forehead, and another tighten of his hand. He can't help but laugh at what he says though- separating himself from Ignis when he steps away- eyes amused. So amused.]

Yeah, that's not going to happen. You know that the Council'll always go for anything they can get hold of. Especially when things go on and on. And Noct'll always ask you for yours and act like he's so mature. But he won't drink it. He just walks around with it, pouring it into things when he thinks you're not looking.

[It's amusing. And he can't help but be amused at it. As he's pulled to the counter, he orders himself his tea, leaning against the counter as he speaks to him.]

Nah. ...Maybe later. I'd prefer to stay with you.

[Preferably in a dark corner. Soon enough, their drinks arrive. And he finally loosens his hand to pay.]

C'mon. Let's find somewhere quiet.

[houseofscientia]

I truly wish Noct would come clean about not liking coffee. [One of the many woes of Ignis. The Council is one thing indeed, but Noct... Ignis is going to humor him with making coffee for him whenever he asks, until he'd tell him not to. Until then he'll try to experiment when he can, that what kind of coffee Noct'd like, though. Not finding the right one so far. Poor potted plants...

Ignis smiles a little, though he notes the green tea. He's silent as Gladio pays, looking around for a possible spot. He wonders how come the place isn't stuffed for Valentine's day, but maybe people have different ideas about romantic dates. It also occurs to Ignis how different they are from the people in Crown City. Not in the 'we're royals you aren't' way, but in... a different sense. He sometimes has this feeling in the Citadel too, but right now it's hitting him a bit stronger.

He turns back to Gladio, reaching for his arm for one second as a thank you, and just to feel him, too. Then takes his coffee.] Let's.

[He prompts, leading them toward the back, to one of the hidden, barely visible spots of the place. It does look a bit like a maze, where guests can have their rest and privacy, accompanied by warm, dulled lights and Ignis can't say he's not affected.]

Are you nervous? [He asks, once they find the spot where they could have their own private coffee moments and places his drink down the small table by the sofa.]

[blkwings]

He won't, ever. He wants to be mature, like you.

[And so many more potted plants are due to die terrible, slow, caffeinated deaths until Noctis either develops a taste for the stuff, or quits trying. Alas.

He follows Ignis as he walks, noting the same. There were staff, both behind the counter and milling about the place, but not many. Not even half as many as what would be needed should the building be full. But it was fine. If anything, it was ...nice, actually. And it was conducive to Gladio's intentions- getting close and not separating for a while.

He follows Ignis onto the sofa, placing his drink next to his coffee. And the question makes him smile.]

...About this? Don't know.

[He sits, taking a good. long. look. around before pulling him, by that arm, onto his lap.]

Not gonna lie, I was worried you wouldn't like it. That you thought it a bit tryhard. Or, I don't know. Not good enough. Worried about that too. [He seems thoughtful at that, curling his hands at Ignis' waistcoat, at his hip.] But now I'm not worried. The sitting with you, and talking to you part, m'not worried about that. Never am.

[houseofscientia]

[As Gladio pulls him on his lap, Ignis experiences yet another thing he didn't truly expect. Well he knew what Gladio was planning, and he went with him of course, but the tint of color on his cheeks is a new thing. It takes him a second to relax against the other man, leaning against him and enjoying his warmth, letting his body press against his.

For this alone, this place already worth it, he wonders.]

Ah, I see. [He smiles, sneaking a hand under Gladio's jacket, around his waist.] The place is... I like it. I can see us coming here again. [He assures quietly.] It has books, for you. Coffee, for me. I can see it becoming our place. [It's away from the Citadel, but not too away. They aren't recognized, which is also good. So all these things strike Ignis positive.]

However, you're not alone in feeling slightly uneasy I can assure you. [Ignis starts, and moves just a tad away to reach into an inside pocket of his vest. He produces a small, purple box, tied with a black ribbon. It's a few pieces of chocolate he made that morning. He holds the box up for Gladio.] Because I'm about to ask you to be my Valentine. [May be the wrong choice of words, taken they are already on a date, but Ignis will roll with it.]

[blkwings]

[The even, warm pressure of Ignis' side pressing at his chest is something that he found favourable. Highly so, actually. Ignis had height and build enough to not feel insignificant against him, just enough to feel right.

So right, and being close to him, this uncommonly beautiful, uncommonly clever man, has already made this place his favourite. Even if it was in the middle of a city, something he typically weathered, but typically found stifling compared to outside of it.

He moves his arm, properly now, around Ignis' waist when he feels the other's move around him, his eyes lowered to pick up tiny little details. How Ignis seemed to be relaxed, but still didn't slouch- the tiny little moles that littered his skin. The scent of his hair, of his skin. Enough to be interesting, but never too much.

It's only really when he moves away that Gladio swallows, his eyes following him as he moves and produces the box, that his eyes widen. Shit. He thinks, a brief flash of panic visible as he realized that with all the obsessing about venue, about activity, about what to do- that he'd forgotten the most important thing, a returned gift.

Shit, shit, shit, shit.

He moves his eyes to Ignis, faltering slightly before answering. ]

Yeah. Of course, yeah. I accept. Totally.

Ah, Iggy, I-

[Shit.]

I kind of focused so much on getting this right, I didn't get you anything. But hold on. I got an idea.

[He abruptly rises from the chair, tipping Ignis off his lap as he makes his way, quickly, to the counter. Then he seems to be having a conversation with a (bemused) staff member. Finally, he comes back, and settles to the side of the other man, something held behind his back. And...

He unveils it- in the hope Ignis isn't pissed about either his reaction, or the fact that with everything else, he'd forgotten. It's a bag of coffee beans, of the same type as the kind he was currently drinking. And the staff member had even put a makeshift bow on it. Awww.]

[houseofscientia]

[Ignis expected Gladio to be flustered on some level. And truly that expression on his is something Ignis will remember and treasure until he still has air in his lungs. But what he didn't exactly expect is him running off...]

Gladio-- [He tries, attempting to stop the man as he gets up from their seat. Ignis preferred to have them sit like that for a while, so he can rest his hand against the other. But before he could muster up any word, Gladio is already gone. Ignis sighs, leaning back in his seat eying the corner Gladio has disappeared around. He takes a sigh too, because he has to calm down. He has it worse for him than he thought before and his loud heartbeat in his ear proves it. It's only been just a few minutes, but he already misses Gladio's warmth and closeness, which is so ridiculous taken he's just a room away.

Ignis' amusement, however peaks just a bit as he watches Gladio return. The smile on his lips feels slightly foreign to him, but he figures it will be something only for Gladio.

He's eying the gift, smiling then raising his gaze to Gladio's amber colored one. His hand also follows, cupping his face gently.]

For me? You shouldn't have. [He chuckles and leans in to finally deliver that kiss he was aching for ever since he took Gladio's hand. He adds softer then:] But really, you shouldn't have. I considered this date with you a gift as it is.

[blkwings]

[Ignis was stunning at the best of times. It was almost frightening, actually. Possessive of the most measured gazes, gaze always sharp, always looking like wheels were turning, even when he was relaxed. Some thought him severe- his looks, combined with the very proper manner of which he behaved, as well as his tendency to be serious at all times could be seen as intimidating. Not him. But even then, he'd not seen him when he smiled, when his face softened.

... And Gods. It was a nice sight to see. Especially when he laughed, smiling like that. He leans into the kiss, grateful, so damn grateful, that he hadn't screwed it up.

He keeps it light, because, of course, where they are, but he can't help but sigh softly at the feel of the other's manicured fingers at his shaved jaw.]

No way. [He answers, as he moves his arm to pull Ignis' legs up on his lap.] Then I'd have to consider you agreeing to come another gift. Then you'd be out some chocolates for no reason at all, and I'd be out a bag of really fancy coffee beans.

[He can't help but pull slightly at the other man's body, to try and get him to put his weight on him again.]

Seriously, though. Thanks for saying yes. I like spending time with you. More than anything, actually.

[houseofscientia]

[Ignis doesn't have to be persuaded too much to find his way back on Gladio's lap. Who knows when he can do that again after this.]

Next time I'll think twice about giving you chocolates, if you'd just run off like that. [He quips, sliding his arm around the other again, feeling that warmth and those muscles under his palm. It makes him sigh, gently nuzzling against Gladio's clean shaved skin. Which was a mistake, because his aftershave is just... Ignis sighs, pulling away a bit to get himself together.

What Gladio says almost sounds like someone would say in the heat of the moment, but Ignis knows the man wouldn't take any of his words back. He already knew Gladio liked to be with him. Even before they came clean about it, and more after. But he's never going to get tired hearing it. Maybe something about his voice as he says it. Maybe the reason that it's only for Ignis. Whatever it is, Ignis likes to hear it. It could also be because he feels the same.]

Such a bold statement. [He remarks however, setting his glasses.] But I can't say I don't feel the same way. Took me weeks to arrange this time with you, but it worth it. [He smiles, looking at the two gifts on the table fondly.] I wouldn't mind spending more time with you.

[blkwings]

[That's better. Much better. He laughs at the quip about running away, bumping his forehead, lightly, against the side of the other's head before pressing a small kiss to his jaw before he's nuzzled against. Gods, the closeness feels good, and its quite apparent by the fact his eyes close.

Sadly, it ends too soon. Way too soon, and he reopens one eye, feeling his absence keenly. He moves his arms, again, around Ignis' waist, half-laughing.]

There's a way around that. You should come to training more. I know you keep yourself in shape solo, but I can change things around with my schedule so I can be in when you are.

[They wouldn't be able to get this close, and he's fairly sure he'll probably pull his punches and get beat up for it. But. It was something.]

You up for it?

[houseofscientia]

Mmm. [Ignis hums as he's thinking about it, his hand playing with the zipper of Gladio's jacket. It's a good idea, training together. Ignis also knows it will be a great mental focus exercise on his part, taken what kind of state they could get in during sessions. Just thinking about it makes him feel hot here.]

It could work. We can try it, I'll send you my schedule. Let's see if we can find a good time. [He agrees, looking up at Gladio.] I always wondered how strong you are. It's going to be exciting finding out, if you let me. [He'd seen Gladio with Noct before, but that's not the same.]

[blkwings]

[As Ignis plays with the zipper of his jacket, he begins to knead each of his hands at each of Ignis' hips, moving his fingers in long, slow motions against his hipbones. He doesn't breach the layers of clothes. Of course not- there was a time and a place for that, and he doubted that the fitted type of tailoring Ignis preferred would allow for a hand or two to be slipped in anyway.

Still. It was nice. Really nice to feel him underneath his fingers, far more of him than what would normally be afforded with glancing touches.

...And it was worth any/all clips around the back of the head Ignis would give should it be too much.]

Yeah. And if it doesn't work out well, then we'll find something else. I'm not gonna give up.

[He meets Ignis' eyes when he looks up to him, allowing a faint breath of a laugh. His fingers cease their movements to cross his arms about his chest, holding him a little tighter.]

Don't know. Could probably lift you over my head if I tried. You do knives and javelins, right? Heard you favour long-range. Could help you out with close combat if you want.

[houseofscientia]

[Ignis shifts at the touch, but not entirely because it's uncomfortable. Quite the opposite. He relaxes into it though when he's sure Gladio will keep it light for now. There will be a time when Ignis will ask him not to, but this isn't that time.

In exchange he just moves his hand, placing his palm flat against the other's chest.]

Distance gives more time to learn about my enemy. I'm more for speed and tactic than brute force.

[He explains as he's moving into Gladio's hold easily. As if they've been doing this their while lives. It's not overwhelming, it feels more like something that would make him whole. A bit excited too. Reassured, even.]

But how many times could you lift me over your head? [Ignis challenges. Though he agrees that having some practice in close combat could beneficial. A lot, actually. He won't be as good as the Shield in it, but having knowledge in all types of fighting is something he'd like to aim for.] In exchange, I could give tips on speed, if we can keep the training up.

[blkwings]

[He laughs quietly at Ignis' thoughts about battle, curling his fingers against the fabric of the other's clothes. He feels it too. Having his weight against him, his scent, his warmth- it's something he misses- keenly- when he's not around.]

Distance also gives your enemy more time to learn about you. Speed and tactics have their place, yeah. But you need to back it up with a bit of brute force too.

But thanks. I could always do with some different training too. Maybe it'd be good to do it. ...Not just to get close to you.

[The challenge makes him laugh, again, lowering his head to press a small kiss against Ignis' shoulder. He looks, playfully, to the side of his head.]

Don't know. A few hundred. Wanna find out?

[houseofscientia]

By the time they think they know me, they're already defenseless. [Ignis smiles. He has confidence in his skills in that area. Though he's not stupid to ever stop learning and training. Especially not when Gladio offered his help.] You don't have to sell brute force for me, I also think it's one of the most important aspects in a fight. Something I try to compensate for in my technique.

Yes, it'll be welcomed. [He agrees, frowning a bit. It may be worrisome, that they also talk about work. In a way. Spending time together may morph into training together, for the sake of Noctis, their future King. Ignis wonders if it's his fault for making everything around Noctis, even this thing with Gladio. He also knows it could be one of the points that will get tested in the future.

Though then he tilts his head at Gladio, setting his glasses again. Oh yes, he'd love to find out.]

Are you trying to impress me, or is that a good guess?

[blkwings]

Anyone else, and that'd sound like bullshit. Not you though.

[He can believe it. It's a bold statement, but coming from Ignis, it's nothing but credible. The ma had a quiet confidence about him that commanded respect- and a look in his eye that suggested absolute honesty.]

Dunno. You're in good shape. [He can't help but, cheekily, move one of his hands to squeeze a bicep.] You must be strong. Probably you just plan things so well it never comes to you having to use your strength.

[He moves his hand back to its position, curled around his waist, and he moves his eyes to him again, the playful look showing again.]

I'm being conservative. I didn't get to look like this by cheating. ...But we could make it interesting. You could stand on my weights as an extra challenge. I think I could bench them and you.

[houseofscientia]

[Ignis moves a hand to pretend he'd want to bat Gladio's hand off of him. But it's just a teasing movement. If he really wanted those hands anywhere else than on him, Gladio would be aware by now. And this much is allowed after all.]

I keep in shape, it still needs work. [He assures, though there is something in the fact that Gladio compliments him.] Being resilient is also important in which you have more experience in.

Now that'd make a great balance training for me, too. [He smiles, matching Gladio's gaze.] What a great set of exercise we already have. [Training together. Ignis convinced it would work. It should work. He hoped it will work... With that in mind, he reaches up to brush his thumb against Gladio's chin.] Say, are you motivated by reward, Gladio?

[blkwings]

[The fake bat causes another quiet laugh from him. He's amused. Too amused by the thought of testing his limits. There's an almost childish look in his eyes as he does so-- and above all, he would not do this with anyone else. He couldn't, for a start. Not in his position.]

Yeah. Wouldn't hurt you to get more resilient. But if you've got cause to ever use it, I've fucked up. M'not planning on fucking up. With either you, or the prince.

[Co-training, like that anyway, sounds fun. Almost as fun as other things they could be getting up to in the gym- but Ignis was right. It really was too soon for all of that.]

Could make it a contest, if you want. See who can last longer. You up top, me below.

[At the question, and the thumb, he turns his gaze, his eyes meeting those of his partner. And he considers, tilting his head toward his hand.]

No. Only thing that motivates me is living upto what I should be. ...What about you?

[houseofscientia]

If you're serious, I'll help in both of those things. [Ignis smiles. Gladio's determined. He is, with everything. Truly a great quality in a Shield, he wonders. And he wants to be there to see it through, to witness it with his own eyes.] Training suddenly sounds way more interesting, that it was before.

[Ignis listens as Gladio answers his question. It's a noble motivation. Something that suits Gladio. Something, that wouldn't falter, wouldn't fall, just like the man himself. Ignis' gaze lowers to Gladio's lips as he's lost in thought for a moment. He wasn't thinking about that specifically before, but now that he does, the first thing that comes to his mind is King Regis trusting his one son to him. He'd call it duty, but there's just something more to it. Maybe one day, he'll find a good word to call it by. As he answers he's quiet, a bit more serious as he's sliding his fingers along Gladio's jaw.]

Something similar. The duty of my fate, if you will.

[Then he presses is fingers under Gladio's chin to tilt his head up just a tad, to look at him.] But what I wanted to ask was, if I could motivate you with anything in training?

[blkwings]

Completely serious. Always am.

[He states, deciding to lean to the side against the back of the sofa, turning Ignis slightly in his arms so he could see his face properly. He keeps his arms around him though- closing his eyes as he continues to lean into Ignis' hand.

The timbre of the other man's voice changes, and he opens his eyes once more- responding earnestly.]

The way I see it, we were both put here to help each other. You as someone to guide him, me as someone to defend him. It only works with both of us. Without either of us, he's dead. So lean on me, when you have to. I'll help you with your duty. Just like I'm going to lean on you.

...But Iggy. If... if either of us was born as something different, I'd still feel like this about you. He's important. Really important. But you're really important too.

[Sappy? Sappy. Ignis' fingers run over his jaw as he talks- falling silent when his chin is pushed up. And his eyes narrow, a slightly playful look in his eyes coming into them, a smile exposing white teeth against tanned skin.]

...There's no way you don't know what I'm gonna say, right?

[houseofscientia]

[This time Ignis closes his eyes, because Gladio's words fill him with a kind of determination. With a feeling that he's not alone. It's not like that he felt alone before, it's more like now he has someone else with him. Someone who understands.

'It only works with both of us.' It echoes in him. And how true that is.

And then... yes. Sappy. But...] Important? [He can't help to repeat it to himself with a slight smile. It's a strange feeling. Thinking about himself detached from his duty. Almost a frightening even, because his whole family was born to serve. Their existence, their purpose was to aid and guide royals, and yet Gladio is saying he'd be still just as important without all that. Ignis does wonder, however. For the first time, he's a bit speechless. Yet another thing Gladio is able to do.]

I may have gathered some information, yes. It'll be interesting to include such methods, if you agree. [Sometimes he's using the word 'interesting' instead of 'fun'.]

[blkwings]

Nope. Really important. There's a massive difference.

[He smiles at that, moving his head away from the finger that held his jaw upward, touching his lips in a small kiss to Ignis' cheekbone. And he can't help but smile against his face, accentuating his point with a light bump with his nose.

Then he puts his chin right back where it was, on the end of that outstretched finger. Because, what could be said. Ignis being assertive was... something new. And hot.

At the question, he laughs. Gently.]

I'm up for it. I'll book a few private sessions. Hope the training room can handle us.

[houseofscientia]

I believe you.

[It should be unfair how that kiss made Ignis' heart beat just a bit faster. It's already going at it on a higher volume than it should, ever since they met that day.]

It has no choice. [He nods, pulling his hand away, just to slide it on Gladio's neck as he leans in to have his own set of small kisses on his lips.] It's settled, then.