A/B/O Promptis School time with aggressive alphas and other tales of teenaged woe

[starless_sky]

Time seemed to be zooming by. It was going so fast for Noctis, his life had never gone so quickly. Perhaps because so many things were happening but honestly he'd chalk it up to being happy. He'd never been so at peace before either. With Prompto everything was right with the world. His days were fun, even when they were awkwardly trying to dance together in preparation for this ball. Even when they had homework and Iggy made them study. He was stupidly happy, life was a big game now and he found himself wondering how it was already spring time. 

How it was already exam season for his advanced courses. While it was not close to graduation, it was something he needed to complete if he was going to have a shot at graduating at the top of his class. Such a rank didn't matter to Noctis but it was something his father wanted and it was expected of a prince and basically he had to. Against his will, he'd add. He just had a few extra sessions of testing away from everyone else. It was normal enough, a group of students did it every year, it was known he was one of these kids attempting the exams since first year. He'd studied for it for weeks and today was the day it would finally be over. He was so looking forward to just going home with Prompto, getting sushi to go on the way, and watching anime on the couch. And napping. And maybe doing it. 

As it stood he was quiet on the way to school. Just ready for this test to be over. Before they entered the building he squeezed Prompto's hand. He was careful not to have any PDA at school. Prompto would be in a difficult position if people thought they could use him to get to the prince. 

"I'll be all morning probably, but I'll see you around lunch." Ignis had made them both a hearty meal for the day, one Noctis was already looking forward to in their hiding spot behind the school. "Meet me in the back, ok?" he leaned in quickly to kiss his cheek before they were in view of anyone else entering school. Noctis made a brief entrance at home room before he and the other students were dismissed to testing. School went on as normal without those kids. The same subjects. The same breaks. 

With one exception.

Their language arts teacher was out sick and the sub replacing her was quite distractable, enough so that they basically had a free hour. Students made excuses and just came and went as they pleased. A few came in from other classes to hang out with friends. Some even stopped near Prompto. Several bigger guys. 

"Hey Argentum... you're into photos, right? Can you come look at something for us? We need an artistic eye."

Comments

[starless_sky]

"I... I know... But thanks for being brave Prompto. It's just a short stint across to the locker room and nobody is here but me." it wasn't until then that Noctis really had to see what they'd done to Prompto. His clothes were... They'd ripped them off him. He knew he needed to leave them for the investigation. And the way Prompto shied away from his kiss. How Noct fix this, or better yet just turn back time and prevent it? He felt despair creeping up in him. What could he do now, how did he get his bright ball of sunshine back? How could he convince Prompto this really wasn't his fault?

"Or you know what. Just wear my blazer. The locker room is next door. Forget about your old clothes. Come on. Can you stand? Do you want to go on your own or I can carry you." but Prompto was already dressing and then he was so animated Noctis was... Relieved for a split second.

It seemed like Prompto was his enthusiastic self again but he was just trying to protect this... Himself and his shame... He got it but that didn't change that this was evidence. He could argue that he'd walked in on it and this he's already seen Prompto 'like that' but he won't argue the point now.

"It's ok. I'm not looking at anything but you." Noctis got on his knees too in front of Prompto. "There's nothing for you to apologize for. None of this was your fault." he took Prompto's face in his hands and wiped away his tears as best he could. They came so fast he could barely keep up. Then he just pulled his mate into a hug.

"I'm taking you out of here ok?" Noctis lifted him into his arms and headed just the next door down into the locker room. In there he set Prompto down on a bench in front of his locker and then sealed the door. He took a long slow breath.

"This is their fault. They attacked you. They made this happen. Don't blame yourself." he stepped over to Prompto's lock. He didn't have the code memorized though he ought to.

"What's your combination? I'll get your clothes for you." if he wanted. If he wasn't already trying to cover himself. Noctis tried not to be caught looking but he saw the beginnings of bruises. If scratches along Prompto's body and it hurt to think he wasn't there for him. He couldn't trust this school for even a matter of hours. How many others had suffered this fate in silence? How many had they assaulted just in his manner?

"Prompto... I need to call someone. Ignis. Or the police. We need to tell someone what happened... But I won't do that until you say it's ok. I'll wait with you." even though he needed to get on with this. In the back of his mind he had a small voice that said if he went through with announcing the attack without Prompto's blessing he'd regret it forever.

[everatyourside]

He'd thought he could hold it together, but as he sat weeping on the floor in front of Noct, he could see how badly he was failing at it. As Noctis embraced him, he clung tightly and tried to take deep breaths.

None of it was his fault? How could Noct say that so confidently? He should never have left without his Alpha, he should've stayed in the classroom, why couldn't he have just waited?

Noct set him down in the locker room and he felt a small measure of the tension leave. He didn't like dark, cramped spaces much in the first place, but now? He shivered.

"I tried to fight them," Prompto said quietly as Noct locked the door behind them. It seemed out of place and unimportant, but he needed Noctis to know. Needed to say it aloud to remind himself too.

"Oh... 15-29-4," he rattled off, glad for something mundane and easy to answer. It would help to have his other clothes, he thought. Noct was right, he was just trying to handle things like they should, but...

He gave a slow nod.

"Iggy," he decided. Iggy always knew the best course of action, not necessarily for Prompto, but for the prince. And there was a lot of damage control to be done. He worried his lip.

"You wont... get in trouble because of me, will you?" he held back tears as long as he could, sniffling as they threatened to spill over his red and swollen cheeks, "You can... t-tell them I did it, if you have to. It's not fair... I don't want you to get in trouble, Noct."

[starless_sky]

Noctis took deep breaths with him as they headed to the locker room. Slow and deep. He started to gently talk Prompto through them. "There you go. Good. Let your air out slowly. Count to three with me, 1..2..3. Good. You're doing great." he could already feel the change in Prompto when they left the equipment room. It was slight but anything was an improvement.

Because it wasn't his fault? They never should have led him away to rape him. Why couldn't they be peaceful people? It's easy to blame oneself afterward but they didn't give him a reason not to trust him before today. How can he be expected to know everyone's secret intentions?

"I know you did... But even if you hadn't... It doesn't change that this isn't your fault." if anything, Noctis knows Prompto probably had more bruises because of his struggling. He had to focus on something else for a second now that he thought about that. The locker combination. That was good. 15...24...wait no. 15...29...4

He opened the door and pulled out the gym clothes. Ignis insisted on then being washed regularly so they were not smelly and full of sweat like a lot of other gym clothes here. If it wasn't for Ignis Noctis would totally be one of those people who just... Let it go...

"Do you want me to help you get dressed?" he tried to sound positive but Prompto looked on the verge of tears. Understandable. "Hey. It's okay. Nobody is going to get in trouble because of you. Arctus will get in trouble because of what he did to you. He chose that. I may get in trouble for what I did to Gaius and Sergius. But those were my actions. My choices. Nobody is getting in trouble because of you." but to be honest this is a moment Noctis expected his rank would save him. The murder of Gaius and Sergius would be considered Justifiable Homicide and thus he'd be let off but being the prince... This might not even make the news. So much the better, Prompto might prefer that.

He got his phone out and texted Ignis. He explained Prompto was assaulted and he'd intervened. Come now.

"I could tell them you did it... But I won't. I want them to know it was me." and at those words, Noct's voice got colder. He imagines their faces, tries to remember how they looked when he was taking them down. He sounds distant. "I want everyone to know what happens to anyone who hurts you." a breath. His voice gentle again. Prompto needed to cry in a bad way.

"... Can I-" but his phone rang. It was Ignis. Noctis answered and Ignis could be heard on the other end asking urgent questions.
What happened? Where are you now? Is Prompto hurt? Noct, call 911. What are you waiting for?

Noctis glanced at Prompto before explaining slowly what happened. Ignis was quiet but then spoke softly. Noctis started to pace. His voice started to tremble. "I didn't get there in time...no... There were three of them. Yes, I know who they are. No, I fought them off. I Think I killed them. I Don't know. No. Sergius I do know. Gaius, I don't. I think Arctus is alive."

More talking and then Noct looked at Prompto." He's here... I'll ask." he held his phone out to Prompto.

"He asked to speak to you. Do you want to talk to him?"

[everatyourside]

Noct's slow breathing at his side was a welcome distraction. He didn't want to think about anything but the slow intake and exhale of his breath, but it hovered, just outside that safe little bubble, threatening to overtake him.

Noctis kept insisting it wasn't his fault and he wanted to believe it. He wanted to believe it so badly. But it was hard not to reply the scenario in different ways, if he'd said something else, if he'd realized faster, if he'd been better at employing the techniques Gladio had drilled into them in training. It would take a while for him to come to terms with.

He took the offered gym clothes; a white tee, jogging pants, and a loose jacket. After things had been taken so roughly from his control, he wanted the reminder that there were still things within his own control, small as they were. Prompto shook his head.

"Let me do it," he insisted, taking the clothing and tugging a shirt on over his head.

Much as he wanted to argue that Noct wasn't to blame, the cold look in Noct's eyes as he spoke was enough to give Prompto a chill.

But it was gone a moment later as Noct picked up his phone and Prompto finished dressing. He might feel the same anger later, but for now he just felt cold and hollow and raw. As Noct spoke with Iggy, he tried to block it out, didn't want to hear what had happened. Didn't want to accept it as real.

It wasn't until Noct tried to hand him the phone that he glanced up. What did Iggy want to tell him? He reached for it, cradling the phone to his ear, shoulders drawn up tight.

"Iggy?"

[starless_sky]

He can breathe slowly with him later if he wants. Or while waiting for Ignis to arrive. They could make a little bubble for themselves and just be at peace until this settled.

And Gladio and Ignis would both tell Prompto the same thing. This wasn't his fault and he should remember that his attackers made a choice and did all they could to mislead him. They were at fault, not Prompto. Maybe in time... hopefully he could accept that this wasn't a fault on his part. Unfortunately, many smart and powerful people fall victim to this.

"Okay, let me know if you want my help with anything else." Noct's voice was soft with Prompto. Warm as ever, as if they were just at home. But that icy look, the voice of a killer, that was just as authentic though it wasn't meant for his love. While he and Prompto were overwhelmed with emotion and shock right now... Noctis wouldn't come out of this with any regrets.

He'd killed those kids, he knew Gaius was dead even if he told Ignis he didn't on the phone. He ought to go into the equipment room and finish Arctus off too. The bastard. They deserved worse. But if Arctus lives then Noct would do everything in his power to see him put in prison, not just expelled from school. He was turning the logistics of that over in his mind while Ignis was on the phone with Prompto.

The steward's voice was gentle, he spoke slowly.

Prompto... I wanted to hear your voice. I'm so sorry... but you are safe now. I am on my way, Noctis will stay with you until we arrive. I have glaives coming with me to secure the area. They will need to ask you questions. I would be more than happy to sit with you or Noct can if you choose. It will take some time but I will bring you home as soon as we can leave. I wanted...I want you to know you aren't alone. I... wanted you to hear a friendly voice.

As it was... with traffic the way it was in the crown city, it should have taken the caravan of glaives from the citadel an hour to arrive but they were there in minutes. Noctis fluttered in between sitting with Prompto and breathing slowly and standing at the door to the locker room. There he watched to make sure no one entered the gym that he wasn't expecting. When the glaives showed up in record time, they were muttering to each other. Somehow they could enter through the gym doors that opened to the outside. Doors that should be locked. Either by having a key or the doors just being left open.

"It was just unlocked..."
"You've got to be joking. They just leave this place so unsecured. Our prince goes here. we have a security plan with this school."
"We've got a lot to work on with this place."
"If it's still standing after all this."

Noctis heard them and looked to Prompto.

"Do you want to go see them or stay here?"

[everatyourside]

He knew Noct was doing his best to be kind, but it was hard not to feel sick to his stomach. Part of him wanted nothing more than to let his mate hold him, block out the world and forget there was anything else. The other part felt unclean, unworthy, tainted somehow, and like he'd betrayed Noct in the most horrible way. He wished he could voice it, wished he could ask, but he just held his arms crossed tightly over his chest and tried not to shake.

"I just- want to go home and scrub their scent off me," he looked at the ground, feet shifting uncomfortably.

Iggy's voice was a surprise. He expected to be berated, told that he'd put the prince's good name in the mud, forced his hand, or worse. He wasn't sure what to say, but he held the phone close and nodded, despite it being a call.

"What... kinda questions?" he hedged, knowing he wouldn't like the answer.

Noct seemed to be even more upset than he was. The constant motion, the nervous energy, and he wished he could do something to help besides try to keep himself together. When the glaives arrived, he shrank back a little. He didn't want to move, but he didn't want Noct to have to handle it all alone. Prompto could put on a brave face, if it meant sparing Noct a little worry or pain.

"I can go with you," he pushed the words out with an effort.

He reached out, taking a hold of Noct's sleeve, just above the cuff and stood close by. He could duck behind Noct if he had to, but he'd be near enough to provide some small measure of moral support.

[starless_sky]

Noctis felt sick too. He had betrayed Prompto. He'd betrayed his promise to never let anyone hurt him. He'd failed him as an alpha and as a partner. This was his fault... He told himself it wasn't, that it was unreasonable for him to expect to protect Prompto every second of every day. That those creeps had a duty to be decent human beings and they failed more than he had. But those thoughts didn't stick.

"As soon as we can leave I'll take you home." he offered softly. He just wanted Prompto to be happy. To feel safe, loved, and carefree and... Not having to take stock of the damage.

Ignis didn't quite know what to say but he had to say something. He told Prompto what they both knew he didn't want to hear. That the glaives needed to ask any the attack. They needed to document as much as possible. Being a kingdom, they had rights and authority over police officers when it came to matters of the state and the royal family. Though Prompto wasn't yet wed to Noctis he was considered part of the royal family to the security team of the citadel. An attack on him warranted certain legal privileges like exclusive rights to interview and investigate this crime. A normal citizen would need to go through the police.

They will ask what happened. Tell them everything you can. You don't have to do it all at once. But it's best to do it now while it's fresh. Noct is with you. You'll be alright. I'll be there shortly.

When the glaives arrived, Noct's eyes were on Prompto. His words... He was trying to be brave and that was great. But this wasn't necessary.

"You don't have to if you don't want to. Nobody's going to be mad if you stay in here." he covered Prompto's hand with his other one. He leaned in close. Touching their foreheads together. "I'm just going to explain what happened from my side. They'll ask me questions and I'll answer. I need to show them their bodies. Only for if you want. Ok?"

[everatyourside]

Prompto had tried very hard to never take advantage of the power Noct and his family had, as the royal line of Lucis, but if there were ever a time he wished he could, it was now. He didn't want to answer questions, he just wanted to forget it happened. But even Noct couldn't keep them from a criminal investigation.

He wanted to curl up and sleep for a week straight, but he just nodded, casting his eyes back down. Of course, Noct would take him home as soon as he could. It was probably troubling him just as much that they couldn't leave.

Prompto wrapped the conversation with Ignis, not liking the answers, but not putting up any resistance either.

"Thanks Iggy," he said dully as he handed the phone back to Noct. Answer the questions, wait for Iggy, cooperate with the investigation.

Last time Noct left, bad things had happened, and he was hesitant to let go. The idea of Noct being out of his line of sight was enough to make him feel queasy.

"Please don't leave me alone," his voice cracked on the last couple words, throat thick as he tried to hold back more tears. Noct was close enough to easily scent, and he drank it in, slow, deep breaths as their foreheads touched.

"I won't look, but... I want to stay with you," he insisted.

Prompto had thought about joining the glaives, once upon a time, when it was one of the few options that would let him see Noct with any kind of regularity. He was friends with a number of them, saw them at the palace on a regular basis, and tried not to flinch away when he caught a couple of familiar faces in the ones who'd responded to the call.

They'd pulled Arctus free, a couple of glaives administering treatment. He was still unconscious, though Prompto didn't look very closely. One of the glaives he recognized was helping another to cordon off the scene in the storage room. A few more were securing the other entrances to the gym. A pair approached them as they left the locker room, and he was pretty sure he knew both. One was regularly stationed at Noct's apartment complex, the other had driven them on errands a few times, when Noct didn't feel like driving. Rheyas and Portia, he was pretty sure their names were.

They spoke to Noct first, and Prompto was relieved not to have to chime in. They directed them toward the storage room, explaining much of what Ignis had said would happen. Noct needed to talk to them about what happened, and they needed a statement from Prompto too. Separate, they made sure to emphasize, though he had a feeling it had more to do with sparing him the sight of the room than it did with making sure their stories were the same.

He squeezed Noct's hand once more before letting go, but didn't let Noct leave his sight, insisting he'd answer anything he just didn't want to lose sight of his mate. They found him a chair, handed him a bottle of water, which he clutched tightly between his fingers, remembering to sip only occasionally. Their questions were gentle, but thorough, and Prompto thought he saw Ignis arrive partway through and begin talking to the other glaives.

It was a struggle to answer, and he found himself trying to emotionally distance himself from what happened. He still couldn't say the word aloud; guys didn't get raped, it happened to other people, it couldn't happen here, this school was supposed to be safe. The glaives asked the important questions though, verified when Noct had arrived, how far the boys had gotten, what Prompto remembered of their words. Much as he hated thinking about it, that camera's evidence would confirm everything, that Noct was justified, that it was done in defense, that Prompto had told them no.

They mentioned a kit that still had to be run, photos taken of his injuries, and the thought of undressing to have them taken made him feel cold all over again, but he nodded. Cooperate, Ignis had insisted. He would.

[starless_sky]

Noctis assumed this was a time that Prompto could be exempt too. From portions of the investigation and the like. But it didn't make sense in practice. Being a part of the royal family they needed to be more thorough not less. The glaives would love to give Prompto a break on this but there really was no alternative. The most they could do was be gentler than the police would be. Noct didn't like it but he knew it had to be done and the sooner the better.

When Prompto's voice cracked it was all he could do not to cart him off then. He hated this, all of this. He turned to hold Prompto's shoulders in his hands.
"I won't. I'm not leaving you. You can look at whatever you want." he wanted to cry now. To fall to his knees and apologize for this mess. To beg Prompto's forgiveness for letting this happen. He'd known better than to trust this school. He'd known better than to leave him alone here. How could he let this happen?

The glaives knew Prompto, of course. They adored him. The upbeat, precious, slightly fragile partner of their prince. He was sweet, funny, kind, and just a bright soul all around. They understood clearly why Noctis had fallen for him. They'd protect him any cost and the ones he knew did consider him a friend. This call broke their hearts and they looked at him with sympathy but nodded to him. The least they could do was be gentle and try not to be any more invasive than they had to be. Not that that could be helped in this case.

As Prompto answered their questions an anger began to grow in the glaives. Not just for their friend but for the injustice of it all. This couldn't be the first time these boys had assaulted someone. And Prompto... Sweet innocent Prompto... This event set a divisive precedent for their prince. Some would hate him for this. But for those who knew the brutality of the attack it was clear that justice had been served. They served Noctis regardless but they were more loyal to him after this. He wouldn't suffer injustice lightly.

Noctis was still numb as he had to explain it all. He did so with such distance, he felt removed from his own actions, there was little passion in his retelling. He heard himself, he was clinical, almost bored as he explained kicking a door in and crushing his classmate's skull. He felt not one glimmer of remorse and he'd do it again. The only difference would be that he'd do it slower maybe. Drag it out. Sergius deserved to suffer.

As soon as Prompto left his side he turned to face him. His eyes didn't leave his mate even as they had separate tasks. More than once the glaives had to urge him to continue talking. He fell silent watching Prompto. He'd talk... But then remember his mate wasn't in his reach and his pulse would quicken and the hairs on his neck would stand up. He faced Prompto and answered what he needed to, trying to do it quickly.

As soon as he was finished he closed the distance between himself and Prompto. Just in time to contest the rape kit.

"Is that really necessary?"

"It's protocol, your highness. We need to offer it. If one is done it needs to be as soon as possible."

"I understand, but what more do you need to find? There's enough evidence to close your investigation."

"I... Didn't mean... " the glaives conducting the interview weren't privy to the camera. A small team was already reviewing that. The photos were damning enough but Arctus had taken one video. In it Prompto had struggled, had fought, had said no. Gaius and Sergius' faces had been in it. Arctus' voice was recognizable. It was more than enough on its own. The testimonies of Prompto and Noctis was doubly so. The record of what the glaives saw, the state of Prompto's clothes, his visible injuries, they were icing on the proverbial cake.

Noctis knew it. This wasn't the police, they didn't need to offer any explanation for why the prince wouldn't be brought to trial for this. They didn't need to compile evidence for a courtroom when this case would never see one. It wouldn't be popular with the parents but what could they say in the face of this evidence?

"I get you're doing your job. But we have enough to go on... I want to take him home."

The girl Portia looked sadly at Prompto. She wanted to hug him. She hoped her being here didn't ruin their friendship. She really did need to photograph his injuries but... Between Prompto's defeated look and prince Noctis she wasn't going to fight that one.

But she looked to Prompto for the command to stop or proceed.

Noctis crouched next to him. His voice soft. "Say the word and we're done here."

[everatyourside]

Prompto took a moment after answering their questions, taking a slow drink from his water bottle. Noct had finished up his portion of the questioning as well, and wasted no time in joining him. He struggled being in the spotlight when it was something positive, but this just felt torturous.

The idea of running the kit made him wince, but Prompto wanted to make sure there was enough evidence to keep Noct from any reprisals. If the camera wasn't damning enough, he knew his condition was glaring proof.

"It's okay Noct," Prompto licked his lips, swallowing hard. He'd much rather they finish everything they could now, so it never had to come up again.

As promised, they were thorough, but sympathetic, leading him back to the privacy of the locker room. He wasn't sure he wanted Noct to watch them do it, but the thought of going alone was almost too much.

"Can... Noct come too?"

Most of the injuries were on his face and the back of his head, and he held his hair back so they could document it, the bruises just starting to color, now that they'd had some time. The photos of his body were more difficult, but he tried his best to just endure it. The samples seemed more invasive, checking his nails for any remaining dna, the blood in his hair from the boy he'd knocked into, and though he assured them, Sergius hadn't left anything inside, they still had to swab a few embarrassing places.

But quickly enough, it was over. His head was pounding, cheek had started to swell on one side, he ached and felt wrung out in every possible way.

"Can we go?" he asked hopefully. The sooner they could leave, the sooner he could try to put it all from his mind.

[starless_sky]

Noct's eyes widened a bit when he heard 'it's okay' out of Prompto's mouth. That can't be right. He couldn't really be accepting the rape kit. The photos!? His mind went blank. The glaives gently led him to the locker room and Noctis had to shake himself loose. He expected a resounding 'yes please, take me away from here.' but... If this was what Prompto wanted to do...

It really rubbed him the wrong way to think that others would see his mate in the nude. That anyone should lay eye or hand on him, even those with good intentions, made him angry. A territorial rage that he had to quell as he crossed the gym floor to the locker room. They were only doing their job, they were doing what Prompto asked.

It was stupid to be mad about it, selfish even. He was thinking only of himself but they'd have to see Prompto's bite marks and while there was nothing to be ashamed of it stung. He had been proud of them when he made them, wanted there to be an occasion that they might appear and some onlooker would see. Stupid exhibitionist shit you think about in the heat of the moment. But those bites weren't really for show. Those were his and Prompto's and now they were out and... It felt like he was being robbed. Something was being ruined but he had to swallow that and be there for Prompto.

And that was the harder job. Watching the examination, taking stock of the damage while restraining his reaction. He wanted to cry. He was trying not to. He wanted to scream and go kill Arctus. Prompto's bruises, the blood, the grip marks... He wanted to throw up and then cry. It was too hard to be strong but he couldn't be powerless. Not now. Prompto needed him more than ever.

He still had to stand slightly behind Prompto so he wouldn't see the tears in his eyes. Some of the glaives were glancing at him and then away. His face felt hot but he just counted his breaths. He wanted to look normal by the time Prompto was done and when he asked to leave Noctis was all too eager.

"Yeah, come on." he put an arm around him and walked out of the gym to the side parking lot. Ignis had his car waiting for him and he just got in. Once Prompto was too he started the engine but didn't leave yet. He looked at Prompto, touched his hand, then leaned over and pulled him into a long hug.

[everatyourside]

Prompto felt at odds with himself throughout the process. He knew it was important, and he didn't want to be away from Noct, but he didn't want him to have to stay and watch either. Logically, it made sense. And he had to trust logic, because his emotions felt so far out of sorts that he didn't know if he'd ever be able to set them right again.

With any luck, the photos would never see the light of day, and Noct's family would be able to neatly sweep the mess away. But on the off chance that there was even a small likelihood it would go to trial or face close scrutiny, he didn't want anything to appear suspicious. It wasn't just Noct's reputation, it was the glaives, the entire royal family and how they conducted the investigation.

He hoped Noct wouldn't think less of him for it, but that was all but impossible now, wasn't it?

Prompto let Noct lead him out to the car, barely registering relief that it was finished. All he wanted was the hottest shower he could stand, and to sleep as long as his body would let him. He managed a polite nod toward Ignis, then took the passenger seat.

He didn't react as Noct touched his hand, couldn't raise his eyes to look at his mate, but when he pulled him close, arms tight around him, Prompto let out a shuddering, quiet breath, as if all the strength that was left in him escaped and he sagged against Noct, tears welling up again.

"I'll be okay," he promised, reaching out tentatively to return the hug. Prompto's hugs were usually so animated, full-body, wrapped tightly around his favorite person in the world. He knew it wasn't much, but he wanted to comfort Noctis too.

"They can't hurt us anymore."

[starless_sky]

The glaives were gentle as they could be. All of them speaking softly, telling Prompto he was brave, saying it wasn't his fault and that Arctus wouldn't bother him again. It was a small concession but it was all they could offer him as they had to do the clinical work of evidence collection.

Noctis stood with him through it all, trying to simply observe with a detached neutrality. He didn't want to be fighting tears and failing. He didn't want to remember the glaives' sympathetic looks. It hurt watching all this. This huge mess Prompto had now thanks to those asswipes.

Prompto wasn't wrong. His father's influence could make this disappear or just never come up in the first place. Gaius and Sergius' parents would have something to say about it, maybe they'd have to settle with them somehow or maybe they'd just hang them out to dry. His father would have a headache handling this but Noctis couldn't bring himself to feel bad about it. One look at the photos and Regis would be on their side, he was sure.

Once they were away in the car Noctis hoped things might start to get back to normal. Prompto's fear might melt away slowly and he could begin to return to his usual self. At least with him, even just at home... maybe? Hopefully? That hug was weak, it wasn't the good sign Noctis was hoping for but that was asking too much right now. He wanted to be comforted that this wasn't going to change his mate forever for the worse. Prompto seemed to understand that and Noctis chided himself when he promised he'd be alright. The tears welled up and he tried to stifle his rough breathing or his sniffing but it didn't work.

"But they didn't..." that was a lie. He couldn't even finish the statement. They did hurt him. Hurting Prompto was the same as hurting him, and he'd have to live in a world now where he hadn't kept his mate safe in his time of need. It was driven home by the scent... their scents were all on Prompto, masked by his gym clothes but still present to a keen nose. Another alpha's scent was easy to pick up and he could spot even small changes in Prompto's natural scent. It made that territorial possession bubble up in him.

"We're going to get through this together just like everything else. Just tell me how you're feeling as we go. I will too." which was saying a lot for him. He knew he was the type to bottle and keep things to himself. He was a terrible communicator at the best of times but he knew enough to know this could make or break them. Either one of them.

And maybe Ignis had talked to him briefly about it while they were alone.

He put the car in drive and headed home. He used the private royal lanes to get there faster. He didn't let go of Prompto's hand until they were in their apartment with the door locked. Noct tugged his mate along down the hallway, into the living area, and onto the couch. In the fridge were several energy drinks he'd turned into various levels of potions. Mostly they were for after-workout use to make sure their legs weren't sore the next day. He used them on himself sometimes when his back flared up too.

"Hold still." he almost whispered as he broke the glass over Prompto's head and the liquid glowed around him. "That should help...if you need more I made a whole pack in the fridge..." suddenly he didn't know what to say. What could he say? He'd let Prompto down and on top of that what do you even say now? 'Sorry?' 'it's going to get better?' 'I still love you?'

He opted to sit at Prompto's side and reach for a hug again. He needed to cry, Prompto must too. Maybe.... they could do it together? At least Prompto could. He was safe now. Nobody could hurt him here.

"It's over now... you're safe here. I'm here, nothing can happen here. You were really brave, I'm proud of you." as much as he wanted to fold over and cry like a baby he had to remember he was still Prompto's Alpha and he needed his Alpha more than ever. He could focus on that to get through this, he could do what his mate needed. That was the least he could do after today.

[everatyourside]

Getting the news that he was an Omega had been difficult. It wasn't something he'd ever considered, had always assumed he was a Beta, but when he went through his first heat, he knew how close to danger he'd come. He'd been so lucky to have Noct, someone who loved him regardless of what he was, as his Alpha.

But he'd taken it for granted. He'd never grown up worried about an Alpha or several Alphas cornering him. He hadn't been a pretty kid, he hadn't thought he was an Omega, he never thought he'd have to try to protect himself from three of them at once.

What was even more painful was seeing how it affected Noct. Prompto saw him as strong and confident, fiercely loyal, and the kindest person he knew. Watching him transform with rage like an avenging angel of death on those who'd done them harm had been startling, the aftermath grisly and dark. It broke his heart to see Noct so overcome. Prompto pulled a little tighter, hoping it would ease some of Noct's worry.

Noct wanted him to talk about how he felt. That... was hard. But as Noct drove back to their apartment, he tried to put it into words. Communication was important, they'd been doing so much better, learning how to talk problems out. He waited til they were in the safety of their apartment though, mulling the thoughts over in quiet contemplation as he let Noct guide him.

The potion was a soothing balm on his injuries; the swelling in his cheek went down and the lump on his head didn't feel like it throbbed with its very own heartbeat. Maybe he'd ask for another after he took a shower, just to clear the rest of the lingering effects.

"Feels better," he said with some gratitude and a faint ghost of a smile. "I really just... wanna take a hot shower so I don't have to smell like this anymore and..."

Prompto shrank in on himself a little, shoulders hunched and head lowering, knees drawn together so he took up only the smallest amount of space. Brave? Proud? He was nothing like that. He didn't pull away from Noct's embrace, but he didn't look up to see his face either, could hardly pull his eyes up from the floor.

"I'm not..." he stopped before he finished the thought, lower lip shaking.

"I feel so stupid. They were asking me about photography, I thought I could help. I..." he shook his head. "They said they saw my marks in gym class, they thought I was just... I dunno... easy... submissive. I should've been more careful."

He'd been the one to ask for them, begged Noct to leave his marks as a permanent reminder of how much they loved eachother. It made him sick that it could be twisted like that, that they'd thought he could be loyal to anyone but Noctis.

"But-" he corrected quickly, "but they didn't mark me, they didn't get that far." At least some small part of him was still intact.

"I just... I feel like I failed you, Noct," he sniffled, lowering his head and burying it in Noctis' side. "I feel dirty and... and tainted and... gods, like I can't even understand how you'd want to touch me ever again, but..."

He swallowed hard, hesitating. The words were important, and just months ago, he knew he wouldn't have had the courage to say them.

"But I want you to," he couldn't stop the tears at that, "I want you to hold me and love me and let me stay. I want to write over all these bad memories with new and better ones til there's no part left of me that still remembers."

[starless_sky]

Noctis had feared this very situation the day they came home in Prompto's first heat. He was relieved and overjoyed he got to be Prompto's Alpha and stupidly he'd thought the danger was mostly behind them. He hadn't thought his classmates were that aggressive... his mistake. He hadn't done a strong enough job preparing Prompto for the risks of other Alphas. He hadn't thought much of it beyond the fact that he'd protect Prompto himself.

But he couldn't always be there to watch his mate, sometimes he'd have to fend for himself, it was inevitable. He didn't want to have to transform into a murderous avenger like he had today. Prompto saw all that, he couldn't be the same gentle boyfriend he was before. He'd always be just one provocation away from executing someone else. He knew this. Didn't deny it, and in fact, he'd own it proudly. As any Alpha should. What was the point of being a bonded Alpha and a prince if you couldn't murder your enemies?

Prompto's skin looked a lot better. He may need another elixir later. His body would need a bit more time to bring down the swelling and such but he'd use another one if he had to. Or the whole fucking fridge. Whatever Prompto needed to be completely healed so he didn't feel or notice anything they did to him.

But then Prompto was talking and the way he shrank was pitiful. They'd made so much progress, Noct thought, and now Prompto was back to trying to take up as little space as possible. He just pulled him in close and listened.

"...They didn't give you any reason not to trust them. You weren't wrong for going with them." as an Alpha, he forgives Prompto for taking orders from other Alphas. It was a temptation he couldn't resist. Besides he was trying to be sociable. But the marks thing... that bothered him. People assume something about his mate and thought they ought to help themselves. If they'd flirted that would be one thing but he knew the truth. They thought that nobody would care enough to come looking for Prompto and that he was awkward enough he might not be believed. On top of that, they had a good chance of Prompto being too ashamed to come forward about the attack.

"You couldn't have failed me. You didn't do anything wrong." he let his fingers gently pet through Prompto's hair. "They made a decision to hurt you... oh, Prompto. You're not dirty or tainted. You're just a little banged up. But we can fix that. I love you no matter what, that hasn't changed..."

He nuzzled him then, his lips brushing the shell of Prompto's ear. "I feel the same way though... I want to take you into the shower and then put my scent on you again just like new. We'll get through it together... if you'll let me go with you in the bathroom." and to bed... if that's what Prompto was wanting. Noctis felt guilty wanting to bed his mate at a time like this, perhaps it was just territorialism but he wanted to make Prompto his again. Or... refresh his claim so to speak. It would make them both feel better, he thought.

"I love you... no matter what happens. I'll always want you and nothing can change that."

[everatyourside]

Prompto had been playing that scene on repeat for hours now, thinking if he'd done or said something different, if he'd just been smarter, somehow it would have gone differently. But-

"I wasn't?" his voice cracked on the last word, lower lip trembling. He so badly wanted that to be true. The little voice in his head told him otherwise, but Noct had proven time and again that Prompto tended to overanalyze and blame himself or think himself into circles of nonsensical logic when he was upset. Just hearing that Noct didn't think he'd done anything wrong... it felt like a weight had loosed around his chest.

He wrapped his arms around Noct's waist, squeezing as tight as he could as Noct pet his hair gently and spoke such sweet and comforting words.

"I was so worried," he whimpered, sniffling occasionally into Noct's shirt. "That you wouldn't- wouldn't want me anymore... and I didn't want to go with them. I... you know I only want you, Noct. I've only ever wanted to be with you."

As Noctis leaned in to nuzzle against him, Prompto didn't waver or stiffen, he still ducked his head, but he leaned into the affectionate gesture. More than anything, he wanted the smell of the other Alphas off of him, any trace of where they'd touched him, what they'd done, he wanted it gone. He was self-conscious about Noct coming with him, seeing everything up close, even lightly healed over as it was, but if it was something that would help them both, he wanted to try.

He looked up at Noct, eyes watery and red-rimmed and nodded, "Would that... be okay?"

Prompto clung tightly once more and nodded in understanding. It was hard to make himself believe it, but Noct was still here beside him, even after everything had happened.

"Love you too," he said softly, "no matter what."

[starless_sky]

"No, you weren't wrong. Anyone would have gone with them, you have a good heart. You want to help people and that's one of your best qualities. They took advantage of that, it wasn't your fault." as upset as Prompto was, Noct was glad he was holding him and letting his emotions show. They still had that connection and he had to make sure that one didn't disappear.

He hugged him tighter, nuzzled him longer, let his fingers wander from Prompto's hair to his shoulders. He could gently rub out a few knots of tension there.

"I was worried you wouldn't want me anymore. I'm the one who failed... I know you're loyal, Prompto... do you think I would consider this cheating?" it sounded foolish but if that's how Prompto felt... "Just because it's a sexual attack doesn't make it sex. It doesn't make it consensual. It doesn't change us. I'm still going to be with you for the rest of our lives, through hell or high water."

The way Prompto lowered his head to avoid his gaze at first... it was sad. Noctis knew he needed some coaxing to come out of his shell again. Maybe a shower could relieve some of that. It would remove the smell of those others. That was probably setting off Prompto's stress responses all by themselves, let alone what he'd just been through.

"Of course it's okay. Whatever you want... I need it too. To just... be close to you." he didn't want Prompto out of his sight honestly. He was calm if they were together and it bothered him to consider Prompto alone taking stock of his injuries. He wanted to be with him and take stock of it together. "Come on." he reached down and slipped his arms around Prompto, lifting him up into a bridal carry down the hall to his bathroom.

The immense shower was a safe haven away from all stresses, with the overhead waterfall setting and the bench to rest on. It was large enough to fit Noct's old bed into it. The prince stepped into the bathroom and sat Prompto down on the side of their tub. From there he began to strip them both. All these clothes needed to be washed. Into the hamper, they went.

He turned on the hot water and let it steam a bit before stepping under it first. He hissed then turned the temperature down a notch. "Not that much... alright... I think it's ok now. It's safe." he held his hand out to Prompto. Standing together under the spray he took his mate's jaw in his hands. His freckles were all in place, his eyes, though puffy and cried-out were still beautiful. Like purple and blue galaxies. His injuries were apparent still and Noct just shook his head softly.

"No matter what they did to you... they could never change this, they could never take this away from us." he started to push Prompto's hair back. He wanted Prompto to let him nurture him through this, rather than try to disappear alone to nurse his wounds and come back when he felt presentable. It was better to be together in his mind. Especially in bad times.

"If you can forgive me... I'm the one who failed you."

[everatyourside]

Anyone would have made the same choice? Prompto tried to reconcile it, to accept that he wasn't in the wrong, but it was a hard logical climb. The relief he felt though, was genuine. He didn't argue, just let himself be content with the soft touches and casual intimacy of the moment. He could feel himself begin to relax, but-

Noct blamed himself?!

"No!" he blurted, turning so he could see Noct's face. His frantic eyes were searching, his surprise apparent.

"Noct, I would never blame you- That's- You couldn't have known either! You didn't fail, you saved me. I..." Prompto glanced down, uncertain of himself. He couldn't even fathom the idea of intentionally cheating on Noctis. There was no one else, ever, in his mind, but his body, it had responded to their touches> While he didn't want anything to do with them, his body was sensitive, attentive to touch; it was instinctual, his body was meant to please an Alpha, and even if his mind hadn't betrayed him, he felt like his body had.

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

When Noct changed the topic to get them both showered, he could do little more than hold on tightly as Noct picked him up and headed to the large bathroom. He liked feeling small and held firmly in those arms, and clung to Noct's shirt as they went.

The undressing was a little harder to reconcile, and he found himself crossing his slender arms over pale skin in a fragile attempt at modesty, if only to hide the scratches and bruises that still remained. But Noct busied himself with the shower, setting the water to a warm spray that danced near his feet. He took the outstretched hand with only slight hesitation, feeling the water run down over his body. He wanted to scrub away any remnants the other Alphas had left behind til nothing was left.

Noct pulled him in close, gazing into his eyes, and it was hard not to look away, those dark blue eyes that could somehow fluctuate between soft and intense at a moment's notice. He closed his eyes as Noctis swept his hair back, flinching slightly and sucking in a sharp breath. It made the the bruises more obvious, he was sure.

"You didn't do anything wrong, Noct. You couldn't have known anymore than I could have," he said softly, "there's nothing to forgive."

[starless_sky]

He couldn't force-feed this all to Prompto now. He needed time to come to these conclusions himself. There was nothing odd or strange about him going with classmates to another room when literally everyone else was having a free hour. It wasn't strange to take photos when everyone was taking them for the school yearbook. It wasn't weird to follow three very popular guys in school who had no reputation for harming others.

He blinked when Prompto suddenly sprang to life. Such animation, he was almost like his old self again but... urgent. "If it wasn't my fault then it definitely wasn't yours. But you need to come to that on your own." he is confused at first about why Prompto looks confused. But slowly he starts to imagine. How could Prompto have betrayed him... unless... oh. He had to chew on that for a bit.

In the meantime, it was time for a shower. Poor Prompto looked like a kicked puppy trying to ask for approval and hide his shame at once. Noct tried to act as normal as possible. Moving clothes to the hamper, getting the water started, pulling Prompto under the spray. Using expensive shampoo.

He wanted to expose his bruises, to see it all and know Prompto' body, to look at the altered landscape and move on with him. He'd bring him another few potions later. Maybe he'd break them over Prompto when he was sleeping.

"Whatever reaction you had to them... it was normal..." he said it before he could think too hard about it and stop himself. It's nothing to be ashamed of. It's just how your body will respond and they knew it. It's okay. Your body still knows it's not me but if they press the right buttons they can make a situation that works for them. It's not you." He massaged Prompto's temples and whispered softly.

"...If there's nothing to forgive for me then there's nothing to forgive for you either. I want to hear you say it."

[everatyourside]

Prompto almost spoke, but hesitated, trying to digest the words. Noctis sounded so certain, and Prompto certainly wanted to believe it was true. It was hard not to remember how he'd reacted, the sounds he'd made. If Noct hadn't gotten there in time, was what the Alphas said true? Would he have been disloyal? Begged for it?

He didn't want to consider it.

"Yeah... okay," was all he managed instead.

Prompto stayed still as Noct helped wash his hair, but had a hard time doing much more than simply allowing Noctis to check his bruises, and even that was difficult. His stance was rigid, trembling slightly, breathing stilted.

And, as if reading everything he hadn't spoken, Noct got right to the heart of the problem and Prompto sucked in a harsh breath, averting his eyes. Did he really mean that?

His trembling worsened, and he could feel his eyes growing hot with unshed tears, his throat thick with words he wasn't sure he could force out. Noct's hands were steady on his temples, a gentle pressure, but his mind and body were at war with the order.

"I..."

Noct wanted to hear him say it, he needed to obey, but it felt like the words were ground out of him, and he couldn't meet Noct's eyes.

"I... I didn't do anything wrong," he said, voice quiet and tone uncertain. "So there's... nothing to forgive."

[starless_sky]

He may have but Noctis would be here to tell him that that too, wasn't his fault. It would have been a manipulation. Noctis never needed to coerce Prompto in such a way, didn't need to use his physical weaknesses or bites to seduce him. Human bodies are fallible and even in cases like this they are able to fall prey. There's so much public opinion that a bonded Omega couldn't get wet for anyone but their Alpha but Noctis had enough education to know that simply wasn't true. While he may not have wanted it, Prompto's body would have responded sexually even to an attack.

They'd have to work on accepting that. Maybe he'd leave that particular reading out for Prompto to look through.

Even now, Noctis knew he had so much ground to cover to help Prompto accept his innocence but he felt like an overbearing teacher right now. He was forcing too much and the way his mate just uttered the words made Noctis check himself. He wanted Prompto to be his old self again. He felt like it was his job to get him there and if he let Prompto linger in this painful place he was failing him as a mate. Any time Prompto lingered in this uncertainty was a time he was failing him.

It wasn't true but it was how he felt. He had to stop though or he'd start resembling the attackers from today. The ah... former attackers. Even Arctus was finished harming others.

"Good... that's enough for now." he rinsed the shampoo from Prompto's hair and touched their foreheads together. He said nothing but just listened to the water pour around them and felt his mate with him. His body against his own, his hands over Prompto's skin. He was safe, he was alive, he was here. He was safe in their nest, he was safe behind his locked doors.

He took Prompto's face in his hands. His bruises were trying to fade but they were still prominent. He circled his thumb gently over a dark one and leaned in slowly. He paused to give Prompto a chance to refuse the gesture before he pressed a slow but delicate kiss over it. Then the next bruise and the one after that.

[everatyourside]

It would be a while before Prompto could reconcile his guilt, but Noct's insistence of his innocence helped. His driving need to submit to his Alpha's will made it almost instinctual to want to believe in him. Not that he didn't want to believe it was true, but with so many years of ingrained selfdeprication, it was hard to come to terms with.

He wanted to be better for Noctis, he wanted this chapter of events to be closed and done and for things to go back to the way they were. He didn't want to think about the other Alphas or the pain or the humiliation.

His skin flushed lightly at the praise, and his trembling eased, though he wanted to hide his face. Noct brushed a thumb over the bruise on his cheek, where Sergius had punched him across the face, knocking him to the floor. He flinched, but didn't refuse as Noct leaned in, the affectionate gestures enough to slowly ease his tension.

[starless_sky]

Noctis would be with him every step of the way and he'd be celebrating with him when he finally felt comfortable saying this wasn't his fault. Until then he'd stay here and insist Prompto was innocent. He didn't want to use his Alpha status to sway his mate but... if it helped him... It is just unfortunate that this attack tapped into the self-esteem issues Prompto had been working through and set him back.

He wanted to go back in time and just prevent this from happening. If he could he would but they had to move on.

This was delicate but Prompto was letting him do this and he seemed to be shaking less. The water was steaming hot, he knew it wasn't that he was cold but rather, upset. Who could blame him? He wanted to bring some kind of creature comfort back to this. He pet Prompto's hair back and kissed softly over his face. Over every mark and bruise, over each eye, on his cheeks, his temples. His hands moved around Prompto to his back, pulling him in closer.

[everatyourside]

Every breath was a reassurance, every gesture a promise, and he hoped he could take in enough to feel normal again, feel like he wasn't broken or lesser or unworthy. Noct was trying so hard, working to put his pieces back together so he could feel whole again.

Noct pulled him closer and he complied, pressing skin to skin as close as his mate would allow and resting his head against Noct's shoulder. It wasn't much, as far as reciprocation, but he wanted Noct to know he cared, that he wanted this, consented to it. It took an effort, but he moved his arms from where they were held defensively in front of him, to carefully reach out and touch Noct instead, following the trails and rivulets of water as they ran down his chest.

[starless_sky]

It wasn't much but he'd take it. Prompto was trying and gods bless his soul. He was willing to go along with anything to feel better. Noct didn't think it would work necessarily but he'd try it. Anything to get Prompto even a little farther through his progress.

He sighed when Prompto touched him. They'd been doing it regularly right up until today but it already felt like a new surprising thing to be claimed by his mate. He breathed heavier. His body wasn't hard to get excited if Prompto wanted to continue.