~3rd Person POV~

"It finally stopped raining," Noctis comments, stretching his arms and legs as the group reaches Hammerhead. Early in the morning, (Y/n) had received a call from a frantic Cindy. The mechanic had asked for them to return to Hammerhead for there was a crisis that needed their attention.

"I wonder what had Cindy so flabbergasted over the phone," (Y/n) ponders, cradling her chin in deep thought.

"Whatever it is, it needs our attention right away," Gladio said.

Prompto sidled up to (Y/n), worry crossing his features. Before he could voice his opinion, Cindy stormed over with sweat dripping down her forehead. "Thank y'all for comin' so quick. Sorry 'bout shouting in the phone, darlin'." Her apologetic gaze falling onto (Y/n).

"Don't worry about it, Cindy. What seems to be the problem?" She asked.

"A bandersnatch has been spotted not far from 'ere. Darned thing is slowly makin' its way to the garage. I'm 'fraid it's already killed countless of hunters in the area," she explains.

"Troublesome, indeed," Ignis said.

"We've never taken on a bandersnatch before. Can we really handle this?" Prompto worriedly questioned his friends and lover. (Y/n) smiled and Prompto knew exactly what she was thinking. "Y-You can't, (Y/n)!"

"Prom, I think it's about time," she whispers to him.

"B-But..."

"It'll be fine, sweetheart. They're our friends."

Prompto took (Y/n)'s hand in his, giving it a tight squeeze. "Okay, but if they try to hurt you-"

(Y/n) pecked him on the cheek. "I know you will protect me, Prom."

"Hey, what're you two chattin' about?" Gladio asked with crossed arms.

"Private affairs," she simply replies. The shield raised a brow at her quick response, but decided to ignore the subject.

"Will y'all help us out?" Cindy asked.

"We've got you covered," Noctis reassures the young mechanic.

At the prince's words, Prompto pulled (Y/n) closer by her hand and entwined their fingers. "Let's get this over with."

"Yes, let's," Ignis said.

The five decided to head out on foot and search for the prowling beast. Prompto noticed how (Y/n) was saving energy by keeping at his pace and staying by his side. She sent him a gentle smile when she spotted him staring at her from the corner of his eye. That one gesture was enough to relax him and organize his thoughts.

"For something that's huge, it's hard to find," Noctis gripes with a sigh as they came to a stop for a short break from running so far.

"Trust me when I say this: it's close-by," (Y/n) states.

"How do you-"A loud roar silenced the prince. The young woman nods towards where the ear-splitting bellow came from. Noctis dropped the question and everyone followed in the right direction.

With the bandersnatch in sight, the group hid behind a small rock formation and watched the huge creature pace back and forth. "We must exercise caution," Ignis whispers.

"And we need a plan," Gladio adds.

(Y/n) looked at Prompto, waiting for his approval. When he nodded, she spoke up. "No plan necessary. I'll handle it."

"You're the smallest one out of all of us. How're you gonna handle that thing all by yourself?" Gladio asked, tone brimming with annoyance.

"Better to show than tell," she replied. When she jumped out and charged at the bandersnatch, they all called out to her to desperately stop, except for Prompto. This confused the others and Noctis questioned his strange behavior. "Your girlfriend is runnin' to her death and you're not gonna stop her?!"

"If we stay out of her way, it'll be easier for her to fight. We discussed this before we came here," he said, glaring at his best friend.

"What're you hiding from us, Prompto?" Gladio inquired.

"Just... just watch."

The three turned their full attention to (Y/n). The first thing they noticed was her speed before her body was engulfed in a strange light. When they were able to see her again, she was no longer human.

Noctis, Gladio, and Ignis couldn't believe what they were seeing. Their eyes were glued to the fox as she jumped onto the bandersnatch and bit straight through its tough skin. The monster howled out in pain, desperately trying to shake (Y/n) off.

"W-What the hell..." Noctis murmured beside Prompto.

"We should've told you earlier, but... we were scared," Prompto confesses.

"(Y/n)'s a Guardian, correct?" Ignis asked, interjecting himself into the conversation. Prompto nods to confirm his question. "How did you meet such a powerful being?"

"She's the reason I was able to escape Niflheim. It's all thanks to her that I was even able to reach Insomnia, let alone Lucis. (Y/n) broke into the lab I was being held in and killed all the scientists in the facility. She broke her contract as Niflheim's Guardian just to save me. After she freed me from the lab, she carried me all the way to Lucis and into Insomnia. We've been together ever since. I owe (Y/n) my entire life."

"You only ever told us about the lab, not how you escaped. Glad you finally did," Noctis beamed, patting Prompto on the back.

"You're... You're not mad?" The blonde peered through his eyelashes.

"Why would I be? It's not like you're working for the empire and you said it yourself that (Y/n) broke her contract with Niflheim, which means she's no longer tied to those bastards. I'd say you're both Lucians and my friends."

"(Y/n) would be so happy to hear this," Prompto said with his own smile.

"I'll make sure she knows, Prompto."

Gladio watched the fight closely, eyeing (Y/n) as she dodged each and every attack the bandersnatch sent her way. "Well, that explains why she never seems to tire out during training."

"(Y/n) is a wandering Guardian. Perhaps it is in our best interest for His Highness to make a contract with her," Ignis said, gazing at Noctis.

"Lucis doesn't have a Guardian. Not even my dad could find one during his travels. But..." Noctis stared at the marksman. "It's up to you and (Y/n). I won't tether her to another contract if you and her disagree."

"She told me about the strict contract she had made with the empire. She was more of a prisoner than a normal human being. I think Niflheim wanted her just for her powers," Prompto admits.

"Not surprised. This is the empire we're talkin' about," Gladio said.

"We'll discuss the contract later. For now, we wait," Ignis spoke.

Prompto sat on-edge as the battle continued. (Y/n) didn't even have a single scratch on her as she was able to take one of the bandersnatch's legs off. It fell to ground, their surroundings shaking from the impact of its heavy body. Blood spurted from the missing appendage, creating a large pool under the monster. (Y/n) inhaled deeply before fire shot out of her mouth, burning the creature to a crisp. Due to the blood loss and the burning flames, the bandersnatch was slew.

The boys emerged from their hiding place and walked towards the dead monster. Noctis, Gladio, and Ignis were cautious while approaching (Y/n), but Prompto broke out into a sprint the moment she jumped off the bandersnatch's charred body. He slung his arms around her neck, the force of their bodies colliding causing (Y/n) to fall on her side. Prompto laughed as he saw her eyes widen as they fell. He hugged her tightly, refusing to let go. "I told them everything."

(Y/n) nodded, showing the best smile she could in this form. Her tails whipped around as she nuzzled her damp, cold nose against Prompto's warm cheek. He buried his hands further into her red and gray fur at the ticklish sensation. (Y/n) rolled over with him still attached to her and rested on her stomach. She curled her legs underneath her and bathed in Prompto's lovable embrace.

The others reached the couple, still skeptical and on-edge about (Y/n)'s current state. She won't attack Prompto, but they still weren't sure if she wouldn't pounce on them. Prompto senses their hesitation and glanced at his friends. "She's not gonna hurt you, guys. (Y/n)'s a big ole sweetheart!"

Noctis took a few steps towards (Y/n), stoping directly in front of her. Prompto moved to her back while the prince raised a timid hand and reached out to touch her, but he stopped in mid-air. When her glowing amber eyes met his sapphire ones, he finally built up the courage to place his hand on the top of her head and stroke her gleaming fur. (Y/n) closed her eyes at the gentle and relaxing sensation, causing Noctis to smile at her expression. "We've got nothin' to worry about."

Ignis and Gladio stood on either side of the prince, eyes trained on the large fox in front of them. When she opened her eyes, the two smiled at her in reassurance. Noctis kept stroking her fur until Ignis spoke up. "We should inform Cindy of the slain bandersnatch. Prompto, (Y/n), please do find a haven for us to spend the night."

"Roger that!" Prompto announces. (Y/n) got to her feet with the cameraman on her back and nodded. Clinging to her fur gently, the boy held on as she began walking towards the nearest haven. The others returned back to Hammerhead and informed Cindy about the dead monster.

-Brackham Haven-

The duo arrived at Brackham Haven in a few minutes. The boy hopped off the fox's back while she curled up on the cool stone. With nothing to do, they waited for the others to arrive with camping gear. As Prompto chatted to (Y/n), her head and ears shot up as she picked up the sound of a familiar engine. "Do you hear them?"

(Y/n) nods and stands. Prompto follows after her as they make their way to where the Regalia was parked. When Noctis turned, he nearly jumped out of his skin when (Y/n) was standing almost directly behind him. "Geez, how were able to sneak up on me?"

"Her paws are really soft. That's why she doesn't make a sound when she walks," Prompto answered in (Y/n)'s place.

"Well, that explains that. You've had your heart attack for the day, Noct," Gladio states.

"Yeah, I'll say. Just glad she's on our side or I would've been eaten." Noctis stares up at the fox. (Y/n) lowered her head, pushing the prince towards the trunk. "Alright, alright. I'm going."

(Y/n) laid down, allowing Gladio to put whatever she could carry on her back. With her help, they would only need to make one trip to the car. "You should do this more often, (Y/n)," the shield chortles.

"One trip is more enjoyable than two," Ignis states.

"Hey, she's not a pack-mule!" Prompto glared at the brute.

"Didn't mean it like that, pipsqueak. All I meant was that she's really helpful in this form to carry heavy things that usually take two people."

Ignoring their banter, (Y/n) stood and headed back to the haven with Noctis and Ignis beside her. Prompto stormed after them while Gladio smirked at the running blonde.

A few minutes flew by and the haven was all set up for the night. The sun had just set and everyone sat around the fire except (Y/n) and Prompto. The fox had curled up at the edge of the haven to make sure she wouldn't knock anything over. Prompto was leaning into her side with her head resting in his lap. The boy noticed how tired she was and stroked behind her ears, making her fall asleep within minutes.

Noctis watched the scene, Ignis' words from earlier today ringing in his mind. He liked the idea of the contract, but he didn't wish to tether (Y/n) to Lucis. The tactician read the prince's face with ease. "Noct, you are the one whom determines the terms of the contract. Do not be frightened of tethering (Y/n) to Lucis. If you wish for her to become Guardian of this region, be doubly sure the terms do not limit her interaction with other regions."

"He's right, Noct," Prompto said, running both hands through (Y/n)'s fur. "You're not like the emperor. I know you wouldn't treat (Y/n) like a tool and lock her up."

"She's asleep right now. I'll ask her opinion in the morning," the raven-haired boy said. "What're the benefits of a contract, Specs?"

"With a contract, (Y/n)'s abilities as a Guardian would increase tremendously. Lucis will gain a benefactor to aid in the waging war and a loyal friend."

"Won't she get killed if Noct were to send her into battle against an enormous army?" Gladio ponders.

"With the empire lacking a Guardian, there is no cause for concern. A Guardian can only kill another Guardian."

"So, she's basically immortal against Niflheim's army?" Prompto questioned.

"If the empire does not find another Guardian, then yes."

"This... This is a lot to take in. Now I'm not so sure I want to make a contract with her. I couldn't possibly send her to war knowing Prompto loves her so much," Noctis said, slumping back in his seat.

"As long as Niflheim doesn't find another Guardian, I have no issues. I mean, I still don't like the fact of her joining the war, but... I know (Y/n) would do anything to keep all of us safe from the empire," Prompto admits, leaning his head against (Y/n)'s.

"Guess we all need to sleep on this," Gladio said, heading over to the tent.

"Indeed," Ignis concurs, joining the shield.

When Noctis stepped towards the tent, he noticed Prompto didn't even budge an inch. "You comin', buddy?"

"Nah, I'm comfortable where I am. (Y/n)'s really soft, better than any bed I've slept on. I'll see ya in the mornin'."

Noctis laughed before sharing a small "good night" to the boy. Once the prince was out of sight, Prompto leaned his head back against (Y/n)'s side, staring up at the stars as he bathed in her warmth. Her head remained in his lap while her tails curled beside him in her sleeping state. With a smile on his face, Prompto was able to fall asleep in her warmth.

-Next Morning-

Waking the next morning, Prompto found himself still beside (Y/n). She was still in her fox form, which confused him a little. He thought she would've transformed back to her human-self, but she remained in her second form. It had been awhile since she used this form and she must've found it more relaxing after staying human for so long.

When he wiped the grogginess from his eyes, Prompto felt something soft brush against his cheek. With his vision cleared, he noticed it was one of (Y/n)'s tails tickling his cheek. She smiled down at him and continued to taunt him with her tail. He giggled at the sensation, trying to push the soft appendage away. "S-Stop, (Y/n)!" He laughs.

After turning him into a panting mess, (Y/n) removes her tail from his cheek and allowed him to stand up. Following suit, she stood up and stretched her limbs with a small, silent yawn escaping her mouth. Ignis was up and preparing breakfast while Gladio and Noctis were still sleeping. (Y/n) hopped off the haven and strode around the area for awhile. Prompto sat at the edge of the frigid stone, watching as she enjoyed her fox form a little longer.

When she suddenly came to a stop, Prompto noticed her fur was on-end. He flew to his feet, grabbing Ignis' attention. The strategist glanced in the direction (Y/n) was glaring and noticed a couple of airships heading straight for them. He ran into the tent and woke the others to warn them of the danger. Prompto's eyes widened at the sight. "(Y/n)!" He desperately shouts.

Ignoring him, (Y/n) growled lowly and took an offensive stance. Once the airships were closer, she sped off and attacked before they could even put up a fight. Prompto gasped at the sight, worry gnawing at every cell in his body. When he tried to join her, Gladio grabbed the boy and pinned his arms behind his back. "Let me go! I have to help her!" He struggled against the brute, desperately trying to break free.

"Calm down, Prom. Remember what Specs said yesterday? She can handle this on her own," Noctis reassures.

The four boys watched as the airships halted their advance towards them. (Y/n) lowered her head as a casting ring appeared underneath her.

Fire erupted from the cores of the airships, causing both to explode within seconds. Pieces of the airships and Magiteks scattered everywhere after the roaring combustion. As the pieces rained down around her, (Y/n) transformed into her human-self and let out a huge sigh. "Whew, it's been so long since I got to use such powerful magic."

The moment she turned back to return to the haven, she was swept up in a warm and strong embrace with a yelp. "Are you okay?" A worried Prompto asked.

(Y/n) smiled, hugging him back. "I'm fine, Prom. I've handled much worse than a couple of Niflheim airships."

"I-I know. It's just... I worry about you so much."

"I'm not disappearing anytime soon, sweetie."

Prompto didn't hesitate and kissed her passionately, not caring who was watching. The sudden intensity caught (Y/n) off-guard, but she kissed back with the same passion.

The kiss didn't last long because they knew the others would catch up, eventually. Just as they thought, the missing trio arrived a few minutes later. (Y/n) smiled at them as Prompto freed her from his embrace. "What a way to wake up, huh?"

"(Y/n), can I ask you something?" Noctis asked, his serious tone knocking away her smile.

"Ask away, Noct," she said.

"Would you agree to make a contract with me?"

(Y/n) was a little shocked, but it was replaced with her usual happy attitude. "I know Prompto has told you about my previous contract with Niflheim that Emperor Iedolas concocted." Noctis tensed, fearing she would say no. After a long pause, (Y/n) continued. "But I know you aren't like him. You have a kind heart and only wish for the best."

Noctis' eyes widened. "Then, you will..."

"Yes, I will make a contract with you." The prince was still in shock at her response. (Y/n) laughed at his expression and placed her hands on her hips. "Are you ready?"

"Uh... Yeah, let's do this."

(Y/n) reached out to Noctis, her palms open to the sky. The boy placed his hands in hers, allowing her to lead. She chanted a spell that was in an unknown language. It created a strong gust around the two, whipping their hair. The same magic circle he saw earlier appeared underneath them as the incantation continued.

The wind died down as (Y/n) finished the contract. Noctis let go of her hands when he and the others felt a burning sensation emanating form their wrists. The prince looked at his wrist, noticing a mark that resembled a fox.

"What's this?" He asked, running his fingers over the new marking.

"Every Guardian has a symbol. Mine, of course, is a fox. All those tied to the royal line receive the marking as a symbol of my contract to the future King and protector of Lucis."

Prompto pulled off his glove, glancing at where he felt the sudden pain. When he realized the barcode that once tainted his wrist was replaced with (Y/n)'s symbol, he gasped in shock and joy. The one thing that haunted him for years was now gone and replaced with the marking of his lover. "T-The barcode..."

(Y/n) smiled, knowing the mark would remove his barcode. "Is no longer. The reason you received my mark is because of our bond and because you're Noct's best friend."

Prompto felt tears cascade down his cheek, thankful for the barcode finally being washed from his skin. He pulled (Y/n) into another hug. "Thank you, (Y/n). I love you so much more than you'll ever know."

"I'm glad I was able to erase it. I knew it was causing restless nights and horrendous nightmares. Now, you have no connections to Niflheim at all."

The others smiled at the sight, watching as Prompto swayed (Y/n) gently back and forth. Noctis crosses his arms with a hint of jealousy in his eyes. "Yep, I'm jealous now."

"Why?" Gladio snickered.

"'Cause I don't have anyone to hug."

"You could always hug me or Iggy if you're feelin' so down," the shield scoffs.

"Hell no."

"Then quit complaining. You'll be married soon enough."

"Yeah, yeah. Then I'll get all the hugs I want," Noctis proclaims.

Ignis rolled his eyes slightly. "Whatever His Highness desires."