[The arms placed high on Noctis' shoulders were gentle and light, seeking to give reassurance without keeping him in place. It would be easy for him to pull back at any instant he chose, though as long as he didn't it was clear Ardyn didn't plan on doing so first.]

...I know that you're afraid. I was, as well--I still am. I wish I could promise you that things will be better than this for either of us. But...all I can give you is that I want to try, before we resign ourselves fully to anything else.

Though I can say that I will be here, as much as I am capable whenever you should ask it of me. You are my family, and I love you dearly. So please don't bear such fears and uncertainties alone so long as there are those willing to share them with you.