[Noctis glances sidelong at Ardyn, and it doesn't take him long to recognize his meaning, and the concern attached. He gives himself a moment to really feel it out, to see if he senses anything off with the added presence. It does feel different, but it had felt a little strange the first time Pyra had ventured here, purely by being what she is- a person, not an object, and thus not someone who ought to belong in a space for memories and energy-converted objects. It'd been a comfort to him then actually. To know his soul recognized her as a person and not a crystal or a manifestation of her magic.

The same applies here, and it feels strange again but offers the same sort of comfort. Ardyn is a person, not a corrupting energy or the scourge made flesh. It's almost as if his soul was here all along, like it belonged here or had been waiting for them. (Which is a bizzare thought, and a fleeting one he doesn't chase. The point is, him coming with them isn't a problem.)]

You're fine, [is at last his answer.] I'm supposed to bring you here eventually anyway, right? If the crystal couldn't handle it, that wouldn't be the original plan. You're not corrupting anything.