A deep breath in was released slowly, and the hands that were on the prince's shoulders slid up to cup his cheeks tenderly. The tips of his fingers teased at Regis' scalp just behind his ears, gently, soothingly. "There was so much more at play than I could say, dearest. Just know, our sacrifice was for our children. And for the whole world." Not only their lives, but Noctis' life was a sacrifice both men had been forced to come to terms with long ago, though neither truly every accepted it.

"I have never been disappointed in you," he continued softly, leaning in to rest their foreheads together. "You've shown... will show yourself to be a wise and just king. Fate won't kind to your rule, but you will do everything in your power to keep your people safe and happy."