1st of June, M.E. 756

I must be quick about this entry.

We're no longer confined to the chocobo farm. Noct has received the Fulgurian's blessing, though, the battle was hard-fought. I've never myself been afraid of serpents, but after laying my eyes upon the horror of the caves—I get a full shiver if I dwell on it for any length of time.

We weren't even able to rest up. Upon exiting the cave, we received word from Cindy. The Regalia has been located. We've come up with a plan to retrieve her. We're to depart in only a few minutes' time. It will be most perilous. However, if all goes according to my plan, we'll be back in Lestallum by lunch tomorrow. Perhaps I'll take Aleya out for skewers.

I have not been able to reach her by phone alas, and Gladio complains of the same regarding Iris. One would suspect the towers are inoperable. Though, I fear the situation may be far more complicated.

I can only hope I'm incorrect.

3rd of June, M.E. 756

Every time I think the Empire can sink no lower, they dig deeper. They seem keen not only to conquer us, but to shatter us. We live in perpetual fear as to what may occur next. To harm an old man and a child…If the Empire will do such a thing, they would not hesitate to do worse (and they indeed have). Perhaps that was why I was in such a state of anxiety when Iris told me she hadn't seen Aleya since the Empire's arrival. Noct was as alarmed as I and asked Prompto and I to go looking for her. (As if I needed such orders!) We split up along the way, figuring to cover more ground.

After a few hours of searching, I feared the worst.

[FLASHBACK]

Nothing. No one had seen her, or so they claimed. No one had heard of her. It was dark—well into the night by now—and Ignis was beside himself. How far could an injured woman go on her own unless…

He swallowed down a cold fear in his stomach. 'Iggy, I'm sorry. I—I just haven't seen her,' Iris had told him. 'Not since…Not since what happened to Jared.' Ignis pinched the bridge of his nose and squeezed his eyes shut at the words he heard echoing in his ears. He couldn't give in to fear. He couldn't suppose the worst. After all, he truly believed he had lost her once, only to be reunited a few days after. But, should he find General Calico had put a hand on her…

He ground his teeth together. No, she had to be here somewhere. There had been no mention of hostages. But where? If not in the city, perhaps at the local shop?

As he crossed the street, jogging towards the florescent lights of the gas station, the breeze picked up. He stalled, turning on his heel in the middle of the road. He faced the wind and inhaled. There it was—the scent of apple and almond. Encouraged, he rounded the station and squeezed through the fence gate.

There she was. Sitting on an old tall metal pail, overlooking the flicker of Meteor's flame. She was still and quiet. Though he knew she sensed her presence, she didn't acknowledge him.

"Leya!" He exclaimed. "I've been searching everywhere! Have you been here this whole time?"

Nothing. Not a word. Not a flinch, not an acknowledgement. All he could see of her was a tiny sliver of the side of her face. Her hair was down, wafting in the breeze. He could observe the gauze wrapping still around her left shoulder and tied about the opposite side. Something was wrong, he could sense. He took a step closer to her. "Leya…"

"Are the kids okay?" Her voice was a monotone.

Kids? Ah, she must be referring to Talcott and Iris. "A bit shaken up, I'm afraid."

"I see. I should probably go check on them." There was an awkward silence, a long pause. She never moved at all, contrary to the action implied in that last sentence.

He began thinking up the possibilities for her shell-shocked silence, fuming in his mind. What could be the cause of her stoicism? Was she still traumatized? Had the Empire shown up and done further harm to her state of mind? Had Jared been murdered right in front of her?

"I couldn't do anything. I watched it all happen, and I couldn't do anything."

Ah. So that was it. "Hardly anything you could have done."

She shook her head. "You're wrong. When my home fell, I ran. When you were threatened in Insomnia, I fought. I found may way through the Citadel and ran before the rubble falling shook me off my feet. I fought Furia. I can run, I can fight. Why couldn't I take them and run? Why couldn't I…Why could…" Her voice choked down, and she couldn't continue.

His heart ached for her. He instantly dove forward and sat on his haunches in front of her, taking her hands in his. He looked up into her nearly-healed face with tenderness. "Leya. Don't blame yourself."

He expected tears, but none fell. She was in the same state of numb he had last seen her in. She just stared into the distance beyond him. He had seen that expression once before—after her car accident. She was reliving past trauma, incoherent to the present. A fury ran through him. With each passing day, the Empire seemed to tap more deeply into his hate. Not only had they murdered his King, destroyed his home, endangered and hunted Noct, wounded his friends; Now they had insisted upon breaking the woman he loved so dearly. Had he wings, he would have flown to Gralea forthwith and handled the matter in its entirety himself.

He reached out and put a hand to her cheek. The only response he received was a shift of her eyes, finally meeting his own. "I…I couldn't act. I couldn't move. Ignis…why couldn't I move?"

He was at a true loss. He wasn't sure how to answer. "Leya…"

"They've taken everything. My mom, my dad, my brother. They've even taken my courage. I'm no use to anyone, now. Certainly not to you."

"No, never!" He responded, fervently. "What were you expected to do? You've been injured—"

"I couldn't think. I couldn't think about anything. And those poor kids…." With that, she broke down into a short sob. "Maybe that's why everyone's gone. Maybe the gods have decided I should be alone."

Ignis pressed his lips together tightly, another flash of rage in his eyes. "Leya, you are not alone! Am I not here with you?" And in a rare, thoughtless act of spontaneity, Ignis wrapped both arms around her, drawing her into a tight embrace. His heart hammered with the emotions that swirled within him: Despair, desperation, fury, and resolve fueled the arrythmia. She let out a faint cry and jerked her left shoulder away. In alarm, he pulled back, aware his actions had hurt the wound on her shoulder. Still, he couldn't let her go entirely. He kept one hand on her right elbow, drawing her towards him a bit. "I'll never allow any further harm to come to you. You have my word."

"You can't stop the Empire."

"We can. We have, and we will. Those who've cast such pain upon us will pay a dire price, I assure you."

She forced a broken and sympathetic smile. "I know; I've got no right to complain. You all have lost so much more than I have."

"I wouldn't say that..."

"I can't be like this." Her smile turned fragile, heartbreakingly broken. "I've got no right to feel sorry for myself. And I shouldn't stall when people need me. You don't stall, do you? You keep going. If I—I can't keep up…what kind of assistant am I?" Her eyes fell to the hands in her lap.

He stared at her for a while. He could scarcely believe or bear her train of thought. Despite the loss of her homeland and her parents, despite the ire of the Lucian court, she had at times been down, but never had given in to such despair. She needed assurance and understanding, protection, now more than ever.

He hadn't planned on it, and it wasn't proper timing, but he simply could not contain himself any longer. The words were there, on the curl of his tongue, threatening to burst forth without the will to prevent them. "You're my assistant, Aleya. You're the only one I've ever had, and the only one I've wanted. The only one I'll ever want." Ignis wished desperately she could contrive what he meant—to switch the words assistant with 'woman'. Though he had worked up significant courage, he couldn't quite work up that much. Not yet. He was no Gladiolus Amicitia.

She looked down at her hands. "You don't have to be here, Ignis. You have work to do. You have to look after Noct."

"Noct is safe, for the moment." He let her arm go and took her hand, still between her knees. He vaguely marveled in passing how his one hand could consume her tiny fingers. "At the moment, I'm more concerned about you." He didn't need to square his shoulders, or swallow, or take a deep breath. He felt he was bold enough to shout his intentions from Cape Caem's lighthouse. He was caught up in the moment. He had to tell her right now; At this very moment, like he should have done a thousand times before.

She met his eyes with a considering expression—a slightly bewildered curiosity, almost as if he had asked her a difficult question. And then her lips parted slightly, and her eyebrows relaxed, her eyes going slightly wider. There it was—she had found her revelation. He leaned closer, willing her to read the thoughts and intentions in his eyes. He was sure she understood. But, alas:

"I don't mean to trouble you."

Oh, the frustration! He fell back slightly, aghast. Did she truly not understand? He wasn't stating she was keeping him from pressing business. Couldn't she tell he was expressing his concern for her? For someone so sharp-witted, she truly had no common-sense regarding intimacy. A brief thought crossed his mind to attempt the subject later, but he quickly rallied back. There would be no more procrastination. "No, Leya," he replied, his voice barely above a whisper. "You are no trouble. To the contrary, I want to help bear yours."

"Whatever for?" She replied with a sad sigh. "Don't you have enough of your own?"

The time had to be now, and it had to be definitive. He was no good at this sort of thing, he knew. However, he had to take a risk. He had to keep his nerve. She was far too important to save for a more convenient date in his planner. He leaned forward quickly, brushing his lips to her right cheek, softly. He lingered a bit, and she went stiff and still, as if in disbelief.

She pulled away a bit, staring at him in shock. "Igs, what-?" She pressed fingers to the side of her face, covering where his lips had fallen.

He found himself watching her mouth. He couldn't tear his eyes away. "Leya. I—I thought I had lost you. Truly, I did. I thought I lost you, m'girl." His eyes lifted to hers. "Having you back is no burden. Indeed, I feel as if the entirety of the world has been lifted from me. It was so unbearably difficult without you."

And he had her in his arms again. They stayed that way for quite some time. It was pleasant warmth; A secure comfort he had never felt before. Indeed, nothing had ever felt so new, and yet so very natural.

He supposed he should have been content with that alone. He supposed he should have been perfectly happy that they were embracing as long-time lovers would, content and calm. But it wasn't enough, he thought to himself, not nearly enough. For if this was all he did, she would assume him a friend, perhaps a confidant. Ignis didn't want to be just her confidant.

He had no idea what he was doing, but it didn't matter. He moved away slightly. She apparently thought the moment was over, and went to remove herself from his embrace, but he kept his grip on her. She paused when she met the resistance of his arm, and looked up at him questioningly. His eyes again fell to her mouth, and he moved towards her slightly, signaling his intention.

He felt her draw a sharp breath. But she didn't move away. Instead, she froze, and took short rapid breaths as he moved in closer, and closer. Her eyes fluttered shut.

It wasn't to be. Suddenly, there was a loud crash of metal directly beside them. Startled, Aleya jumped away, and slammed her head against the brick wall of the shop as she did so. She let out a yelp.

"Are you hurt?!" Ignis asked in alarm, sliding his fingers over the back of her scalp.

"There you are!" Sang a familiar voice.

Iginis wanted to kill him. He could have gone for one of his daggers that very moment. "Prompto!"

The blonde took in the scene of Ignis kneeling between her knees, caressing her scalp with one hand while the other still lingered around her torso. They were considerably close to one another. "Am—I—kinda interrupting?"

"Yes!" Ignis growled.

"No!" Aleya spoke at the same time.

Prompto glanced back and forth between them. "Noct is looking for you, Allie."

"Okay," she conceded quickly.

"No, wait a moment." Ignis turned to Prompto. "Aleya's processing quite a bit at the moment. Might you inform Noct we'll be along shortly?" He meant it. As badly as he wished he could have salvaged the last few moments of being alone with her, he was more concerned than annoyed.

"No need." Aleya stood, supporting herself on Ignis' shoulder as she did so. "If His Highness wishes to see me, I'm at his disposal."

Ignis tried to prevent her, truly concerned. "There's no rush, Leya…"

She gave him a look that mixed disbelief with solemnity; an expression that spoke of obligation and duty. She was mystified at his behavior, as his priority had always been Noctis. "It's His Highness. If he asks for me, I'll go," she replied.

And just like that, the moment of weakness was gone, replaced with resolve. If she were back to the carefree Aleya, with the bobbing ponytail and the blushing grin on her face, he might have almost felt as gleeful as he had back in Insomnia. Almost. But just as she had implied, he didn't have time to get washed away by emotion. He had a duty to fulfill. At least until it was done, emotion would have to wait.

[Back to Entry]

I'm taking a moment to pin my thoughts on last night's events before leaving for Caem. (I suppose by now, the date has technically shifted to the 4th of June.) I took a walk after everyone was settled down and asleep. I didn't have the luxury of peaceful repose. I had much on my mind. Noct will be depending upon me even more heavily now, as we've made plans to head to Altissia. My familiarity with the western lands is uncomfortably limited, I'm afraid. I had no desire to learn more than necessary about Accordo and Altissia, confining my studies primarily to politics. My mother resides there. I've told no one. I've strayed as far as I could from that subject matter. Now I wholeheartedly wish I had expended myself. Noct needs as much information as he can get. I'd spend the evening studying up if I thought I could even scratch the surface.

I had much to think about regarding Aleya, as well. She and I did not speak about our near-kiss behind the shop. Though, I can't say it's been awkward between us. No, we've been a bit more reserved, but there is a mutual—something…I can't describe it, and I shan't try.

Ah, Aleya! I don't want to leave her here, but when I merely brought up the notion of Caem this evening, she shut me down immediately. She insists she could be better use to me here, as Monica and Iris have already decided to proceed to the lighthouse abode. Here, she insisted, now the biggest city on the map of our continent, she could pick up whispers and rumors and have access to appropriate literature and study materials. Should I require data of some kind, she can easily access it with this city's resources, whereas Caem is considered off the grid and limited. It makes sense.

Still, I'm loath to leave her here. I know she doesn't care for this place at all. She's never been fond of heat. She doesn't like the noise of the power plant or the hiss of steam that startles her as she walks down the street. Not to mention, she has a history of personal trauma in Lestallum, despite her rather short term stay here. I'd like to ensure her safety and peace of mind, especially while I'm away. Once I've left these shores my attention must be wholly on Noctis. I could do my duties with focus and far less concern if I know she's in a safe and comfortable location. I suppose I won't have that luxury.

And there's more. I returned to the Leville in the wee hours this morning, before the sun rose. I thought I was walking in to the usual: Gladio snoring, Prompto babbling in his sleep, Noct dead to the world. Instead, I think I woke him from a nightmare. He woke just as I closed the door behind me, it was only then that it registered on me that he had been thrashing about. Was it this business with the Empire? The continued threat of death and loss? Does he fear for his betrothed? Or were the gods speaking yet again? In any case, the nightmares are becoming more frequent. I'd give nearly anything to gain insight into what he's stewing over.

It's only now that I'm beginning to realize how truly helpless I am. It's maddening.

6th of June, ME 756

[FLASHBACK]—a few days later

"Well, hello there." The voice was clear and melodic, and definitely Aleya's. Ignis turned quickly, nearly dropping the gil purse he was holding.

"Hello, again." He answered. He had seen her at breakfast—in hand-me-down pajamas that were a size too big for her. The clothes she was wearing now certainly weren't. She had donned an off-white knee length dress of some kind. It looked light and airy; Sleeveless and billowy, with a neck that scooped lower than he was used to seeing on her. Her hair caught the light of the sun and radiated a warm glow. He felt his mouth go slightly dry.

"Stocking up?"

He almost forgot to answer her, as he was so taken in by her appearance. He blinked. "A-ah. Yes. Yes, I'm stocking up." He cleared his throat. "Noctis has apparently decided it's great entertainment to sign our quartet up for the more onerous hunts. I thought it best we be prepared."

"Sounds like you." She put a hand on her hip and nodded at him with a smile.

She had done that same gesture a thousand times before. Why did it suddenly seem so different? Had she chosen that dress just to tease him? Was she finally understanding his attraction, and trying to make the most of it? Maybe to make him regret his decision to leave all the more? He was already hesitant to depart for Caem without her. After all, every time he seemed to let her out of his sight, something dreadful seemed to happen to her. His eyes fell to her shoulder, which still had affixed gauze due to the bullet hole in her skin.

Not waiting for a response, Aleya reached past him for the bag of goods he had purchased and rifled through the contents. "No phoenix downs?"

"I'm afraid Noct was fascinated with the wares at the armory yesterday, and our funds have run a bit short. We'll buy more when we can. Possibly after we finish this hunt."

She looked momentarily disturbed. She turned to the shopkeeper and whispered something, leaning over the counter slightly. Ignis looked on, more out of curiosity with the events than with her appearance. After a moment of what seemed like bribery and negotiation, she procured a bottle from the shopkeeper and turned to Ignis. "Keep this on you." She shoved it in his coat pocket as they walked away, a few feet away from the vending window, towards the fountain.

"How did you manage this? Have you money?"

"I bargained."

He gave her a dubious glance. "Bargained? What, pray tell, was the deal?"

"A date," she replied, without a moment's hesitation.

"A—a what?" Ignis blinked at her, unsure he had heard correctly. He looked past her, towards the lanky shopkeeper who grinned at her cheekily. "A date? Are you mad?!"

She shrugged. "It's not a big deal. Don't get your tie in a twist."

He was beside himself. What was with this sudden attitude? She didn't seem to care one whit that she had paid for this item by selling herself! He wouldn't allow it! "I think not!" He argued, and aggressively shoved his hand in his pocket to remove the offensive healing flask as he began to walk towards the vendor's counter.

"Wait! Where are you going?" She stepped in front of him, holding him back by putting her palms into his chest, just below the shoulders.

"I won't allow you to date that man!"

She giggled as she held him back. "Igs, calm down!"

"How can you possibly ask me to remain calm?" He demanded.

"Because I'm kidding!" She broke into a hearty laugh. She dropped her hands away as he halted mid-step. "Sheesh, Igs, you really are gullible, aren't you?"

He suddenly felt as if he were in a very foul mood. "I'm hardly gullible!" He snapped at her. "You're unusually…" He trailed off. He couldn't seem to find the right word. Why was he suddenly not able to grasp one word out of his expansive vocabulary?

"Okay, okay. Sorry about that. I was just messing with you." She pulled at the lapel of his jacket staunchly and then began dusting at his sleeve. He always wondered why she had the habit of doing such a thing. He had always paid immaculate attention to his appearance as an official representative of His Highness, after all. He didn't really need her to look after him in such a way. Though, he didn't particularly mind, either. If he was honest, he actually enjoyed her attention. She continued speaking as she swept at the imaginary lint on his arm. "I just offered to work it off. A few tasks for him; Whatever he needs."

"How could you do that? You have no idea what he'll ask of you. He could try to take advantage of…"

He halted as her eyes snapped up to him in irritation.

"Ignis Stupeo Scientia, you know better. I'm a smart girl. I wouldn't let that happen."

"Hardly. Trouble follows you like a shadow."

She stopped dusting and straightening all at once. She went still, and her face clouded over. "I…you're right. I know I cause you trouble."

Curse his lack of foresight! That was hardly what he meant! He realized immediately he might have hurt her feelings, and she was already so vulnerable after all that had happened to her in recent weeks. "Leya, I'm….My apologies. That's not what I intended to say at all."

She meandered off towards the fountain, and he followed her along. "But it's true. Look at what happened a few evenings ago. Your duty is to Noct, and you had to go looking for me. I kept you out, burdening you with all my nonsense." She rolled her eyes in a self-reproaching fashion. Then she began to wring her knuckles, a habit she had whenever she was nervous. "And everything else you did…Well, I know you were just trying to make me feel better. You didn't have to do that." She looked over her shoulder to meet his eyes only for a fraction of a second. That look spoke of regret and sympathy. She regretted being a burden, and felt sympathy for him having to endure it.

What was she referencing? Searching for her for hours? Taking her out for coffee the next morning? Breakfast? Sitting on the bench for an hour afterwards until Noct was bothered to roll out of bed? Allowing her to lean on his shoulder? Or was it perhaps—he watched the hint of pink crawl across her face-the evening itself? The kiss? As he thought about it, he felt equally embarrassed. It was the poorest timing anyone could have thought of. He was sure it was awkward and perhaps even startling. Looking back, he was positive he had momentarily lost his mind.

He stood in a bumbling manner, holding the bag of items, staring at the splashing water next to them. He wasn't sure how to reply. Perhaps he should have indeed devoted more time to watching television instead of poring over science and literature. He might have had an inkling of what to do in a relationship if he had.

"Anyway." Her voice pierced the silence. "You don't have to worry about me anymore. You can focus on Noct. I'll be right here. I'll do some research and coordinate with what's left of the Crownsguard. So, if you need intel, or a supply delivery, or—" Her eyes met his again and immediately dropped. "—Anything at all, you know how to reach me. Otherwise, I'll be out of your hair. You'll never even have to lay eyes on me again, if you don't want to."

Those last two sentences mystified him at first, but then he grew upset. Did she truly think he regarded her as some sort of weight he was ready to rid himself of? How could he have been so misunderstood?! He would have thought his actions that evening spoke his intentions clearly. He felt a rising panic as she turned to leave, and grabbed her arm at the elbow. "Wait!"

She let out a slight yelp, and he realized he had grabbed her wounded side. He dropped his hand immediately and rounded to face her. "Did I hurt you?" He asked, his face all concern.

"No," she lied, rubbing her shoulder gently.

He sighed. "My apologies. It's just that…" He paused. She looked up at him expectantly, with that hint of curiosity that he always loved. "Noct will always come first, it's true. He must. It's also true that the weight of my concern will always tilt towards him. He is, after all, not only my King, not only my family, but our future."

"I know that," she answered with slight offense, as if he were trying to lecture her.

"But Leya…" He spoke gently, and turned her to face him, this time by turning her round by her good arm. "I also care for you. When I thought you died, I…" No, no. He couldn't tell her such things, not yet. He couldn't rush head long into that. "What I mean is that I don't mind looking after you as well. You are an integral part of my life. I care for you differently than Noctis, of course. But…" He paused again. When did he ever before lose his ability to speak? He sounded utterly incoherent! Perhaps she was an antagonist to his ability to think. "Everything I've done for you, I've done so because I want to."

She stared up at him, searching his eyes for clues. As he seemed to be speaking in riddles, he certainly didn't blame her. While he prided himself on intellect, he could at times be witless. "Do you really mean that?" She asked, her voice very quiet.

"Of course!" He firmly replied. Her eyes had the ability to transfix him, to root his feet to the soil on which they rested. He couldn't look away from her. "I'm quite happy to be the one you depend on."

A soft smile touched her face, and her eyes began to sparkle. He felt his heart hammer in his chest.

To his surprise, she moved in closely to him; So closely that his head swam and his thudding heart began to ache. His eyes fell to her mouth again, wondering how they might feel when she finally landed them against his. But she didn't fulfill his expectations. She reached up and plucked the glasses off of his face. "How can you see out of these, silly? They're all smudged up."

He swallowed hard. "Are they?" No, he was sure they weren't. Those, too, he kept in immaculate condition. If they had a smudge, he would have noticed.

She fingered the fabric of her skirt for a moment and then cleaned his lenses. While she was occupied, he took a few calming breaths. "Here." She handed them back to him. "Much better."

Her hand seemed to linger as she handed the glasses over. He got a bit heady, and nervousness crawled across his body as they again made eye contact. She seemed to be studying him intently. He froze, hand still extended. "Something wrong?"

"I was just thinking about how pretty your eyes are."

Blaringly direct of her, and not something she would normally say, no matter how honest and forthright she was. Aleya had always been prudent. She had called him handsome before, but he had always taken it as an off-handed compliment when he had dressed for an official occasion or some such. Now, her boldness startled him.

"So you had better take good care of them," She continued. "No more injuries to the face, do you understand?"

He frowned slightly. The last significant injury to his face he could recall was in the training room, several years before. He could remember her concern for his eyes during that incident. "That happened only once, and it was a long time ago."

"Still. You better be careful. Take care of them, do you hear me?"

Flustered, he began to put the glasses back on his face.

"And Iggy….good luck."

While his fingers still hovered over his temples, while he was still positioning the frames over his nose, she stood on tiptoe and leaned forward. It was quick, but her lips softly brushed his cheek. His reflexes had always been impossibly swift, and he was so surprised, he turned slightly. Her lips made contact at the corner of his slightly parted mouth. He stood, stunned, as she pulled away sharply, covering the lower half of her face with her hands. Her eyes went wide.

"Ignis! I'm…I'm so sorry! It was—I was supposed to…. I didn't think you'd-!" She crossed her arms and backed away. "It was for good luck….on-on the cheek. I'm so sorry!"

He simply stared at her, mouth still partially agape. He wasn't sure of what to say; It had caught him by surprise. Again, he never expected something like this from her. It might have been a simple 'good luck' as she said, but she never would have been so bold to have done something like that before. She had always—simply always—kept a respectable distance from him. Then again, perhaps it was a taste of his own medicine, after he had made advances a few evenings back.

It wasn't just her behavior that struck him, though. He wasn't sure what to do. Was he supposed to reassure her? Pretend it didn't happen? Wave it off nonchalantly with a chuckle and a 'these things happen'? Or—he was fighting the temptation—go in for one of his own, using this as an opportunity to finally confess this roiled emotion within him? As he was working up a course of action and determining trajectory of the decisions and possibilities, he heard Noctis' voice: "Ignis! We're going!"

He turned, startled, to see Noct waving as he walked by from the hotel and into the alleyway. Goodness, how much had he seen? At least Gladio and Prompto were nowhere in sight. "On my way!" He called.

"Really, Igs. I'm so sorry. I really didn't mean to…." She looked positively mortified. Her face was crimson, and her eyes looked as if tears were beginning to well up in them from sheer embarrassment.

So, it was true. Just a pleasant accident, and nothing more. What a disappointment. He tried to shrug it off. After all, had the same thing happened to him, he would be the same, despite his feelings for her. Besides, she seemed to need a bit of assurance. "Think nothing of it," He replied, adding as much cheer as possible to his voice. "As far as accidents go, it was one of the better ones." He immediately felt like wincing at that statement. He wished he could kick himself. 'One of the better ones'? Not exactly poetry.

"Really, Ignis, I didn't mean to scare you like that. I really…"

"Aleya."

She was afraid to look at him. "Yes?"

"Come here."

She gave him a questioning glance, darting her eyes away shyly again. She did what she was told, however. She timidly crept towards him.

He put a hand on her good shoulder. "Don't set your heart on it. An eye for an eye, yes?"

That caught her attention. She knew what he meant immediately. He had startled her with a kiss on the cheek, and she had done the same. It was enough to clear the air a bit. "Okay."

"And do take care of yourself. I'll fret over you while I'm away."

"You will?" She seemed genuinely surprised.

"Of course." Almost as if he had a habit of doing so, he pinched back a stray strand of her hair. "You've lost your brother. I worry you'll do something reckless."

She rolled her eyes. "You're traveling with Noctis. You're the one who will end up doing something reckless."

He smiled at her. "Indeed."

Prompto's voice now, though distant and in the general direction of the gas station. "Come on, Igster! We've got the motor running!"

She smiled. "So I suppose we should just promise each other that we'll be careful."

"Very well." He took her in: The foreigner who had defeated the odds and somehow infiltrated both the Citadel and his heart. He was amazed at her brilliance and tenacity. She had indeed changed him into a different person. He respected who she was: The only woman in the world who could lecture him, delight him, and create fear at the same time. While his desire for her had taken a while to grow, his respect for her had been quite powerful from the very beginning. If he hadn't respected her, he knew he would have never grown to love her. And he did love her; So very deeply! It was beginning to become a burden to hold it down, to keep it locked away in the secret recesses of his soul. What else could he do? Now, with so much at stake and so much to lose, he could hardly give her a confession. All he had time for now was this. "We'll take care of each other. Is that acceptable?"

She gave him a genuinely warm smile and moved in for a hug, wrapping her arms around his waist tightly.

A bit of a fleeting panic passed through him; A memory of the last time he struck out with Noctis, after saying goodbye, feeling he had left her in safety. Surely even his fate would not be so cruel to try the same disaster twice!

She smiled. "Soft touch. You were always a gentleman, Igs."

"But of course."

She patted his back. "I suppose we've been that way from the start, haven't we? We partnered up and looked out for each other."

"Right. So there's no need to end said partnership now." He forced trepidation out and focused on enjoying the embrace. "When I return, I expect to find you in one piece and in excellent health, understood?"

"Of course." She stepped away. "If you take care of yourself, too. Don't let the others eat all the food. Don't stay up late cleaning up after Noctis. Make him pull his weight. You baby him too much."

He grinned. "My duty, as per His Majesty." He nodded at her. "I believe we've reached an agreement, then."

There was a sound of an automobile horn, unquestionably the Regalia's. She nodded that direction. "You better go, before they send the Marshal after you."

He left lingering eyes on her mouth again, debating whether he should just catch her up, kiss her passionately, and be done with it. He caught her hand briefly. "I'll be back."

"You'd better." She gave him a shove in the general direction of the alleyway.

It was difficult, but he somehow walked away from her. He managed to go through the motions of putting the item sack in the trunk, stepping into the car, fastening his safety belt, checking his mirrors, putting the car in gear, and shifting to the appropriate pedal. He rolled past the gas pump and set his blinker to pull onto the highway. As he looked up, though, he saw Aleya standing across the street. She pointed at him, then to her eyes, before giving him a thumbs up and a small wave. She seemed to be glowing. Something had changed between them….something very important, and something that felt wonderfully good. He knew, beyond all doubt or expectation, that he was looking across the street to his future wife. There was Mrs. Scientia.

He smiled and raised the fingers of his right hand on the steering wheel to acknowledge her before turning left onto the highway. He could hear her words in his mind. 'I was thinking about how pretty your eyes are…take care of them'. Well, if that's what the missus desired, that's what she would get.

"What was that all about?" Prompto asked, suspiciously.

Ignis smiled. "Nothing warranting your attention."

[Back to Entry]

We made a stop-over in Old Lestallum, and I'm sure the Empire wishes we hadn't. Only yesterday I was fretting over my inadequacies as a warrior. I felt out of my depth to take on an entire Empire. And yet, under Noctis' orders, I was able to successfully devise a plan to take down an Imperial fortress. Only 4 young men against the Empire? It doesn't seem far-fetched now. Noct leads us to places we fear to tread, and yet we always manage to succeed. It's obvious he is quickly growing into a man that does not need my coddling and protection. For every day—every hour—that passes, he appears more and more a King.

I wish Aleya would have come along. My heart already longs for her. But, I understand her reasons for staying. She's convinced she'll be of the most use in Lestallum. Ever the assistant, she's eager to gather information and coordinate resources. She also desires to help the refugees settle in, aiding the governing body of Lestallum with the relocation effort. Besides, I suppose we'll have to part, eventually. I wouldn't very well like to drag her along with me to Gralea.

Something occurred to me tonight, and I called to warn her not to work at the power plant. It's dangerous, and the work is difficult. Besides, I've seen how the males of that city flock about the gates when the work shifts end. No, I flatly insisted she not work there. She was confused as to why I would call her for such a thing, I'm almost certain. Nevertheless, she assured me she wouldn't…just before the line disconnected. I couldn't get it back again.

I suppose that's that. Onward we go towards Caem.

7th of June, ME 756

I didn't think I'd have time to enter anything into my journal this evening. We stopped over at Malmalam, where we encountered another royal tomb. Gladio feared for his sister's safety, especially when we hade to face down a Bandersnatch. However, Iris did remarkably well for herself. I suppose she's an Amicitia, after all. It did exhaust her, though. She fell asleep fairly quickly after dinner.

I've tried to sleep, but I can't. It's pointless. My mind always trails to the inevitable—Leya. I wonder how she's faring in Lestallum, and if she's looking after herself.

I suppose it's worth recording that I nearly murdered at least one of my companions today. I'd be lying if I said it was entirely by accident. After all, the thought did cross my mind. Fortunately, I'm not a man prone to premeditated violence. If Prompto would merely learn a bit of self-discipline in regards to his speech, perhaps it wouldn't have happened. But, no. He inquired of Leya. He asked Gladio, out of the blue beyond, if he was dating her. His answer? Plain as day, "I wish." Had I not been driving, I would have called him out for it.

It got worse from there. Prompto asked me, of all people, rather frustrating questions: Does she have a boyfriend? Does she like younger men? Does she prefer blondes? Does she like short men? I knew where it was all going, of course, and I tried to ignore him, gripping the steering wheel as if I could break it in half with my bare hands. Noct tried to intervene, to steer the conversation away from such dangerous territory. However, Prompto can be rather single-minded. When he mentioned she would most likely prefer a shorter man, as the height difference matters in more-let's say 'intimate' times, I nearly lost my mind. I hit the brakes so hard I nearly propelled the four of them to the front bumper. I shoved him. I can't remember, I think I might have shoved his forehead. I launched into quite a lecture about respecting women, and Leya in particular. No one had any choice but to listen to me rant and rave until I was spent.

Noct was acutely uncomfortable. Gladio appeared amused. I was well aware of the fool I was making of myself, but I couldn't constrain my temper. What kind of man would I be if I let something so blatantly offensive pass? Of all people, I should be the foremost to defend her honor. I pulled none of my punches. I remember dragging Miss Aurum into the conversation. I mentioned her décor—or lack thereof—and how her grandfather needed to dress her properly. Prompto was put out, but he couldn't get in a word. I emphasized Leya never invited such ogling by her dress and manner, and should be granted proper respect. (Mind you, I have nothing against Miss Aurum. I simply was making a point.)

By the time we reached Malmalam and parked, even Iris looked exhausted at my prattling on. Still, I rounded the car and gave him a proper threat. I told him if he should even speak one more syllable of disrespect, my dagger's next target would be his spleen.

Prompto thought I was joking. I wasn't.

He asked for Noct's assistance, to which Noct declined. He knows full well when I've reached my limit. I assume the subject was thin ice he did not wish to tread upon.

I admit to myself now my response was a bit extreme. There's the possibility that fatigue has finally taken its toll. It's been an exhausting and irritating day. I'm glad to be done with it.

8th of June, ME 756

Iris requested another camping expedition. I don't see the point in wasting time. We're so near our destination; an additional delay is simply procrastination. The sooner we arrive in Altissia, the sooner we can settle things with the Empire, and the sooner we can return.

I'm still avoiding speaking to Prompto. I just can't bring myself to do it. No man should be forced to be pleasant after such an ordeal. I had to feed him with the others, but I'm surprised I didn't shatter the plate with the force I exerted placing it upon the table.

Enough of that.

I wonder how long it will take to accomplish our goals. I can't imagine taking Gralea head-on. It will call for careful planning, covert operations, and a large number of allies. I can imagine it would take years.

Years overseas? Even days have been agony.

9th of June, ME 756

Salty sea breeze. It's the one thing I suppose I'll always remember about Caem. It permeates the air, even indoors. The roar of the ocean tides against the cliffsides soothes a stormy soul. One would think I should be able to sleep. But, I again found myself lying awake.

Firstly, there is this problem of the mythril. We're to set off in the morning to find it. I imagine it will be no easy feat, as the destination is quite ancient and is barricaded by an Imperial checkpoint. We best all be at the top of our game. We may run into Izunia again—I'm loath to have any further dealings with that man. I don't trust him a whit. Something is enormously suspicious of his character—even beyond the fact that he harkens to Emperor Aldercapt. He reeks of danger. However, the man is keen to a fault. It's as if I'm playing chess blindly. I can't even see my opponent, much less navigate a victory. I'll make sure that we proceed with the utmost of caution.

Beyond the matter of politics and warfare, there are other matters. As I sit on the steps outside, salty breeze misting my skin and blowing through my hair, I think ever of Aleya. She would have loved to see this place. She was born and raised in Galahd, after all. She misses the ocean; She must. I know she is probably not comfortable in Lestallum. She has no one there.

She stayed for me, and for Noct. That's the type of person she is. She strives for purpose, for belonging. Her happiness revolves around being useful. I think now of the many all-night projects, study campaigns, rumors, and training. It's not that she enjoys difficulty. She simply will endure it if it aids Noct. If it aids me.

If I am Noct's right hand, she is mine. I could not have succeeded these last few years without her. I can't imagine what a future without her would be like, but it would be most like the same black void I experienced when I believed her to be dead—something I wish to never experience again. It was as if I could only muddle through my paces; Fumbling in the dark. Without her, it's truly as if I've lost my right hand, and my only light. It would be akin to being blind.

Oh, I would keep living, of course. There's the matter of Noct, and the Empire, and the rebuilding of Lucis. Noct would need me to go on, and I live as much for Noct as I do for myself, if not more so.

I've made up my mind to purchase something meaningful for her in Altissia, regardless. The very moment I see her again, I will tell her my intentions. I feel—I must believe—she will accept me. Perhaps after Noct's ascension, we could even in the future be married in that fair city? Though it seems a lifetime away, the goal is plainly in sight.

Yet, I can't shake this nagging sensation of leaving her behind yet again as we plot off for Altissia. Last time I did so, she was declared dead.

I must focus. For now, it's best to concentrate on the imminent rather than the beyond. One step at a time.

Onward.

11th of June, ME 756

We've finally made it back to Caem. It's been a harrowing few days. What started out as a simple errand to locate mythril turned into an all-night expedition into an ancient castle, riddled with fiends. Once we finally though we were in the clear we had to slay a beast of legend—Quetzalcoatl. I would say it's mere coincidence, but seeing as how the Imperial Chancellor again reared his head into our business, I'm dubious to believe he knew nothing of the danger. After all, he did loan us the assistance of Aranea Highwind.

We've met with Aranea before. As I recall, she fought with us at Fort Vaullerey. She's a bit of an enigma. She acts more as a mercenary than a loyalist. From what I can tell, she has no true allegiance to the Empire—at least no longer. Beyond what they pay her, I doubt she sees any true value in them. She is the essence of a formidable warrior. Were we friends instead of foe, I would relish the idea of training with her. She knows her way with a weapon, for certain.

We'll be on our way to Altissia in short order.

Cruelly, we had to make a stop at Lestallum due to some problem with the plant, and I had no time to see Leya. I'm not even positive she knew we were there. Of all times that His Highness decides upon expediency, it had to be this day. While I know he's eager to reach Lady Lunafreya, could he not have spared even a half hour? It's not as if he doesn't know what's transpiring between she and I. He is the only one who does; Though, I think Gladio suspects. Prompto is easily distracted, so I doubt he's pieced the events together, yet.

I'm beginning to understand why Noct keeps Umbra busy transporting the notebook.

At least one of us will be happy in Altissia.

13th of June, ME 756

I've been distracted.

It hasn't interfered with my duties to His Highness, of course. But, I have indeed been distracted. I've told myself at least a dozen times today to stay focused. It's not like me to have my mind wander. For one thing, this city is where my fair mother absconded, and I kept finding my brain gnawing over what would happen should I run into her. I've had that feeling often when I was younger. Through my service in Lucis, I eventually nearly forgot all about her. I know she's in this city, though, and I have no idea what my course of action would be should I see her. It becomes exceedingly clear I may chance upon her, as her dear mother is now Madame First Secretary.

Also, I think ever of Aleya. From the time she was very young, she and her father had their sights on her coming here. And though she says she found contentment in serving Lucian Royalty, I suspect she found merely a purpose. Her happiness is undoubtedly tied up with purpose. Though, I think she's always had her heart set on becoming a citizen of this city. So every sight I've seen today: every waterway, building, statue, painting, vendor, wishing bird…alas, I could almost see her standing next to me, taking it all in. It was a bit of a melancholy experience.

We passed the Altissian Academy of Art and Science on our way to espy Lady Lunafreya's dress. That was particularly difficult. She would have taken the place by storm, I'm certain of it.

And then, to top of the day, there was the dress. I think I said something while gazing at it; I'm not sure what it was. Was it wrong to think of Leya in that moment? Perhaps it was selfish, childish. It was to belong to Noct's bride; A bride which he was denied, in all of Niflheim's violence. We'll be lucky to escape this place fully intact, and that goes for her ladyship as well. I imagine Noct felt rather wistful as he stared at the commissioned garment. Still...I could almost feel Aleya's hand in mine; Could almost see her soft smile as she gazed at the dress in the window, as if she would purchase one of her own.

Nonsense. Utter nonsense. I've lost all cognition. This is why I've avoided relationships. I can't afford to be blinded by a passing daydream, not when the stakes are so high.

Still, if all goes well, I'll one day make her mine. Goals and hopes give men power that the mental and physical body does not naturally possess. Just as I plan and hope for Noct to ascend the throne, I plan and hope for Aleya and I to serve him side-by-side, always.

By pure happenstance, we afterward passed by a vendor selling jewelry afterwards. My eye fell upon a ring of pure stone, so pale a blue/green that it was nearly white. It gave me pause. The vendor stated it was Altissian jadeite, nearly indestructible. There were properties in the stone that catch and amplify even the slightest light. There was no hesitation. I found the souvenir I had planned to give her. Could there be anything more perfect? A gem plucked from the sea that radiates light?

I suppose distractions don't always hurt. Whilst writing, I've forgotten entirely about my mother.

14th of June, ME 756

We've finally finished taking in the sights of the city and dispatching the dark creatures that haunt it. There's no better timing, as Noct was growing restless regarding Her Ladyship.

She is indeed in Altissia. The time for her planned speech is tomorrow. Secretary Claustra had reassured Noctis of her safety—provided we play our part. Lunafreya will assure us the Hydraean's blessing; I'm certain that blessing will not come easily for any of us. The Empire will find it's opportunity to be involved, no doubt. I'm told Ravus Nox Fleuret is in Altissia as well. As I write this very moment, he's undoubtedly laying plans to prevent Noct from receiving the gift of the Water Goddess. What of his sister, I wonder? Would he be willing to go through her, as well?

Gladio, Prompto, and I have the assignment to evacuate the civilians from harm's way, while Noctis secures the blessing. I spoke against it, once alone. I asked Noct to call in the Marshal, or Monica, or any of the Kingsglaive that still remain loyal to the Crown, so that I might accompany him to the altar. He has refused; We're short on time.

I don't like him going alone. If I could find any way around it, I would. I feel as if I am abandoning my brother; Neglecting the safety of my King.

Speaking of the King, I hear Noct stirring about. He probably can't sleep, either. Best I tend to him, and try to allay his concerns.