[Perhaps it's Ignis' close relationship with Noctis that means that can be used as his excuse so readily. He's aware it's only slightly true. And of course, he's much more direct about things. Maybe it's the fact he wasn't as close to the prince? Close enough to get knifed in the face on his behalf, sure. But even that wasn't as close as Ignis was to him.

But whatever. Even if an excuse is needed, it's fine. Because it's Ignis, it's fine.]

Something hot. [For his benefit, of course. But If asked, he'd probably quip it would be to make her forget all about Noct.]

Yeah, she's strong. She told me she didn't deck that brat herself because she figured it'd bring shame on the lot of us.

[He follows Ignis, stopping too.]

Yeah. But, if it's anything else... I won't push you. I might need a smack every now and again, but yeah. You get it.