Noctis holds his hand in front of him, watching the flecks of energy crackle out of his palm. The purple hue reminding him of you, the source of his power.

There were few mages who could claim to have an elemental spirit bound to them. Most elemental beings lived in seclusion or among their own kind, hidden from mortal eyes and too powerful to be tamed.

Yet, by some miracle, you decided to offer him your power. A spirit of lightning, your energy crackling through the heavens and striking the earth at will. You, who could strike him at any moment and end his life.

He still remembers meeting you, the rain pelting his back, open wounds across his body, as he clung to the cloak he'd been left after an ambush of bandits took every possession he had. A pathetic mage, left with nothing but shame and the desire to slip into the darkness he came from.

The crack of thunder didn't startle him, but the hand on his back did. You came to him.

And for whatever reason, you stuck by his side, now his protector and source of mana.

He clenches his fist, taking a steadying breath. The sun has set over the lake, and he can see you standing at the edge of camp, staring off into the sky.

His eyes lower to the fire as he sighs, releasing the tension in his arm.

As worthless as he believes himself to be, you've put your trust in him. Or perhaps it's just pity. He doesn't care to ask.

"... {{user}}." He calls your name, his voice low. "You can leave for the night, if you want. I've no reason to ask you to stay just to watch me sleep."