The part of Ignis' mind that is always multitasking makes a note of that self-deprecating statement. They are going to need to talk about it and the way hearing Gladio being so resigned to death just tears his heart out. Not that he can blame the Shield for the way he was raised--the way they both were really, Ignis just to a lesser degree--but that doesn't mean he is going to let that way of thinking continue. Not when he's found life so much brighter now that he's been able to break himself free of some of the worst parts of their childhood training.

That is a discussion for another day, though, as it and all thoughts of the many things they need to still need to talk about today, fly out of Ignis' mind the moment Gladio yanks him into his arms. A warning to be careful of his wound rises in Ignis' throat, but it never makes it to his mouth. How can he say anything in the face of that relieved sounding sob?

Astrals, is it really even possible for him to heal such a deep pain? One that made Gladio so certain that Ignis would want nothing to do with him once he learned his true feelings? Well, perhaps all his practice trying to do the impossible with Ardyn will benefit he and Gladio in ways he never imagined it could.

A soft, comforting hum slides from his lips as he frees his arms so he can wind both hands into Gladio's hair. Carefully, he starts to rock them, giving the Shield all the time he needs to accept and calm down.