“I am perfectly fine--” He muttered, holding his head as he shifted to his feet. He was still getting his bearings. This place was terribly unfamiliar-- and rather ravaged. It appeared as if an intense battle had taken place. He noticed he had injuries-- mostly superficial. The cut on his right leg was the most distracting-- it practically burned in intensity.
Running a hand through his hair, he mulled over the other injuries he had-- all superficial. They’d heal in time.
Now he had to address the stranger before him-- one who had crept out of the shadows like a wraith. There was something fleetingly familiar about him, but nothing Ignis could immediately place. “Perhaps I may require assistance-- I’m--”
His words were cut off by the stark realization that he had no idea who he was. No name. He tried to recall his parents, friends, even foes-- but nothing came to mind. A ring gleamed on the ground nearby, drawing his attention. Walking over to it he picked it up. Something about it sent a spark of regret coursing through him.
The object was placed in his pocket, attention turning back to the stranger.
“I’m afraid you have me at a disadvantage-- I cannot seem to recall who I am, let alone what I’m doing here.
The way the Chancellor’s lips curled back into a smile indicated he was already holding onto this power dynamic. He practically seemed to slide around the advisor, as though he almost hovered across the ground. Every inch of him seemed slick and oozing, and, oh, he was quite enjoying it. Especially when something seemed so carefully calibrated to fall discreetly into his hands.
He stopped in front of Ignis, a hand rested against his chest as he bowed effortlessly at the waist, some measure of concern evident on his features.
“No recollection? Now, that is disheartening to hear.”
Ardyn’s voice trailed off for a second as his eyes narrowed towards Ignis. He did not know who he was? Who he served? Seemed that Ring might have given Ardyn an advantage the gods had not accounted for. Oh, that was truly delicious, wasn’t it?
His hands spread wide in a friendlier appearance, the smile on his face switching to one of an old friend. Ardyn’s tone took on one of concern as he reached forward to lightly touch Ignis’ shoulder.
“How can you not recognize your oldest friend, Ignis? Do you not know who I am?”