[ that doesn't explain the fact that he's been having really intense sex -- but ignis will set that aside for the moment in lieu of something far more distracting. he knows albert doesn't intend for it, but the question hits hard.

that question and its answer has haunted him ever since he came and gladio, cor, even prompto and aranea had looked at him like... well. like they were expecting him to be the him from their time. he frowns, unable to help the tension in his shoulders and the grim dread that rises to the fore. ]

My brothers-in-arms, and friends -- they are all from farther in the timeline than I am.

[ and something terrible happens to ignis. he closes his eyes briefly, then looks back at him, understanding albert now. he's endured it, the things they tried to hide from him. ] Are you wondering why they're keeping things from you?