Gladiolus's origins with Noctis are shown within the frame of a monster encounter that turns into a friendly contest between Noctis and Gladiolus. Initially seeing him as a spoiled, self-centered child, Gladiolus's opinion is changed drastically when Noctis helps keep Gladiolus' sister Iris out of trouble by taking the blame for going outside the Citadel grounds with her. The two formed a close bond, which became a firm friendship by the events of XV.

The origins of Ignis' relationship with Noctis is revealed when the group stays in the town of Lestallum, and Ignis attempts to recreate a favorite dessert of Noctis'. As he begins to feel the effects of maintaining Lucis' magical Wall, Regis entrusts Ignis with caring for Noctis. While initially carefree, Noctis becomes disturbed when he sees how far Regis has declined, and has an argument with Ignis when confronted with his future as king. Eventually facing his position, Noctis and Ignis reconcile.