[ He figured Noct would ask this, and if there positions were reversed, Prompto would absolutely want to know. Still, that makes it no easier to give this answer, because he knows Noctis isn't going to like what he hears. ]

...Three times, now. [ But he's quick to chase these words, before his friend can start feeling too regretful, talking with both hands. ] B-but it's not your fault. There's nothing anyone can do about it. It's just...part of being here.

[ A sucky part of being here, but it is what it is. Eager to clear the air a bit: ]

You've never come out so scraggly-lookin' before, though.