"Ah.. it was just an attack, nothing too bad. It was something my swords didn't cut, but Dias saved me so it's all right! Just watch out for a big human-shaped thing with swords for claws!" And to think the older swordsman had blamed himself for Ashton's injury. That was one hundred percent silly, when he'd only saved him! But that was Dias' way, and while he didn't want to change him, keeping him from blaming himself for any injuries that might come to pass on Ashton in his presence was a great idea.

He'd been too reckless to attack the monster that time, but if he hadn't attacked, it would have gone for his friend. He would rather have died. And he very well might have.

Though when Axel replied with what he'd done today, Ashton's eyes widened and he very nearly dropped his fork, fumbling with it instead. What were the chances? "You're kidding! I met a guy just like that, too! He had your same exact voice. Jake, right?" He remembered the guy during lunch. Sad sort of guy, but Ashton was convinced they were going to become friends.