[ Missing his home and his friends was one thing, but for a brief time he had forgotten just how close he became with the new people he met while in this place. It was easy to lose those bonds in his confusion, so he was glad to hear that they still held strong even in his absence.
Ashton was touched. Really and truly, that was unexpected. He smiled, feeling more at ease with that small revelation. ] Mm, I see. I'll have to thank her.
[ And then, he stepped closer yet. ] But first, I need to thank you, Diva. Without you, I'd-- [ The hand at his side came up and clenched above his heart. Without her, he would be dead. Without her, he was... nothing. Life would not exist for him; even if it did, it would have no meaning. ]