At first all Ashton does is nod, his eyes go a little glassy at remembering what they'd seen in the waters, but they close their eyes and compose themself before continuing.

"He didn't really tell me, I saw him at the springs and the water showed me. It...it was pretty bad. But I mean...we talked. I'm...I'll be okay. I doubt it'll lessen the blow any when it happens but it's...it's nice to know either way."

Finally looking back at Dorian again they offer him a softer smile that is their usual. Just an upturn of lips, no teeth.

"I get you guys were tryin' t' protect me." That's it, no 'but' or anything. "Thanks."