Truthfully, Ace could never bring himself to respond negatively to the bird's pleas, either, not seeing much point in being harsh to the animal just for the sake of setting an example. "... I don't think he's necessarily pretending." The corners of his mouth curled into a soft smile. "There just always has to be an odd one among the pack, and this one happens to be a hungry beast."

However, her point remained. They were such wonderful creatures, and Ace was more than glad to see the girl's blooming enthusiasm.

"Oh—" watchful of her every step, the cadet couldn't have reacted any differently as his hand wandered to cradle hers reassuringly. "... Tear, were you hurt?"

She could hope all she wanted, but there he was, leaning in closer to inspect just how serious the damage was, gaze flickering to the little culprit in her hands.

"I wouldn't mind." The response presented itself so clearly in his mind, it slipped through his lips before he considered how unreasonably it sounded.

"Um," he exhaled, "I mean, I wouldn't mind helping you out until you feel more comfortable about handling this... situation."