Axel nodded at Aerith's reassurance and gave her a smile. If things went bad, he'd have no problem calling for a retreat. Saix would be less likely to flee from a fight, but Axel had no issue with running away and living to fight another day. He didn't care if he had to drag Saix with him to do it.

"Stay out of the line of fire and we'll keep you safe," he said quietly. "Got it memorised?"