I did. Very much [ he murmurs into Sylvain's neck. It's easier to admit it like this, tired and cradled, though he feels like it ought to be obvious.

There's a shift, and suddenly there's something soft beneath him. He almost protests being separated from Sylvain, but isn't quite bold enough. And besides, the other is back at his side near immediately, pressing cold water to his mouth.

It helps more than he expects. The beach is hot, and he'd been in the stocks for some time before that intense workout. ]

That's...better. Thank you. [ Less hoarse. ] But why didn't you... [ He doesn't get the rest of the question out, because Olivine has returned, and this, at least, is a loose end he can solve more easily.

Basch turns toward him, opening an arm as if he can summon him down; he doesn't have the energy to do more right now. ]

Olivine. You were incredible. Come lay with us.