I don’t know much about your training, or how essence works [ he admits shyly, hands finished with their task but just enjoying stroking the other’s warm skin. [ ] But I’d like to learn. And if you’d rather lie down next time, or something else entirely, just tell me.

[ then he flushes, feeling called out, but nods, easing his posture and letting his tail settle into the water. It’s not unpleasant, it just makes him self-conscious. But olivine’s hands are still on his own torso, wrapped in his fur like it’s normal, and it’s the least miserable he’s ever felt about the curse. Even if he still hopes the next time they do this he will be human. ]