[in turn, Olivine would have trouble explaining it. it has to do with the fact that he'd taken the priest away from all his problems, reminded him that he's still a person with feelings and whose feelings had only grown over time.]

Well, perhaps I'm not so sane, really. [he's not bothered by the idea. sometimes he feels less than sane anyway, a constant ache in the face of everything.] I'm glad you did, in any case.

[oh, but he's worrying now. Olivine feels terrible for causing it, but at least he can explain.]

It's alright. I'll explain in detail when we have time, but essence is, basically, just an energy source. It's what we use for magic here, for example. I do tend to get warmer when I'm sick, but I rarely get sick. I don't overheat much. It does need regulation, but that'll be easier to explain with more time too.

[it's something Basch seems to have, after all, based on their intimacy... his smile widens a little as the man speaks, a little huff of breath against sandy fur.]

I'd still rather you weren't in pain... but I'll happily accept that.