"Yes..." He nuzzles into his friend's shoulder as he draws a shuddering breath. "I do worry that I will interpret it as a bad jest, but you are nothing if not persistent. I have faith in you, 'Daeus."

It's nice being held like this. Having shed many tears already, these fresh ones now soon cease. Unlike before, he has the assurance of someone who will stand by him and draw him back should he stray too far. It will be fine. They will be fine.

"...Thank you," he murmurs. "I-- I promise to live. At least until we can return home. I won't throw my life away needlessly."