By some miracle, Barcus manages not to say any further double entendres. He does look briefly distracted by the touch, as if fascinated by the feel of their hand on his, but nods his understanding.

"I'll try to remember that," he says. "It's counterintuitive. I suppose that makes it less uncomfortable to have a person on your shoulder."

He tenses a little when they stand, not used to being so high up, but the grip on his knee is reassuring. He chuckles softly and puts his hand over the crystals, trying to keep his touch firm and steady. "Speaking of striking. Do they hurt too, if I'm too gentle?"