( the first step forward is frightening. frightening in that familiar way that always kicks up within her whenever someone gets a little too close. there aren't many who can tolerate her heat, aren't many that wouldn't find themselves burning from the heat she gives off alone. and fewer still who would actually think to touch her.

karlach takes an initial step back automatically, already moving to put some distance between them. she knows the dangers of her skin, knows just how searingly hot it really is despite appearances. the fire that the engine spits out almost looks fake, like a fun party trick or maybe a fantastical illusion from how thoroughly it covers her body, but it's not.

her touch alone is hot enough to rend flesh from bone.

and darin closes the distance anyway.

forward, forward, forward even as his own skin reddens and sweat starts to cover his face. he fearlessly takes her large hand into his own, clasping his fingers around hers. )

Darin—!

( karlach starts, emotion heavy in her voice. it's almost too heavy for her speak. she makes a choked noise next, followed by a rush of tears. the tears sizzle and burn up instantly, creating a quiet sound. )

You're fucking mad!

( she says next, giving darin's hand a firm shake before letting him go. this place already smells of burning flesh from this foolishness, she couldn't let it get any worse.

despite that, the gesture was important. and it was just as important for her to answer it with respect. a proper handshake for the idiot dumb enough to touch her bare-handed. )

You don't-You don't know how much this means to me.

( karlach isn't even sure she could explain it to him. how could say that she's never going to forget this? how could she say just how valuable this small touch is when she can't normally have it?

what she does know is that everything gets repaid in kind. )

Gods! But we got to get you some ice or a potion or-? Do you have a kit? What's wrong with you?