We really were . . . He's brave, really considerate, and looked a lot like me, just older? Did I mention he was a strategist? He was even allowed to advise our captain and— he always took care of me.

[ it's a lot of gushing, a touch the same as when he spoke of gabi if not just more familiar and looking up to the eldest—and that wording might've been a fast way to throw a bucket of cold water on something so warm. falco seems wistful as they walk, still a smile to him that's as longing as any for a brother already gone. it didn't help too much to add that falco felt blame for it, but before he can feel any more melancholy: ]

Oh, but— Please don't feel bad for asking! I like talking about him.

[ it made him feel closer, somehow. ]