[It takes a split second, but Kratos does orient himself and continue on as if there weren't a beat, as if his legs aren't jelly. He doesn't miss Yuan reaching out -- but the retracted aid is better than being swept off his feet.

[It takes a minute for Kratos to realise why his lack of history with Botta might be important; and that causes a pang, that he has to stop and think about what Yuan means. Then Kratos chuckles, low.]

He thinks you're being sentimental. Does he know you nearly killed me twice in the space of a day?

[Once with that swallow-blade; the other, while braiding his hair for him.]