[It's hard to miss Yuan. It's always been hard to miss Yuan, even in the middle of a battle, four thousand years ago. For a man determined to kill Kratos at the time, he'd never mastered the art of not making himself known. He'd never tried.

[Kratos stares at Yuan's hand for a moment, and then accepts it; but when Yuan only means it as a reassurance, Kratos turns and steps a touch closer, turning it into a hug. He rests his chin on Yuan's shoulder and exhales, slowly. I think I can get there. It had been an attempt as reassurance, Yuan as much as himself. Kratos isn't so sure. But he's willing to try, and the first step has always been to say it out loud; even when they all meant to save the world so long ago.

[He doesn't know how many scars he's going to wind up having. But he'll get there -- he promises himself -- if only to fulfill Yuan's faith in him.

[Kratos opens his eyes and only now spots the children in the window and the door, half-hovering, as if unsure whether they're allowed to come out or not. When Lloyd sees him looking he breaks into a massive grin.]

That was so awesome! That sword is so awesome! Where did you get it, Dad?

[He's acting as though Kratos hasn't been having any trouble at all. Bemused and amused and touched, Kratos draws back from Yuan.]

It's -- a long story. It's a very old friend.