[Aelius gives Yuan a sharp look at that, but it stops short of the previous loathing owing to a wall of puzzlement. Kratos exhales, Yuan's question calling him away from numb dread to purely stomach-twisting dread.]

Yes.

[He knows it's possibly not wise, and yet -- he can't bear the thought of turning his eyes away now. He hadn't been able to stand for Nike. He can do this. Kratos turns his gaze back to Aelius, returning the grip loosely around Aelius's wrist.]

Aelius. Don't do anything rash. Be patient. Survive for yourself. That's your duty now, understand?

[Aelius's jaw sets.]

With all due respect, Master Kratos -- my duty is, has been and always will be to the Aurion household, no matter how scattered it might be currently.