Hythlodaeus hunches his shoulders, as though trying to withdraw into himself, but the touch to his hand helps. He holds Hades's hand a little tighter, trying to steady himself emotionally.

"'Twould not be enough to make me leave you, Hades. 'Tis true that... I fear so much more now. I feel weak and helpless. Yet that is why I... I wish to see you happy. I wish for the world to be kinder, even if it is not our own."