[... oh this is bad. Hythlodaeus’ only head start is that his stride is so long. He stands between them, facing Emet-Selch. He’s too high for this. He places a hand on Emet’s bottle chuckin’ hand to still it. Just in case. ]

Yet, you bore this horrible burden without those that could understand you. How can anyone process such a thing without his friends? It is unspeakably sad. I don’t blame you for running from it.

[ He glances over his shoulder at Steven. ] Fatherhood seems to be a matter of personal strife for you. How long do your parents involve themselves in your upbringing here?