He wore the same pained smile his reflection did, but it was much more apparent, being the real thing. Seeing Ico right away stirred him, as few others could. Ico had a very distinct appearance, given the horns. But it wasn't that alone. Ico had been a very constant presence in a lot of ways beyond the external. He was constantly kind, interested, and eager to share more of the world with Martin.

And, as it was the first time he wore new skin, Martin once again felt himself welling up with all the joy and guilt and sorrow that came with thinking of every hurtful and happy moment. And, moreover, the truth that he hadn't managed to warn or ultimately protect the boy from what Catsovi had set into motion.

"Yes," he said, smiling a little broader in spite of the tears on Ico's face. "Hello."