Howard holds his breath for a minute, trying to think that through. On one hand, Orc's right. It doesn't matter. This is and always has been the chance for a fresh start, and even if Howard didn't grab it with both hands once he arrived, he can't deny he's reinvented himself a little. Orc could do the same.

And yet it's not as if they can just put it behind them. Howard knows, from the nightmares and the paranoia and the oppressing, overwhelming sense of horror just around the corner, that the FAYZ will never be erased from them. It's like a brand they'll wear, even if sometimes only they and Diana can see it.

Even if no one else ever finds out about that kid, Orc will know. And he'll wear that tattoo too.

Howard reaches a hand up and rests it on Orc's shoulder in a quiet gesture of comfort. "Yeah. You're right. Doesn't matter."