"The duel is a start. We can always work out the finer details later." But yes, the handshake does bring things full circle, no matter how much this place has changed him and how much it'll continue to change him...

Both of them, in theory. His brows knit, and his lips pull into a thin line. It's troubling. The lack of agency in their circumstances is bad enough. The transformations, without consent, unpredictable and sometimes brutal...

It's a punishment befitting Akechi, appearance matching the wretchedness inside. But Ren isn't like Akechi. He doesn't deserve this.

But here he is, and a selfish part of Akechi is grateful for his presence.

Eventually, he withdraws his hand, scanning their surroundings for more equipment. "Besides, I owe you information."

But... hmm. A spare tire tucked beneath a workbench catches his eye, so he moves to grab it. "So, where would you like to start?"