More shock waves tear through the dreamscape. Akechi's eyes pop wide open, unblinking, and he draws a sharp breath. That's...

No. He needs to be rational. "Love" comes in many forms. Ren said people. That implies plural. It's not...

He should set his cup down, just to be safe.

He tries smoothing his feathers, tries adjusting his posture. He feels that fear pulsing through. His own fear bubbles in return.

"Rather a bold statement, given that I nearly murdered you."