[ Akechi listens to the exposition in quiet contemplation, idle gaze resting on the basin. So Akira is still trying to learn who he is, huh...? ]

I understand.

[ It's not just an empty platitude, either. He truly does understand-- truly relates to it on a personal level. ]

But, figuring yourself out... that's not quite the same for you as it is for everyone else, is it? Knowing that malicious demons and wrathful gods are such a direct part of your heart, doesn't that place you at odds with your sense of righteousness? Doesn't that make you scared you might succumb to the worst of yourself...?

[ Because Akechi surely has. And lately, he's been thinking that might have been a choice that he regrets. ]