[ it's funny. he's never really had a hobby, or an interest. when Akechi took something up, it used to be that it was for the purpose of presentation, and he only ever looked at it that way, as a test, as something he had to do right. learning at the pace Erika teaches him has carved out a different space in his perspective, because it can't fit where things usually do. he can't perform for her, or even for anyone else yet. so instead he has to just... consider things as they come, try to fit them into the knowledge he has now and see where the edges line up. like building a jigsaw puzzle as Erika hands him the pieces of it.

which is to say, he takes the sheet and looks it over with quiet interest, and knows that this is unusual for himself. ]

I think you've summarised the problem precisely. People tend to want goals. They find it easier to continue if they can see the light at the end of the tunnel. But there's a risk of complacency in hope, especially one that isn't under our control. [ this is where he does rein himself in a little, presents a calmer front; inside, he feels nothing but disdain for the way people are latching onto the desperate belief that the disappeared passengers have gone home. blind idealism like that has never done anyone well, and it spreads like a poison.

what Erika said takes precedent, though, and after a moment of processing it in silence, he looks at her with a hint of confusion in the way his brow furrows. ]

Ah... Mishima-san, if your needs run counter, then... [ it's an easy conclusion to move towards, since his situation is the same: ] Your goal isn't to return home?