[It's impossible to stop how his body takes that praise and grasps it like a lifeline for a sinking man.

He hears it, often. In the midst of Shido's dimly lit office after a psychotic break or mental shutdown. Murder. The gut wrenching desire to puke overwhelmed by a need to hear-

He was needed. Wanted. Kept around because he was finally valuable

Shido needs him. Shido praises him. Akechi will kill him.

He hears it now. In the midst of a dimly lit yard that feels more ethereal than real some days, by someone's whose praise is stated in a tone so genuine-

He almost believes it. That he's needed. Wanted. Kept around because his value goes beyond what he can offer.

Maruki needs him. Maruki praises him. Akechi will kill him someday.

He offers a small smile - starts moving back to the castle doors with a slight wave of his hand.]

Of course - I'm only happy fortune brought us together, so you didn't need to experience it alone. Although -

[He's fucking hungry.]

You can sleep. I'm going to finish my plate before bed. I'm quite hungry tonight - maybe it's from all the exercise.