[Akechi sits next to him - close, only the smallest sliver of space separating. It's uncomfortable.

Quiet.

He doesn't break the silence for a minute, then two and-]

Let me be blunt-

[Whatever's happening Eren's head has to stop. They don't have the luxury to lament the loss of those always meant to leave.]

Aubrey is a strong woman - you helped her become that. Physically. Mentally. Even without powers, I feel as if her will rivaled those of gods at times. In her reality, or should she be pulled back here or to any others, nothing will shake her again. She'll go on to live a long life, unburdened by an unjust world. Your bond with her allowed her heart to be free.

[It's a lie - it's the truth. He hates Aubrey. He doesn't miss her. Wonders if all her friends greeted her the day she arrived back.]

You have a power to make others stronger - this cannot with her. With the rest of your entourage. With Maruki or whoever else you deem worthy in this moment. It's a gift you have that no one else can match and our greatest asset in this fight.

[It's dark. He can see still see the grooves between the tile under their feet - follows the lines with his eyes up to the cabinet and back.]

For as long as these lights are off, you can grieve to your heart's content - do whatever you wish. I won't hear or see a thing, just as you didn't a few weeks ago. I'll allow this much and I'll remain here to ensure this room stays yours.

[No one will come in. He'll send a nasty text about it if they try. There's more than one bathroom in this place.

But when they flip the lights back on and leave-]

Do you understand?