[Later, Akechi will speak to him in this empty, lightless room that protects - offer unprompted advice in a near silent whisper. 'Don't form bonds that will ruin you. If that means being alone, that's what it requires.' Weakness is a luxury. Eren is allowed one moment because he gave one when Akechi didn't know he needed it most. He gets one to repay a debt. He gets one-
Because that's what allies are supposed to do. It's the image he's trying to convey. It's a mercy kind hearted princes give, even though that vision vanishes in front of Eren more often than not these days.
He gets one because the warm hand clasping his against a thigh is a lifeline. Akechi reached for one in the throes of his grief as a child, and never got it. Eren should receive the same treatment. Eren knows he can't rely on people, so reaching out now should be punished.
Akechi doesn't move. Stays ramrod straight, completely still, and does nothing as promised for the duration of their time in there. Ignores noise. Doesn't even turn towards Eren. Fills the silence with thoughts about this world, this reality, the numerous others waiting and the singular one they'll all return to.
However long it takes, Akechi stays. However long this lasts, he waits. When Eren loosens the grip on his hand, he pulls back. When they stand-
Akechi pulls at the loose hairs at the back of Eren's head - readjusts the bun because he's absolutely pathetic and they can't leave a dark bathroom together looking like a mess. The line of questioning that would follow-
He doesn't want to deal with it.
'That's all the time you get' are his final parting words before a blaring, brilliant light shines over them.]
cw: ughhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Because that's what allies are supposed to do. It's the image he's trying to convey. It's a mercy kind hearted princes give, even though that vision vanishes in front of Eren more often than not these days.
He gets one because the warm hand clasping his against a thigh is a lifeline. Akechi reached for one in the throes of his grief as a child, and never got it. Eren should receive the same treatment. Eren knows he can't rely on people, so reaching out now should be punished.
Akechi doesn't move. Stays ramrod straight, completely still, and does nothing as promised for the duration of their time in there. Ignores noise. Doesn't even turn towards Eren. Fills the silence with thoughts about this world, this reality, the numerous others waiting and the singular one they'll all return to.
However long it takes, Akechi stays. However long this lasts, he waits. When Eren loosens the grip on his hand, he pulls back. When they stand-
Akechi pulls at the loose hairs at the back of Eren's head - readjusts the bun because he's absolutely pathetic and they can't leave a dark bathroom together looking like a mess. The line of questioning that would follow-
He doesn't want to deal with it.
'That's all the time you get' are his final parting words before a blaring, brilliant light shines over them.]