Hm.

[Akechi says that he means nothing to him. If that's true, then that's a rather honest thing for him to say.

For something like that, Kazuya appreciates the honesty. Appreciates the blunt nature of Akechi's words where they might be a knife to the throat for someone else. After having dealt with someone manipulating him, and knowing that he was being manipulated, it's refreshing.

Maybe that's not healthy.

It's probably not healthy. And yet, when Kazuya speaks, there's no malice, only acceptance in his words. Akechi's are something he can live with. He'll think fondly of the other no matter what happens, he's sure.

Garm makes a grand reappearance from the trash, trotting to Kazuya's side and making an attempt to headbutt him fondly covered in garbage juice and rat viscera, only to be stopped by Kazuya's hand pushing it's head away. ]

I appreciate knowing where I stand with you. [Just so Akechi is clear.] I consider you a friend, though.

[Back to the task at hand, though, Kazuya turns his attention to the demon in full now, and it wags it's tail far too excitedly at the attention.]

Did you catch the scent of any others? An infestation has to be more than six rats.

[And of course, the demon barks. Loud. Obnoxious and sudden, with it's response.

"YES. ME GOOD HUNT DOG. ME CAN FIND MANY HIDING PLACES FOES ARE IN. TEAR THEM TO SHREDS. DEVOUR THEIR BONES. AWOOO."]

Then lead us to them, would you? We're not going to get paid if you just stand around here.