[ Maruki takes the journals gratefully, then the two phones – one an ancient brick Akira's not likely to have seen much of in his young life, the other a model not much older than the smart phones they're used to. He'll have to get one for Akira too– or would that be strange...

Ah, it doesn't matter. Everything gets thrown into the satchel he swings over his shoulder – the very same as the one Akira's found himself with, though the contract and potion are long gone. ]

Thank you.

[ As they begin to make their way through the garden, Maruki keeps their pace to a casual amble. Things have been relatively safe lately, which actually doesn't engender much in the way of calm for him; he is alert every step of the way, on the watch for anything that could swiftly go wrong. Whatever power Akira does have back in their true reality, he doesn't know the full extent of, but Maruki does know he's without it now. He won't let him be hurt. The idea alone sinks deep fangs into his heart, cold dread replaced by a fierce need to protect.

What a strange turn of events, being the one someone can rely on. Even if they don't know it yet. ]

This place is called Somnius. Its true nature is unknown. I've been operating under the assumption that it's some sort of cognitive world, but we haven't yet been able to find a way to break free. [ We, the population at large. We, he and Akechi. He'll get there. ] To put to rest an understandable concern up front, it's been proven several times over by those who have left and returned that your reality, as you know it, won't go on without you. You don't have to worry about friends or family knowing you're missing, or anything important left undone...

[ He pauses, mouth twisting, then glances over at Akira. ]

Please, ask anything that pops into your head. I know how surreal it is. I've been here for half a year.