It's certainly a possibility. [His fingers tap against the table, voice nice and even.] But it's also one I'm not worried about.

[And finally, Akira sits. He sits, because there's no reason to stand anymore. Now, he's certain of it. Now, he knows that he has an advantage.

It wasn't really a surprise, though, even as it makes that empty space inside of him ache. The piece that Akechi needs to confirm any of this is something that he'll never have, because it comes long after his time.]

I trust Maruki-san, because I trust the people who know about what he told me. Even the ones that can be talkative... It isn't something they'd say to others lightly.

[He'd discussed it with the others, but Maruki is the only one he ever spoke about his theory to. Anyone else wouldn't even know that he'd made the connection.

Akira has enough confidence now that he isn't afraid. He can go on the offensive now. He crosses his legs as he gazes at Akechi, assessing his reactions.]

I'm noticing that you have a lot of interesting hypotheticals for someone you happen to be living with. [He tilts his head to the side; his glasses clearly show the sharp brightness of his eyes.] Has something about living with Maruki-san given you a reason to distrust him?

[Is Maruki hiding something? Is Akechi a threat to Maruki? He'll glean these as best as he can.]