[Akechi knows why they're meeting on some desolate, secluded beachside long before Maruki's words reach him.

He knew when the text came. Knew when he typed out an acknowledgment and confirmation of the time to meet. Knew when he passed by Akira's room and saw life in an empty space that lacked it only a week ago that this is what they were going to talk about.

They need to confirm information, relay details and be on the same page with this new resource. A familiar person who feels like a stranger and friend at the same time. He's sure Maruki feels same. It's a case, like any other. Missing memories or not, an Akira from another reality is still Joker.

And Joker is someone he hates more than anyone else in this goddamn world and-

Joker is stronger than anyone he's ever met - even Maruki pales in comparison, though he's yet to realize that.]

How stupid do you think I am? I knew what you wanted to discuss. I wouldn't have come here if I didn't agree with you - in fact, let me turn that threat back around. If you try to leave before I'm through, you'll pay for it.

[A few meters away from Maruki, arms crossed over his newly acquired winter coat - it's not cold enough for it yet, but the brisk air feels ice when the ocean breeze picks up.]

So let's begin - first, we'll both confirm what we've found out about his reality. It's not ours, but it may be one we're familiar with due to this world's previous distortions. I've written down what I recall about a few of them - however I'll admit the details are fuzzy. Some more than others.

[He can feel those fucking marks on his eye - metaphorically speaking. The sensation blinked away with an uptick of the wind.]

Second, we'll narrow down his timeline and other facts he's relayed or we've gleaned. Third-

We'll decide if he's real or not, and deal with it appropriately.

[If it's this world fucking with them-

Well, Akechi will handle it today.]

So start - relay all you know.