[ While the technicalities of how this whole thing worked, he did understand the gesture behind Akira offering his one hand to him. Perhaps that was why he took it without question, holding it firmly but not enough that it would be causing any discomfort as he then met Akira's gaze.

He's not quite used to someone saying something like that to him, so it has his eyes widening just a touch before his expression turns warm; assured and confident. ]

Heh. Never thought i'd see the day where someone would trust me with their life, but... I can say it goes both ways in this case, Joker. I don't say this lightly, either. You're reliable and can hold your own in a fight, and I pretty much consider you something like a brother if that says anything.

[ First time he's stating this aloud but surely this should be obvious anyway? Either way, he feels no hesitations about what's to come. Being able to put his trust in Akira and having that returned was a valuable thing, after all. ]

I'm ready. Let's face this with no regrets.