[. . . well, that protest isn't surprising. it's what he expected from her. Akira wants to respect her wishes as well, and in the end? if she doesn't want to do this, then he won't force her]

[but he will make his case]

You volunteered because I broke my promise. Because watching what happened yesterday without being able to do anything about it broke me down. You volunteered because. . .

[the next part is painful]

Because the Barghest used you to murder Iwai, and you believe that that fact makes you a killer.

It doesn't, Makoto. And you wouldn't be here if I hadn't said anything. If I had kept my mouth shut just like I said I would.

[takes a step towards her, mouth curved into a soft smile]

I'm not doing this because I think you have more worth than I do, or because I think it's okay for me to be a sacrificial lamb, or because I'm tired and have given up. I'm not doing this because I think I deserve to die more than you do.

[a breath]

I'm doing it because I love you. Because you're here only because of what I've done.

. . . because I trust you to save me. To save everyone.