He had pulled back from the hug, but stayed close to continue their conversation as if nothing out of the ordinary happened. The senior often expressed affection to his team members in various ways, but there was something different about Minako. He seemed to notice more about her than others. Then again, that made perfect sense, since her health and mental state was holding their team together.

"I guess not... I know I've gotta train harder so I can protect all of you guys, and nothing's gonna stop me from doing that." He was a man that learned from his mistakes, and tried his best not to repeat them. "Still... it wouldn't hurt to know what we're fighting against."

Minako was staying silent, for some reason... Akihiko had to wonder if he just said something wrong. She didn't seem offended, though?

"Wow!" He exclaimed with a laugh. "I definitely haven't seen that look on you in a long while. Are you okay? You're not feeling sick, are you?" He poked her red cheek with one finger.