[Joshua's brows knit together in concern as Kazuya reveals the extent of his connection to Naoya, his mind racing to process the implications thereof. Surely, it’s a precarious position to find oneself in, and he’s caught between admiration and sympathy. Both would probably serve offensive to the teenager beside him, so he refrains from indulging in either. Still, to willingly surrender one's free will, to bind oneself to another's whims—it's a sacrifice that speaks volumes of Kazuya's character, of the lengths he's willing to go for the sake of... what, exactly? Trust?]

[Or maybe a lack thereof?]

[Clearly, Kazuya trusts Naoya. Given the warning he’s just shared, Joshua’s uncertain as to why, although he’ll broach that topic once his brain quiets down from reviewing possibilities. No, the lack of trust… could it be in himself? In his ability (or potential lack therelf) to control his power as the King of Demons?]

[He once told Joshua to escape by any means possible should the worst come to pass. Made him promise as much. He’d revealed he held a contract with Naoya back then, but not the considerable extent of it.]

Thank you. For your honesty.

[In all regards. As such, Joshua’s tone is earnest, his eyes finding purchase in finding Kazuya’s to reflect whatever his voice cannot.]

I spoke with Naoya recently, and I felt a sincerity in his words. He spoke of our friendship, and I want to believe him—but I also wish to heed your warning.

So… I suppose my question is why do you trust him with your free will? ‘Tis the very essence of who you are, it isn’t a decision made lightly.

[There’s no judgment, just an overt acknowledgement of the sacrifice Kazuya is making. To Joshua, free will is everything. It is what he and his brother and all of their companions are fighting, bleeding, dying to preserve.]

[To give it up, just like that… he won’t judge Kazuya, but he needs to know why.]