One hand balls into a fist at his side. If he had Ren's mother in front of him now....

But no. He has to stay calm. This isn't too big for him, even if his heart wants to burst from his chest. Big is what he does. He comes closer, dropping into a crouch at Ren's side. "Ren," he says again, louder. "It's Akechi. Can you hear me?"