You want to help the town?

[He thought they were talking about helping him, here! Howard scowls, actually stepping back from the other.]

I thought you said that the jobs here were pointless. I thought you...agreed with me...

[What's worse is that he feels those feelings wash over him, is unconsciously pleased that somebody here understands him and wants to help, but the part of him that is too stubborn and petty to be moved is fighting hard with it. If Atsushi really understands him, then why is he helping this place...?]

[He folds his arms - his expression tightens, clearly verging on annoyance.]

It's pointless, Atsushi. Don't do it. Don't get in the way of what's fated for this town. Please. It's not worth it.