[His eyes study her expression as she trails off, the corners of his mouth giving the briefest of twitches upwards in amusement as she proceeds to fidget about with her fan. He was sure upon seeing her, of course, but if he had possessed any doubts regarding her existence as an actual person and not merely a cruel illusion... Those are long dispelled.

Mimicry is a skill, but even so he doubts anyone could properly capture Ayaka's fond affection for the Traveler with such an accurate portrayal.]

Not necessarily. While we ourselves are unable to do so, it appears our traveling friend is not the only one who possesses such abilities. This... vessel. [The infliction in his tone turns almost disdainful.] Seems to exist upon some separate form of reality not quite adjacent to ours. From my own prior conversations with others, [thanks ebalon] it's become clear that the entity in charge of this plane is the captain of the ship, and he is responsible for stealing away all the passengers from their own respective worlds. Ours - evidently - included.

[His free hand moves up to cover hers where it grips his arm, giving a reassuring squeeze.] I myself have been here for roughly... Two months, if my math is correct.