There's a small moment of silence when he gives her a long look. It might be a little searching, sure, but it's ultimately quite different from the other times he's studied her this way. This is more like considering an equal, maybe even trying to read a friend. Because this is the first time he can really relate to what she's saying.

'Helpless' is another good word, really. It sums up a lot of his recent feelings towards Johto nicely. Especially after that conversation he had with Otacon a month or so ago - incredibly pessimistic in nature, but the conclusion that everything that happens in Johto is meaningless still seems ... well ... very true. Convincing. Tangible, even.

Which, in addition, calls for frustration and sadness, but the helplessness remains important in the mixed feelings. Mixed, because he genuinely wants to like Johto and everything in it. There are times when he does. Times when he genuinely loves it. But Johto has that way of taking an unexpected turn and leaving you stripped of that affection for quite some time.

"I think a lot of us are."

Mind still on the meaninglessness of everything, he knows it's at least true for him.