At the reminder that no, he isn't really an accepted member of Keeliai's society despite doing a good job of making a small niche for himself. The kedan are growing more tolerant of him yet tolerance is not the same as acceptance.

"...I will," he agrees slowly, thinking it over. "If someone is trying to hurt me I'll make sure not to retaliate in self-defense."

If it will help bolster better relations between him and the locals, Akito can handle a beating. And if it's just something inconsequential like vandalism there wouldn't be any reason to defend himself anyway.