[ Akihiko listens, eyes widening as Yu recalls what are undoubtedly some painful memories. He hates asking a near stranger to conjure them up, but appreciates that he’s willing to share his experience. ]

I’m… I’m really sorry that happened to you and your friends. Even if it’s not permanent, I can’t imagine how you must have felt. [ He has an inkling, since he’s gone through such a feeling before, and it’s not something he’d wish on anyone. He sighs, easing himself off the rope. ] That’s right. That’s exactly why I want to keep getting stronger-- it’d be way too easy to let your guard down here.