[For Souji's part, he thinks about the words he's never quite had the heart to say, hovering closer to the edge of every conversation the sicker he grows. Risk my life, waste it if necessary, but don't let the sickness take me before a sword does. There is no way of saying that to someone who cares about you in good conscience, even if you fear every day that your weakness might make them love you less.]

I suppose so. A lot of the time we chose to stay trapped for other people's sakes, right? So they won't worry, or so they won't be alone... but maybe that's really because we're afraid of being alone.

[A one-shouldered shrug and a small laugh, as if he realizes that maybe this is a rather serious conversation to be having here.]

I just know I've never liked the idea of anyone being trapped for my sake.