[That was a relief. Exploring through the darkness, even knowing it was virtual, was not something he wanted to do alone. Like Mondo and Ishimaru, Leon was a good example of the sort of man he hoped he could be. Hopefully someday he could offer his help so selflessly even in frightening situations like this.]

I'm truly grateful for your help Kuwata-san.

[Though when he starts walking and the topic of conversation changes, he finds a new uncertainty growing in the pit of his stomach. A lot to talk about? Really, he doesn't deserve this help. He should be the one apologizing; he'd played a part in the majority vote that had condemned Leon. Even if he was alright, the wound in his heart at his classmate's betrayal had to sting.]

Mmm. I guess that's true.

[Chihiro spoke softly, but nodded and took the lead, taking pains to not glance over his shoulder nervously. Leon was watching his back, it was okay, right?]

Um. I was-

[The gym bag he carried over one shoulder was painfully obvious, but he couldn't just admit to Leon that he'd been on his way to meet Mondo at the men's gym.]

Ogami-san and Asahina-san offered to show me how the weighted machines work. I-in the gym.

[It was a lie, but not that far from the truth. They really had been enthusiastic to hear he wanted to become stronger. He hoped Mondo hadn't grown too upset waiting on him to arrive.]

I was on my way to meet them. That's the last thing I remember. U-um. Why do you ask?