[ That leaves Souji speechless for a half a minute, letting it all sink in. As much as he might not admit it, a part of him agrees with it. What if he's not there, like when Naoto has gone home for the first time or when Rise and Yosuke has lost their souls? What if it happens again? He's not going to risk that. ]

[ With a sharp breath though his nose, he tries to relax. He's not going to let down his defences so easily. ] And because I'm their Leader, Sensei, Senpai, and Partner, I won't get tired or need rest. This is what I've chosen, not what I've been forced into.