[ Some part of him had immediately regretted specifying the word "game" - yet, the way Ardyn had looked afterward, is the only reason he continues on. There's something about it that feels familiar.

And, sure enough, by the end of it, Ardyn looks the way Akira feels after most of his nightmares.

Is it possible that he was put through something similar? Or could it be something else entirely, that just happens to bring up horrible memories? His own expression is tense, though it's more a case of genuine concern for this older man. He gives a shake of his head, and his voice is quiet and reassuring. ]

It's not your fault. Besides, I- [ something flickers over his expression; remnants of guilt? ] -survived all the way through.

[ "I'm fine, comparatively." ...But, his boyfriends would be upset, and he is trying to train himself to not think that way. ]

And... in the end, we were all given the option of helping them fight, or to return back home, and to our normal lives.

[ That sure is a sudden flash of bitterness in his eyes, but it fades right back into the concern. ]

Is it okay if I ask what the simulation was?