"I could be a bit more gracious about your assistance, however."

[She was able to look him in the eye when she said that. Much as she appreciated the other S.E.E.S. members, and valued them...Admitting a fault with them could often feel like she was trying to haul a boulder up Tartarus. With Akihiko it was-

Actually, it was more like carrying a smaller boulder up Tartarus. But the distinction was still there.]

"My thanks, Akihiko. I can direct you to my dorm, instead."