Some of the enthusiasm dips out of his voice - not enough to imply that this is a hurtful subject, but he isn't looking forward to this conversation. Chouji won't like to hear it. In the beginning, they were here together, side-by-side, and now...

"Let me explain things when I find you, Chouji. I know this place well, so it shouldn't be hard finding your location." He centers himself at a good angle before giving further instruction. "Do you have enough chakra to get to the top of a tree?"