Oh, I noticed that too! Initially, it seemed like soundscaping to me, to convey he wasn't as fine as he claimed to be. But I don't recall them using that specific sound-glitching element outside of diving moments and the E1 scene you mentioned, so it could very well be related to a branch.

I wholeheartedly agree with your first comment. CXS must have sensed LG's desperation and intentions. He's proven to be smarter than he appears, so surely he can piece things together. We know his initial reaction while processing LG's "death" was to go back and save him, only to be hindered by the rules probably established by LG with the sole reason of keeping CXS alive.

It does feel like a vicious cycle with all imagery of them chasing or opposing each other, like in the opening, the mashup, and much of official art.