Keeping pace isn't a problem so much as keeping track of him. The woods are dark as hell, and it's by some small miracle that Johnny doesn't trip on a root and faceplant into the dirt many times over. He can hear Rush breathing, that's mostly how he manages to follow him.

"Okay, okay!" he calls finally, when his body is starting to revolt. "We've gone far enough, man, stop! Stop."

He drags to a halt and leans heavily against a tree, panting. Nova wriggles, and he sets her down at last, letting her move curiously toward Nathaira. It doesn't feel entirely safe here, but at least it seems quieter.

Johnny casts a wary glance at Rush. "Are you okay?" he asks.