As happy as Glacius is to see the city vanish from sight, Carlisle is far happier to hear they may be stopping soon. His hand trembles in his partner's grasp, his legs quaking beneath him, the pack on his back seemingly heavier than it was when they left.

"I—" He swallows some air, trying to catch his breath. "I'm fine. Just- just winded." He leans forward to brace his hands on his knees, giving his back a break as he continues, his words punctuated by breaths. Despite the chill, he feels a bead of sweat on his brow, and he debates removing his scarf. "I hadn't thought we would stray so far from the city, I will admit, and I have not walked difficult terrain extensively in some time. I merely need a moment."