Lukas and Oak dramatically switched topics until Axel returned. When he did, he was tired but still energised enough to continue, much like Lukas returning after having to run someone back himself. True to his word, Axel wasn't overly exhausted and seemed capable of doing the same task as Lukas. Moreover, he wasn't complaining, which was always a good thing.
They gave him a minute to unwind and gather himself, much like they did for Lukas earlier that day. During that time, however, a call cried out somewhere south of them. Lukas was about to run off when he remembered that Axel had taken over and was now resting.
"Axel, a–"
"Yeah..." he sighed, breathing heavily, "I know... I heard it."
"What should we do, you're still catching your breath."
"Just go, I'll be fine."
"What if you get attacked?"
"Go!" Axel said with as much conviction as he could force through the constant movement of his lungs.
