[ As much as Dokja would love to make light of this situation, he's really lacking the energy for it. At the very least, he does keep his tone brighter than how he feels, and the strained smile on his face is still a smile, even if Eustace can't see it from where he is. ]

Ready as I'll ever be.

[ Dokja senses the worry that still hangs over them, and it's guilt that gnaws on his insides this time. It's so easy to regret telling Eustace about this and putting him in this position. He wants to flee, to do this on his own, to not have anyone concerned about him, but it's too late now and all Dokja can do now is press forward. ]

You don't have to stick around, you know. It should take a few days, and I can find my way back.

[ If he makes it back, of course. But that part is very pointedly not said. ]