( A couple wars and a guilt complex will do a number on your muscle memory. Often times the body moves faster than the higher brain, thanks to a certain artificial something running through his blood. He's got good intentions, even if the execution's not always up to par.

He follows her point. Does a mental tally, compares it to the mission briefing — yeah. One short, and there's absolutely god-awful communication going on among the rescue party. No way of knowing if someone else is already in route or they're the last ones left to recover him.

Another pause, a glance at her, a quick assessment.

Worked earlier, and it's a hell of a lot smarter to have a second set of eyes so he doesn't get tentacled in the back. Doesn't seem like she's going anywhere, and he knows better than to challenge it.

He tips his head toward the intersection, at the path leading deeper instead of out. )

Looks like they have a four foot range, maybe more. Try to save it if there's just one. I can handle one, and it's easier if I can see it. If there's a cluster...

( Do the thing. )

Should keep us from getting overwhelmed long enough to put them down.