(Istredd has been sheltered for decades. The way he was raised was rough and violent and dangerous, but then he got to walk away and do whatever he wanted. His research was encouraged, money given to follow his passions, and he went years without speaking much to others or making connections. Then he came here and he found out fairly quickly that opening up was a two-edged blade. He hasn't cared this much since he was a child. It's exhausting.

The trauma is going to stick with him for a time, although it will mostly be physical responses to external reminders. Istredd isn't that concerned; they're all going to survive it now.

He smiles at Jack's genuine disappointment, feeling like his instinct was correct to come and tell him. It's a little thing, being reminded of the sad turtle on the ship, but relevant.)

Yes, I think it was exactly that. So we were very lucky that we did manage to save him from those birds. We'd all be drowned if not.

( There is no doubt about that. It seemed like an insane last miracle. The Summoned left behind and the people there to save them did come very close to disaster. No one made it out of this situation well. )

I wonder if we'll see him again.