"I wouldn't call it likely that we'd be able to achieve that. It's no less important that we try."

He's certain Matt already understands both statements, though. Losses are to be exepected, whether that means loss of life or something else — and they've all lost things just by being here. But if the Summoned were so ready to lie down and accept an inevitable fate, they wouldn't be capable of acting as the weapons he suspects their 'hosts' want them to be.

"What about you?" he asks. "Any thoughts on your next steps, once you've fully recovered?"