[ Depending on the size of the gang, it makes sense that there would be smaller groups within it, those who were used to working together and could trust each other in a tense situation. Thancred nods, understanding well enough the idea of a specialized team. The Scions are a small enough organization that he's worked with most of the members at least once or twice, but he's far more comfortable with the core group.

Jesper is right, of course. Any stripping of free will can't be accepted, but religious fervor and desperation has led to the tribal groups and others relying on the power of the primals. It's possible they've finally reached an age where they won't have to anticipate further summonings, but even if they do, they have the means to counteract it.

When he returns home, it will be to a brighter future. He truly believes that now, for as long as it took to get there.

At Jesper's quite pointed question, Thancred smiles wryly and gives a small shake of his head. ]

Both, I suppose. The Singularity seems to be filled with untapped power that we only barely understand. There's no telling what it might be capable of, and if any of the factions are able to harness that power, they might do all sorts of things with it.

[ Including mind control. Again, depending on their level of desperation. Thancred's seen enough cruelty in his time that he wouldn't put it past them. ]