"Yes, they always manage to pull him out of his mire at the end of the day." And he was the one who was supposed to feel grateful? "With a little help, of course." Not this time, though. This would be the end, one way or another. It felt strange, after so many years, to be waiting to direct the boy to his death. He had thus far avoided giving it very much thought, and it hadn't been difficult - there was plenty more to distract him. "The number shifts," he replied, not wanting to put too fine a point on it lest he encourage an outright mutiny. There weren't that many, really. "With comings and goings, perhaps some impending additions to the ranks ... But whatever the number, they have considerable resources at their disposal, including, I'm sure, quite a lot of backup." There was a knowing weariness to his voice. "So please don't go doing anything rash."