[A sensible approach to the matter. She can appreciate that, just as she appreciates how sure his grip is there - briefly - in her hand hand. He can mope however long he likes; she suspects that good sense, that vibrant through line of him, will persist regardless.

Good. They have need of that kind of thing.]

A brood is a collection of hosts whose symbiotes are closely related. Yours - or the others who have woken up - will be expecting you when you arrive on planet.

[Speaking of--]

A ship will be arriving for you soon.