Magpie doesn't like it either, putting it mildly; he shakes his head. His grip on Raven tightens as he glances down to check him.

"Falcon and I were of a strength, after the Palace. I'd say most of us were." He inclines his head a little in Drake's direction, in acknowledgement if nothing else. "But, truthfully, I suspect his abilities would still give him the edge. He can be provoked, though. He can—lose control."

Some O-rings roll up into Falcon's core, on their edge. Magpie watches them morosely. What does an android even need O-rings for? "Of course, we have people here who've taken down would-be gods. Beings of great power. Crow has done it more than once."

Crow, who has got to be having an aneurysm, what with Raven's distress. But there's nothing to be done about that.