His mouth opened and closed, pursed tight at her assurance. So many people said that — no need to apologize. Some in kinder words than others. He'd never acknowledged it as much of a habit or problem until Exsilium; it just made him feel stranger.

Martin almost said sorry again, but swallowed it.

"All sorts," he said, faltering a little. It seemed weird to stagger back to that; as if talking about monsters were at all good conversation to have with a human. Then again, he didn't know anything about what'd be proper, and it wasn't like he was in Olvoski anyhow, so...

"There's a lot. Back where I live. So we have to kill them, so people can stay alive."