[ Istredd is one of the most knowledgeable people in the castle, being so focused on research and history that he's basically made it his unpaid career. It's his position in the welcome parties to walk people through details and magic, rather than the friendly schmoozing part. This is the thing he's very good at.

One thing he's not good at: deceit. The most he does is hide around the truth, such as telling her 'they like to supply us' when what he means is they like to control them. He can see her relaxing her stance at least so he hopes that means something good. ]

I try to avoid trouble. I'm a scholar. But they've put other Summoned in there.

[ And they will again. ]

I am sorry you have been put in this position with the rest of us, but we have no way of getting home as of now.