He had opened his mouth to respond, but Hythlodaeus cuts in with his usual flippancy and he has to shoot his friend an exasperated look.

"That is what we are seeking to confirm: whether or not his ability touches the soul of a being or is limited to living people," he eventually says.

He's struggling to understand why Irhya looks less than enthused to be here. Taking advantage of a moment when she has turned away, he looks askance at Hythlodaeus.