"Unfortunately. Normally my staff would - it's not working as it ought." He grimaces, pained at having to admit that much. "Once we're on the ground, I should - "

He's going to say 'be able to handle myself,' but then he remembers the state of his magic. And the power of the things hunting them. His expression gets even more pained. The woman's already saved his life once. Now he has to ask her to consider saving it again?

On second thought, death is preferable.

" - At the very least, I can cast spells without interference."