[Derek's jaw clenches and his wings tighten up and plaster flat against his back. It's not a rejection of Spock's sympathy, but rather an effort to keep himself on an even keel. He's only too aware that most if not all of his team will be dead by the end of it, probably even him. But he can't afford to mourn. Not yet. Not until it's done and maybe not even then.

His voice is quiet, but more or less steady when he answers.]

You'd be grieving for a long time; it's not that unusual for a hunt like this to go bad. It's part of the risk we all take, every time.

...but, thank you.