"A soul forge would, indeed, be useful. They can be used for healing as much as for exploration. If we could manage that without the intervention of our benevolent hosts it would put us well on the way to autonomy." Which they sorely needed. It was becoming increasingly clear the Head needed to be segregated from them.

"Hmm," He's thoughtful and quiet for a moment as he brainstorms. "The Head collects all our memories through this chip?"