It doesn't sound like there could be any "let HTC off the hook". The whole point of this is that HTC is seeking an injunction against Apple. Even if Apple withdrew all complaints, HTC could still seek that injunction.
Apple won round one and really screwed HTC http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/12/20/us-htc-apple-paten... . It's not in HTC's interest to pick a fight will mighty Apple at all, so the best scenario for HTC would a deal with Apple. Apple can sue them again and again and again for patent after patent. Even the legal fees will be felt by HTC
Remember: HTC's loyalties are with their shareholders, not to fight a war against Apple on behalf of Google or Android fans. If their board determined that selling bottled water was better than making phones, they have a duty to pivot. Google (Motorola) is different, they have a much larger stake in Android.