[Guilt sparks in his core upon Ion's flinch. Even stronger, however, is the fury that boils beneath his skin.]

So what! You didn't choose to be created. You were brought into a life that wasn't your own . . . How can that be selfish? Whether you were born or made, you're still a person, aren't you!

[He sucks in a sharp breath, and his voice takes a turn for the weaker—a whimpering plea.]

Your compassion . . . your sorrow and your pain . . . They make you real.