I... don't understand entirely the meaning of your words. But I feel a weight upon my heart from the speaking of them regardless. I cannot say if I will ever truly understand.

[He stares at his hand for a moment.]

My very first memory is of the battlefield. I fought and fought, unable to even think until I had killed my thousandth foe and I was the lone survivor. Battle after battle, fight after fight, foe after foe, an endless and lifeless grey. I found awareness and still didn't find meaning. Someone else... Gave me colour, a reason to fight beyond my orders.

[Looking up at last, she can see a rather somber look.]

If roles were reversed, born with light and meaning and purpose to be thrust into the endless expanse of violence, I do not know I could stand it.

[And a little smile.]

It's a brave doctor who can be a soldier too.