[Asch is quiet at that for a long moment, his brows furrowed, gaze low. As uncomfortable as this discussion is for him, he's many years beyond the angry, bitter, close-mouthed youth he used to be. Not that he isn't still all of those things, but he's an adult now- and with his coming of age is a certain degree of... tolerance. He's not sure if he can grant himself the trait of "mature" just yet. One step at a time.

Either way, he finally just nods.]

I understand.

Luke doesn't remember, but I do.

[The pain, the humming machinery, the unwilling screams of a terrified child. His shaky, broken heaves and sobs when the room went silent and he heard his replica take his first breath beneath him.

Van's solemn, serious voice telling him how necessary it was as Spinoza delightedly announced what an incredible feat they've accomplished.

"He's perfect, Commandant. A perfect isofon. This is a grand day for scientific advancement!"]

They always smile at their own success, even at the cost of someone's suffering.