I've spent my life studying magic for the benefit of the people. Turning it against them is... it feels like I am betraying my knowledge as well as myself.

[And he still can't bear to kill another sapient being. It's his reluctance to hurt that makes his mana situation so dire, and why he's not so forthcoming with that information. As Caren explains, his eyes widen.

She knows.

He lets out a breath.]

How can you offer so nonchalantly, even knowing what I am? Mana exchange is a way of life here but mana addiction is not! It is a hunger that never ceases. It gnaws and it wants, and even the strongest-willed people have lost themselves to it. People I knew became Wretched, pitiable gray things lurking in the shadows and preying upon the weak.

[He wrings his hands.]

I appreciate what you are trying to do, but... I fear I might lose control and... take more than you can give. And then you will be hurt.