[Phos plunks down on the empty cot, legs sticking out in front. They're gangling and awkward in the way kids are when they're growing, face round and babyish. But their eyes are an unnatural teal that matches their eyelashes and short hair too.

They nod firmly, hands slapping down on their knees.]

I'm a gem, but everyone says I'm a human and my body is all weird and squishy and it makes noises and I'm not as fast now but...

[Their outburst trails off as they look downward nervously, fidgeting a little.]

and I don't know what will happen if I shatter.