[color=89cff5][i]So it's capable of abstract thought,[/i][/color] thought Lyre. Indeed, abstract thought often came with the innate sense of self, but not always.

[color=89cff5][i]This is...unexpected, to say the least.[/i][/color]

The scientist stared at the floor, watching the biofluid ripple. Though the specimen obviously wouldn't hurt her, she remained on guard nonetheless. Her shoulders and legs tensed. Her heartbeat still rushed in her ears, loud and staccato and rapid. She bunched the pillowcase fabric in her hand, chafing the two cotton layers so hard it turned hot.

[color=89cff5][b]"Hello, Tyssa."[/b][/color] Lyre sounded the name carefully. She considered its syllables, the unique way the specimen pronounced the name. Was it English? Some foreign tongue? Or merely a mutation of words that the hybrid embryo managed to pick up?

[color=89cff5][i]This is a bug.[/i][/color] She lifted her eyes from the floor and stared at Tyssa's tail instead. [color=89cff5][i]I never programmed a pre-existing name. Nor should it have the capability of self-motivation.[/i][/color]

[color=89cff5][b]"Why do you ask about your purpose?"[/b][/color] inquired Lyre dryly.