The nails drew a quiet gasp from him, but the sound didn't seem to come from his mouth. Neither was his voice.

"Perhaps." The tendrils were more in motion now, sliding over Cipher Nine's thighs and waist, his hands moving in unison with them, seeking what contact might inspire the most response in its mind.

The shell slid back to reveal his mouth once again, and his voice shifted in his head. "I will not endeavor to do so. I have no reason to. And you would reject all conscious attempts."