Fuck. That hurt way more than it should have, despite him implying just the same thing to everyone he's talked to on the subject. Hurt flashes in his expression for a second before he manages to push it down, gritting his teeth instead. He expected this. This is what he's up against. He has to prove himself, dammit.

"I did not realize you were so wasteful, General," he says, between clenched teeth. "Even a life such as mine can be useful."