Dib looked at his chest, touching it gently. "You..."
"Keep it to yourself, filth-boy," Zim said quietly, turning to face Dib. "That piggie was expensive... To think I wasted it on you...."
"...Thanks, Zim," Dib said quietly, turning his back on his enemy.
"This changes nothing, Dib-monster," Zim reminded him. "I will still take over Earth, and you will be the first to go."
"...You're too soft, Zim."
Zim spun around, his ruby eyes burning in hate and disbelief. "What!?"
"You... You can't stand it. Pain. Fear. You hate it." Dib turned, seeing Zim's uncertain look as he questioned himself. "Even in others, especially when it effects you. When I died... When Mir killed me like that... You--"
"Your screams had lodged into my superior mind," Zim hissed, narrowing his eyes at Dib. "The only pity I feel is for those of you who have to live such worthless lives."
Dib managed weak smile to himself before walking out of the base. Zim watched him go before standing slowly, watching Dib leave with a faint touch of regret.
...Is it true? he wondered silently, making his way through the base. Do I fear... Pain? Zim stopped in front of the big test tube Gir floated in, his cyan eyes shut softly, his body wired up as his upgrade continued, floating in the teal water as bubbles rose around him.
...Do I... fear?
Master.....