[A brief pained look flashes over Vincent's eyes, but he does not look away from Sephiroth. How much he should say, but assure it is not meant as an excuse -- it's difficult. Regardless, Vincent will give him the truth of it.]

For a very long time, I was in the laboratory in Nibelheim. There were... several years that choice was robbed of me. Hojo was all too glad to keep me informed of your growth and conditioning.

I thought it best after a time to pay penance for my sins, for being unable to do anything for you and your mother. I am... [Now he looks down to his gauntlet, fingers flexing.] I no longer age. If I had an eternity to dwell in my nightmares, then so be it.