They're both small carnivores with sharp teeth, four legs, tails and claws....

[It's a valid point about the fermentation, though. Hakkai doesn't argue.]

But different species. So... not so different, and it can accomplish some similar things. But it's different in kind, not--

[This is really a conversation that's too technical to be having while he's feverish and exhausted, but, on the other hand, it's the sort of fascinating question he really enjoys discussing. Don't mind his falling silent with a thoughtful squint while he considers the right analogy, though, D2.]

-- not like one thing in two different states.

[Even for a youkai who was once human.]