[ Ah. He wasn't expecting that, so out of the blue, but he bows his head and accepts the compliment with quiet humility. His expression is steady, neither a smile or a frown— accepting, but holding those words as expectations. Polite as hell... ]

Thank you, Master. Though it is merely a duty, nothing to be commended for.

[ He raises his head, and this time, he does smile. Just a bit. ]

...May I ask you what sorts of things you wished for, as a child?