That is kind, considering my 'ideals' weren't always so altruistic.

[That is in the past now; he is a changed man who believes in the truth of those ideals, already had by the time he had chanced to meet Alphen and the others, but he will not allow himself to forget where he comes from. To do so would be foolish— one must learn from their mistakes to move forward.

He smiles again, reserved by warm.]

Thank you, all the same. I will continue to do my utmost. You seem to be in better spirits now than when you arrived— I'm grateful for that.