I... do not make friends easily. In fact, until now I would not have been familiar with a definition of 'friend' either. To have any at all is... quite a major event.

[He looks down now, nodding firmly. It was if they had just made some kind of deal despite never signing anything.]

Thank you. In ancient times you would receive a token with my blessing, but I am afraid we do not have the time nor means for such a ritual here.