Were it not from the lips of the man who spent much of his fortune to build a place of employment for displaced refugees, I would find it harder still to believe.

[She smiles despite herself. Of course he would know of the selfsame steadfast soul she'd come to believe in during their own adventures. ...Just how many did they get into, anyway?]

Pray forgive my previous misgivings. T'would seem I yet still lack my brother's talent for diplomacy. [She bows apologetically.] Your kind words are a comfort where few friends can be counted upon. Would be remiss of me to reject your offer of friendship, should you still be willing to give it.