[The praise just keeps coming, and finally he can't help but to duck his head bashfully, face hot.] You are flattering me outrageously. [He isn't actually objecting, though. It feels nice.

The blush does not subside as Lighter's tone darkens, but he laughs at the acquiescence.]

A cruel man would have far worse opinions of what makes a good leader; I've met enough of them to know. Whatever your past holds, it's clear that you're a kind man, and that's worth a great deal in any world.

[See how you like it.]