Like comrades.

[The words leave his lips effortlessly, as if it's the most natural thing in the world, and somehow putting it like that feels right. Like home.

Then he glances down at the feeding ducklings by her feet, and laughs a bit sheepishly.]

I should probably do something about them. Being out here in the corridor isn't safe for them. [A small bow.] Thank you for talking to me.