Deflecting compliments was a habit of this, but no one had ever said anything about his appearance (at least, in this fashion). They'd usually comment on his intellect and strategic thinking, and increasingly on how tired he seemed to be - but those comments had a clear appropriate response: polite redirection and striving to keep up his efforts.
But this... was... unexpected. He didn't usually pay too much attention to his appearance, unless there was an upcoming meeting of importance. And that was only to ensure he looked perfectly presentable - a quick assessment determined that he had meticulous habits expected of his social class. (Or at least he hoped.) Then, how was he supposed to respond? He couldn't do it the usual way, since cleaning wasn't a talent...
The strategist continued walking for a good fifteen seconds before he managed to come up with something.
"Thank you...?"
This was the most acceptable reply he could think of at the moment.
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Deflecting compliments was a habit of this, but no one had ever said anything about his appearance (at least, in this fashion). They'd usually comment on his intellect and strategic thinking, and increasingly on how tired he seemed to be - but those comments had a clear appropriate response: polite redirection and striving to keep up his efforts.
But this... was... unexpected. He didn't usually pay too much attention to his appearance, unless there was an upcoming meeting of importance. And that was only to ensure he looked perfectly presentable - a quick assessment determined that he had meticulous habits expected of his social class. (Or at least he hoped.) Then, how was he supposed to respond? He couldn't do it the usual way, since cleaning wasn't a talent...
The strategist continued walking for a good fifteen seconds before he managed to come up with something.
"Thank you...?"
This was the most acceptable reply he could think of at the moment.