[That leaves him mildly surprised, and it might show in the just-too-long pause that follows. It's not that he's unaccustomed to praise — on the contrary, he's heard more of it than otherwise.

But it's always been for his skills, his ascension to Master Assassin at such a young age, never for his character. And Claude and Hilda know nothing of his vocation.]

They're both capable of impressive things themselves.

[Capability probably aren't what she meant, and he knows it, but he can feel himself fumbling for any other kind of response.]

I would have been surprised to learn Claude was taken, but it seems those responsible were able to subdue many who know how to defend themselves.