[ In spite of his thoughts... that encouragement makes him smile. Then again, encouragement from Blade has always made him smile. His blunt words have a way of emphasizing the underlying gentleness of his friendship, after all. ]

You are correct. They will do their utmost to support me.

[ Which is why it hurts, somewhat. They'll do anything they can to ensure his happiness and support him... but that comes at the cost of seeing them pass before him too.

But that other comment makes his smile soften. ]

There is that individual, yes. 'Tis good to know I will not be on my own.

[ He's being coy, but the relief he feels at knowing that he'll have someone to stay by his side during the long path that's now appeared before him is immense. ]