He tips his head in partial concession to that point. It's true that there are some templars who stand out in history as men or women of note. Compared to the thousands of others who die lyrium addled and in obscurity or fall to the hazards of the duty, they're few and far between.

"You honestly think..." He cuts off. He very likely does honestly think that's why the mages love him. It's the perfect segue into his question, and he wasn't even trying to direct it that way.

"Every time I thank you, or express positive sentiment your way, you..." He gestures with his free hand, a sideways deflecting wave. "Am I offending some custom of which I'm unaware, or is there some reason you don't want to hear it? As much as I enjoy having one over on you sometimes and getting as good as I give, I don't wish offense. Not really. Like just now. You don't really think the only reason the mages love you is because they want to be like you, do you?"