Lord Marduk genuinely admired Felix after realizing the hell he went through in his journey to reach this height.
While death was considered the ending of everyone's stories, Felix rose higher than it and made the ruler of the underground his partner in crime.
How could he not respect him?
"I appreciate the kind words, but I haven't planned for my journey to be like that." Felix shook his head, "The stream of fate is just pushing me around, and I still have yet to gain full control of my destiny."
In the eyes of others, Felix's life would be seen as an adventurous journey with many ups and downs. But, if it was up to Felix, he would have rather settled down with Asna somewhere peaceful and cozy, living their lives in harmony. Maybe, just maybe, give birth to some rascals to light up their life.
Alas, it was impossible to do this without freeing her first. Felix refused to live his life with Asna in an illusionary world with illusionary children.