— Seriously? That's the best pick up line you could think of?
Cecilia doesn't even bother to look up from the table as she continues to peruse the snacks available, casually tucking her hair behind her ear. She can hear a sputter, and the embarrassed tone of Ardtyh behind her.
— No no, that's now what I meant. I wouldn't think of that-! Not to say you aren't pretty enough to flirt with, but I just meant-
She does turn then, an unamused eyebrow raised. Actually, now that she looks at the stranger over, there is something familiar she can't quite put her finger on. But she can guess.
— Let me be clear. I have no interest in pretty boys without substance from Royal Sword. And if you try to give me flowers I swear...
—Royal sword?
Ardyth cocks his head to the side in confusion. Cecilia waits for him to spout some nonsense of destiny, of her beauty, of romance, and so on. And Ardtyh waits for Cecilia to explain. It's an awkward silence, and it's then that the princess realises.
— You don't even know what Royal Sword is, do you? RSA?
All she gets is a shake of the head for an answer. Incredulous doesn't begin to describe her state, mixed with suspicion. There is no way anyone in the world doesn't know... Unless....
— You aren't from this world.
— What was that you said of pick up lines?
— Oh shush, you know what I mean, don't you?
The answer is evident. The way Ardtyh has started to sweat all but confirms it, and brings a smirk to Cecilia's face. Finally he lifts his hands in surrender.
— You got me. It's supposed to be a secret though, the headmaster will hrrrk me if she finds out.
The sound is accompanied by dragging his hand through his neck. There's an eyeroll from the princess at the dramatism, but she'll let it slide.
— That answers which school you are in, then. No wonder you haven't learned of Royal Sword, I'm told that name is practically taboo here.
— Oh! So it's that school. I finally know what words to avoid. That's a big help, thanks~ if you ever need help with anything I'll repay you!
The airheaded smile on Ardyths face does soften Cecilia's heart a little. That sense of familiarity rises again. Although something else nags at her. Maybe it's just the moon's light but it's like something is missing in his eyes. She ought to give it some thought later. For now she has other ideas in mind.
— I know someone else who is not from this world. Perhaps you come from the same place.
— No way! That's great! Not for them, right, but for me. That sounds wrong, let me-
— I'd like to know more of where you come from. And I will introduce you two. But...
Instantly Cecilia's hand is on his arm, the grip tight enough to leave a mark. There's something dark swirling in the princess eyes as she next speaks.
— ... Don't get any funny ideas with her. If you so much as make her uncomfortable, you'll regret it.
A shiver goes down Ardyth's spine. The feeling similar of that of a rabbit eyed by a snaken afraid of the next step to take. And still, being as he is, he suppresses it and gives a smile instead.
