[ the question playing at his lips is "how often do those who appear here leave?"; he repeats it in his head, once, twice, and...

...well. decides against it, actually. it seems cruel to ask of someone he's just met— as if he can't wait to be rid of this place and the kindness he's already seen here. ]

...On second thought, it's no pressing matter. Think nothing of it.

[ spoilers: he's a terrible liar??? but the saving grace is that he doesn't look troubled. if anything, he relaxes the tension in his shoulders. settles. ]

I apologize for my boorishness, princess. If you'd do me the honor of directing me towards the residential areas, I'd follow.