[ unbeknownst to the man, achilles discovers an odd semblance of irony in that statement. the juxtaposition of the idea that this stranger had captured his attention upon first gaze, first parry, first counter, first deflection, as well as on first contact— yet was entirely blind to the prospect. there were few who could match his vigor or drive, and so he almost finds it a bit regretful somehow. however, being unable to truly pinpoint which part of tartaglia's words creates this internal conflict within him, he unfortunately doesn't offer the words he aspires to. nor does he really bring attention to his thoughts.

if his teacher were in his shoes, he may have been able to detect the darkness and depth of tartaglia's considerations, and yet... achilles is mostly blind. only able to work on an inkling of intuition. hence, he merely responds at face value. (maybe he argues this is why he misses out on the most crucial moments?) ]

Childe, huh? [ he likes it. an alias picked up from travels... also kind of tickled him, and so he sticks to it. ] I like it. It's a good name. [ with this, he reaches out as if to give him a firm pat on the shoulder. which, only seems to lose strength when he's caught a bit off-guard at his recognition.

to be honest, while he hasn't revealed his true name to anyone aside from uta, it still stands that she didn't recognize him and considering everyone seemed to come from different worlds... he was beginning to forget what it felt like to have this instant awareness and perception of his identity. except, this was typically the norm in theory? the idea gets an almost wry smile. ] The one and only! So you've heard of me? I hope nothing bad.

[ he's joking, but he does seem to stand a bit taller, albeit with a small wince from the bruises. thanks childekun. ]