[ ...what...the hell was that? That reaction to Ciel's self-introduction? Or was he reacting to some other part of it...? Either way, without having to think about it, Howl decides that he did not like it, whatever it was. Especially not when it was paired with creepy comments about meals and eating. His smile tenses and he takes a step backwards, into his own flank, putting himself between Ciel and Sebastian. ]

...right, then. [ With a flick of his wrists, he lightly tossed the returning stone to Sebastian. ] Put this around your neck, and I'll escort you to Achamoth. [ He turns his head slightly to address Ciel without taking his eyes off Sebastian. ] Unless you have any objections?