[ Ah. Too obvious, clearly... He inwardly scolds himself for showing his reaction so openly, but truly, that had caught him be more than a little surprise. Seeing Howl take a more defensive position gets him to sigh lightly, but he catches the stone easily and follows the instructions before at least offering an explanation. ]

Do pardon me. Your name simply caught me by surprise, Miss Ciel, as it is uncommon. My... [ He pauses as if half-considering what to say, but it's really more catching himself in not needing to tell the half truth of what his master's name was ] —former master had the same name. And hair color, as a matter of fact...

[ He shakes his head lightly, though it does come with another sigh. Really, what a bother. ]

But, no, we needn't linger further, especially if there is work to be done. Thank you yet again for your information and assistance.