[He shoots a glare towards them, but there is very much a struggle going on within him.

"I must uphold my pride as prince."

He presses a hand over his face, trembling slightly as he goes on with a hiss.]

The real me? How foolish. What would you know... of such things...

[There is a slight wince at Duck's words.]

F-foolish girl. Your love... would be better suited in other ways. My strength is of no concern...

[Even so, her courage was striking at his heart.]