[ It's impressive for X to be able to continue narrating even though Ilda's right in front of him, reacting very expressively to the various turn of events. There's definitely some thrill there, anticipation, a gasp every now and then at the revelations, emphatic nodding, wide eyes, and of course, confusion. ]

Wait, wait. So... X stands for something, after all? But because of the villain's magic that influences names... so you're not using the actual name? That's why it's just X?

[ Her eyes shine with curiosity, but she's frowning. ] How does that kind of magic work? If someone guesses your real name, you like, die or something? [ She's heard a bedtime story or two about that before. ]