Shady

Tadaaki and Zander both returned the nods. It was so tough when, well, basically none of them spoke the same language. Who should he greet? Which language should he pick? ...

Tasia jumped to her feet the instant she saw Tadaaki, and went sprinting into his arms. “Papa!” “Tasia!” He laughed, giving her a tight hug

Tadaaki smiled at the compliment. “Horses are kind of my thing. Love them.”

Tadaaki thought for a moment, trying to picture it in his brain. Then he grinned. “She was beautiful — I love her coloration.”

“Do you remember what stall she’s in?”

“I did.” Tadaaki nodded. “They’re all very fine steeds. Impressive quality.”

“Oh, I didn’t really talk to him, but he seems nice.” Tadaaki said with a smile.

“Um, I wandered around the stables a bit,” Tadaaki murmured. Scoping out hiding spots, should he or Ky need them. “They’re very large and impressive.”

“It’s no trouble,” Tadaaki murmured quickly, but still dipped his head and stepped into stride with them. “But thank you. You’re very kind.”

“I don’t.” Tadaaki shook his head, hesitating for a long moment. “I’m sorry. Should I know that? I’m sorry. I’ll — I can go ask if you’d like?”

Tadaaki smiled, chest puffing out with the closest thing to pride that he was capable of these days. His daughter already had a new friend. And she wanted Ky to ...

“Yep! Or, well, I guess I’ll be joining them — I’m pretty sure they’re already there.”

“Yessir.” Tadaaki inclined his head. “And you?”

“Doing well.” Tadaaki offered a shy smile. “And you?”

They rounded the corner into the hall and bumped into Tadaaki. “Oh, uh, hello. Uh. I mean. Sorry. Sirs.”