The girl's fearful stuttering was not lost on the creature; though he'd become unaccustomed to the finer points of human body language, Mary's discomfort was not subtle. Still, on the misguided premise that it was she who chose the seat, he could only think she was trying, valiantly, to face her fears- Perhaps even for his sake?<br/><br/>"That is a long time. You must be very brave to help keep the temple safe. And to talk to me." He lowered his head to rest atop his paw already on the table, bringing him closer to Mary's eye-level. He noticed now the face of the blind monk, and familiarity struck him. "Do you take care of Brother Zato?"<br/><br/>His attention was focused enough on Mary that Al, at least, had momentarily been spared its clumsy attempts at conversation.