[Picks up without missing a beat, grinning ruefully and apologetic at once, even if he was trying to mask that still-present paranoia]

Yeah I just-- you showed up so quickly and it's a friend of mine from back home. Here unexpectedly, what are the odds?

[Reality had he hadn't heard a word from Jack, just a few others who he hadn't met before. But Jack wouldn't blame him for using him as an excuse to potentially save his life, right?

But wow, obedient horse, too. Bracing himself, he held a hand out for a-- well, hand, nodding as he was hoisted up and on with little struggle. The horse-- Vakri, very well-mannered.]

Thanks, and sorry for bringing you out here. You must have a real good sense of direction! I won't trouble you long.