"Um..." Tzirret did not have an immediate answer. The best he could come up with on the spot was that it was an embarrassing and awkward situation at the time. He guessed he also didn't want Ma'tanza thinking that he was delving into her personal affairs, but he didn't get to answer before Meesei came forward.

Tzirret was grateful for the time to think. He replied to Meesei with an "okay," and stood up to get out of the boat, giving Ma'tanza one last glance. It was hard to read what was on his mind from it.

While Uthri dragged the boat ashore, Gallus joined Meesei and Tzirret with the family. The family themselves returned Meesei's look, except for F'sresa. She had climbed onto Pudaga's back so she could continue resting.

[i]"Um, hello,"[/i] Tzirret began in Ta'agra, [i]"This one is named Tzirret. Um..."[/i] Tzirret glanced between Pudaga and Meesei, [i]"Meesei wants to talk briefly."[/i]

[i]"Yes, what does Meesei need?"[/i] Pudaga responded in a friendly tone.