tread carefully

Hattori waited, his steely gaze lingering on her as he took in her form. He saw her hesitation, the worry shining in her eyes but he said nothing, knowing full well she could work through her concerns alone. He was not the smothering sort of Father and he certainly wasn't going to change now. The Princess kicked off into a dash and her mismatched paws were quick to cover the distance. He quirked a pale brow as she slipped, wondering if she'd manage to recover only to be pleased with her efforts as she righted her stride.

She collided into the front of his form, causing Hattori to spread the gait of his hind limbs to right himself as the impact resounded in his chest. Enough to make him grunt beneath his breath, but ultimately remain upright in position. He'd never say as much and Kiyohime didn't need to know but he sensed he'd have a bruise there come  the following morning.

"Good." He complimented her with a nod, convinced she would only get better from here on out. "Is your head all right?" His bones were stronger than most, the last thing he wanted was for her to get a headache.