[He jerks at the rebuke and corrects himself. That's not something he expected. The ride feels better and he can tell the bird appreciates it. Huh.]

We can not know and still play this smart. [Smart means no need for healing and he's all for that.]

...how much do you know about riding? While we have the time I'd like to know how to do it better. [In case they need to run like their tails are on fire. He doesn't want to hurt the bird or slow her down.]