Shadow Mountain you are coming down with me, hand in unlovable hand

If anything, he knows well enough to not have concrete expectations. He's covered so many miles, seen so many varieties of folk, and given the right circumstance, just there's no telling what this may have in store for him. He intends to stay flexible and feel it out, as always. Luck has been on his side lately, though, and having this in the back of his mind encourages him. His company has been few and far between, but all quality in his eyes. His outlook is bright enough while his ears swing forward, questioning in silence as the space between them eased away more. While not with the greatest of confidence in it yet, he takes that as a good sign.

Inari watches more, carefully mindful of striking his balance between wariness and curiosity. At once, he felt a bit contradicted, but the bark issued by the shadow of a stranger perks him up straighter than before. He focuses anew with a tilt to his head, and prompted accordingly, he wiggles his tail against his knees. His posture suggested that he's still questioning this, and next he makes his move closer. Light steps, almost up to a lofty trot, he arcs towards him -- who is he?

But, he is still reasonably hesitant in the face of so much unknown, so doesn't aim to move in overly close, but instead portray that he is open to this, whatever it is. He doesn't quite know what to say.