[That had all went swimmingly until the man's comment. While it was a compliment, it wasn't appreciated by everyone. James attempted to get out of Oliver's grasp and the boy was not about to try to hold him in. The bird would return to his place on Oliver's shoulder with ruffled wings. It was enough to get the boy to sigh. At least there hadn't been some sort of negative action taken against the stranger, himself.]

I don't think James likes being called pretty. But he is nice, really, he is!

[One would have thought that would have been enough ego stroking for James but apparently not. Oliver was not about to bother the bird. He'd let him wallow in whatever he was feeling. James would surely get over it. It wasn't like the man only said he was pretty. They both had agreed on the 'amazing' aspect.]It certainly wasn't the worst of their problems right now but it wasn't setting much of an impression. Time to bring the boy's mind back to the conversation.]

It's nice to meet you, Mr. Jim! My name is Oliver!

[Maybe they were friends, now. The man seemed rather decent and wasn't saying anything daft. But there was no goal to stay here long. That's right, he had to get back home, somehow. While he was currently enjoying himself that wasn't going to get him out of this place any faster. Jim had to be in the same situation too, right? But Oliver had to make sure, first.]

Uh, if you don't mind me asking...Where are you from?