He gets another raised eyebrow as she peers around at the efficient organization of the room, smile still tugging at her mouth. But she doesn't comment on it. She simply nods, once, and moves to get her gear.

Doc wasn't kidding; Nova is an absolute gentleman when it comes to saddling him up. In short order, she has him brushed, saddled, and reined, talking to the animal gently the entire time, getting to know his personality and body language.

"You about ready, Scurlock?" she calls, giving each belt and clasp one more thorough once over before she mounts.