Ladon huffs out a quiet breath through his nose, something halfway between a chuckle and a concession. He scrubs a thumb over his jaw, eyes flicking briefly to the sand before settling back on Shion.

"Ain't either, kid," he says. He's never been much for pity, and sympathy always felt like it came with strings. This is simpler than that. "S'just recognition. I see you. That's all."

He watches Shion push himself upright, steadier now, and that knot between Ladon's shoulders loosens just a touch. Good. That was the goal. He nods once at the thanks, dismissive in the way of someone who doesn't want credit for doing what feels obvious. "Anytime," he says. "An' if you feel that wobble creepin' back in, say somethin'. Don't gotta tough it out just 'cause you can, yeah?"