He didn't realize he was ducking himself into said ruff and tilting his head so the brim of his hat hid his face as he tried not to let his embarrassment and pleased feelings show too much.

"I-i wasn't asked...I-i wanted t-to say hello when i-it seemed you were heading t-this way."

He barely looks up after admitting that so his next statement is a bit muffled as it's spoken into his neck ruff.

"I-i'm a genin now a-and Juukyuu isn't as hard to use now Houou-sama."