The innocent look in the boy's eyes as he asks his question burns deep with irony deep inside the elder vampire and he smiles faintly. [i]'It's strange, but to the villagers he is indeed a monster, having killed several people without thought or remorse. However in all this, he is truly innocent of any wrong doing'[/i] Mentally shrugging he adds, [i]Well, so are we all if we only kill to feed. It's our nature, like the wolf or the hawk'[/i] He nods gently, slipping back around do he can grip the boy at the waist. “Yes little one, we will get out of the open soon. The inn is not far.” He goes over the directions to the inn in his head, mapping out the turns. [i]'It should only take a couple minutes, if that'[/i]

Keeping a grip on the boy he walks past the first couple houses, focusing on the road in front of him. After a little while he notices the flexing and tensing the youngster’s muscles are doing beneath his pale skin. Glancing at him through the onslaught of raindrops he squeezes his hip reassuringly. “Just a little further little one.” He murmurs, his eyes traveling over to a group of men trying to get a stubborn cow into a stable. [i]'Some beasts are just so stupid, it is unfathomable'[/i] Remembering for a moment Horace Dorian makes a split second decision as the Jameston Inn comes into view. Instead of heading for the welcoming twinkle of firelight dancing against the window pains, the elder turns and moves towards the stables attached to the dull brick building.

As they step through the open doorway, left open by a foolish customer most likely, Dorian scans the area before letting the boy go. [i]'No one here, it is safe to let him roam a bit'[/i] Tousling his blond head he murmurs, “Only stopping here for a moment little one. I wish to check on my horse.” His hand slides down so he can grip the young one's chin. Tugging gently so he can look into the dark blue eyes under the blond mop he adds seriously, “I know you are most likely feeling full, but I will warn you anyways: Do not snack on the horses. Also, feel free to look around while I check on Horace, but is someone walks in, do not panic. Simply move to my side. Everything will be fine, I promise.” Letting go of the boy's chin he taps him gently on the nose before turning to his stallion in the far stall. Walking over he watches as the horse's head comes up, nickering softly at the sight of his master.

Coming up to his stall Dorian reaches out, taking the stallion's muzzle in hand. Stroking it softly he murmurs quietly. Nothing specific, just faint nonsense words. His senses remain, however, trained on the young vampire in the stable with him. Overhead the storm beats on the roof. The stable is dry though, much to Dorian's satisfaction. [i]'Even with their hopeless guests, at least the owners have kept up with basic stable maintenance. It is good to see humans taking such interest in caring for horses that are not their own'[/i] Horace shakes his mane, letting out a faint whinny as if to agree with the vampire's silent musing.