Sohn felt a huge sense of relief as the dark figure was revealed to be Claribel.  But he wasn't about to let his guard down until they were both well clear of the mansion. Old guy?  What old guy? That was worrying.  

He shook his head. 

"Fortuna, down," Sohn ordered and immediately the dog's demeanor changed from growling to more submissive as she laid down, though was still very alert to their surroundings.

"Your father sent me and Fortuna here to come find you. Ready to go home?" He asked, transferring his staff to one hand and extending the other toward her, fighting the voice in his head that was telling him to just grab her and make a run for it.  But, like a lamb, if he spooked her, she might run and hide and then he'd be much longer trying to get her back.