#anywhere

The stable door swings open, just enough to let a figure slip in, then closes again before too much wind can blow in. The Baron stomps and knocks snow off his boots. "Rochallor?"

"Baron, Joe says Mister Winter's being extra bossy. I thought we might need blankies"

"Good thinking, Rochallor. You're a fine hostler and friend to our steeds. But you forgot something important."

"Never get into a floating competition with a man named Bob?"

"Close. It's that you are just as important to use as any horse here, and more."

Joker kicks at his stall, but a glance from the Baron makes him hush, "What would I tell that nice mortal couple that is so fond of you, if Joe got lost in the storm?" Aiden offers over a thermos - hot cocoa!

"Here's a milk carton?" He takes tthe thermos "Oh, wow, they might worry..." a smile crosses his features

"Of course they would." He rests a hand on the boy's shoulder. "Family is important. That's why they must worry about each other." The Baron looks worried as well, though all of the horses are cozy and snoozy.

Now the boy does look worried "Sons of Adam and Daughters of Eve are safe though right? Like Tamy and Ick?"

"They will be. They are wiser than us, in some ways. THEY are not out in the storm, but are tucked away cozy in their homes. And lest you think I simply wish to reassure - I had Miss Marigold check in myself. Snug as a dog in a den."

the baron gets a hug for that

He pats the child's back. "It is we that should be concerned. The trods are..." He sighs, then stands suddenly. "Rochallor, excuse me. I have some calls to make - stay with the horses, will you? Or call someone to come with you back to the manor." He slips into the office he has in the stables.

"Roger ready, sir"

And he stays with horses, sipping his thermos

The cocoa is rich and sweet, and there is a small packet of cookies as well! He may just overhear a conversation, but who knows who the Baron is talking to.

He leans closer to the door, one horse ear up

Quiet conversation. "Yes... of course. A boon owed.. and we will gladly trade, of the current litter. Thank you, Mother. I will see you soon." (click)

But as soon as the phone is down, it's raised again, and the sound of paper flipping - an actual rolodex?

"...Fair Imbolc." He hangs up. What was that? Who's 'Derrywind'?!

But now the baron is dialing again...

Ear up, and he whispers o a horse "Gondor calls for Aiden"

Click! Calls made, Rochallor can hear him hanging up and heading back to the door.

"Rochallor? Shall you stay with the horses, or come with me? I could use your assistance, but I know the Horses appreciate a wise head during the storm."

he looks at the horses, then looks at Aiden "Lavender might get thorny if the horses are left in the cold"

"Then I will ask her and her thorns to join you. Stay safe, and guard them well."

He bows

And Aiden bows back, as he would to any Thane! "I am counting on you." And heads out!

When the baron goes, he looks at he horses "Jus' hang loose, blood. She gonna catch ya up on da' rebound on da' med side."

(scene... for now!)