"Easy," Brandon murmured as he gentled rested his right hand on his nervous gelding's neck.<br/><br/>Fear.<br/><br/>Animals could smell it. To predators the scent was an invitation to another victim. To the prey it was a brightly painted post screaming 'warning'. An excuse to run, to hide, to leave the stench of fear to those that made it.<br/><br/>Brandon used to be the prey until his father found him huddled in the dark. He knew the instinct well, and begrudged no one their fear. Certainly not the inhabitants of this dead end town.<br/><br/>He guided the gelding down the main thoroughfare, making a point to nod friendlily at each house he passed. He didn't know why the hidden inhabitants of the houses were afraid, but there was no need for them to unnecessarily add to it.<br/><br/>Coming upon the group of horses tethered outside the saloon, he slide smoothly out the saddle, and tied the gelding alongside them. Brandon ruffled its head once or twice before he collected his important belongings, and headed inside.<br/><br/>"Evening."  He said as he stepped through the saloon doors, his eyes taking in the entire room. "I don't suppose any of you lot would be able to tell me why everyone here is so damn scared?"