<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/d/d1/Dohrmann.jpg)</div>Dohrmann's expression hardened as Kate spoke up, and he turned to face her. "A captain who has allowed their ship to run aground has no place lecturing anyone else on duty. I am quite aware of what duty requires of me, and had I been aware of this issue prior to now, I would have already taken steps."<br/><br/>He turned his attention back to Malcyn and continued. "I would be happy to accept your assistance in dealing with this matter, and I will offer what aid I can. I am unaware of any strangely large hounds, either in general or specific terms. Certainly none that could quickly pull down a man. A pack, certainly, or someone old or feeble, or perhaps caught unawares. Even so, there are easier prey. Discounting the creatures of the forest, there are some domestic breeds ... sheep, goats, even some cattle ... any of which would be easier to take."<br/><br/>He shook his head, frowning. "It is not that I do not believe you, but it seems an odd thing for an animal to be doing." He paused, stroking his chin in contemplation. "Unless perhaps it is sick and finds it too difficult to run down faster prey. I suppose that might account for an attack on a person."<br/><br/>* * * *<br/><br/><div class="floatleft">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/6/6b/Anna-dohrmann.jpg)</div>Outside the door, Marsi's only company was a solid looking armsman standing close enough that they would be there if the lord of the manor required them. A noise from down the corridor drew her attention, but rather than an approaching housemaid or other servant, it was a young woman of an age perhaps close to herself, in well made but comfortable looking clothing, suitable for riding. She looked Marsi over as she came down the hallway, stopping a step or two short of her. "And who might you be?" she asked, "Someone here to speak with my uncle?"