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Kellan kneeled down next to Grimm, who sat rather placidly upon his hind legs. "If this dog bites, I have yet to see it. He growled at the man that came in earlier, which was the worst I've seen him do yet," Kellan wondered if her words had become lost upon the ears of little Sallie. Smiling, the dark woman pat Grimm upon his black, shaggy head. "He will not bite you, Miss Sallie!"
Sallie would not loosen her tight grip on her father's leg, bringing Kellan's smile downward into a slight frown. Kellan looked up at Rochadan, who shrugged, unsure of what to say in addition. An idea sprung into Kellan's head as she tucked a lock of curly hair behind her ear. Smiling once more, the lady held out her arm, her hand open for Sallie to take. "Would you like a hand to hold? He will not bite you, and especially not if I am here with you. Your father will protect us..."
Sallie let go of her father's leg, no matter how reluctant, and took Kellan's hand. Standing next to the crouched woman, Sallie was only inches away from the large, dark dog. Cupping Sallie's hand in her own, Kellan guided the girl's tiny fingers over Grimm's fur. Kellan let go, and Sallie stroked Grimm all by herself. Grimm turned his head, startling Sallie, but he only turned to lick her hand. "Ewww!" Sallie giggled, and Kellan hoped her fears had subsided.
Rochadan watched, and Kellan stood as Sallie began to play with Grimm. Looking over at Rochadan, smiled and gestured to the little girl. "Does her mother work in the Inn as well?" Kellan asked, a laugh upon her voice as she watched Grimm and Sallie.
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