"We prefer dracolisks in my country," Dorian jokes. "And war elephants. Horses are so Orlesian." He takes his own cup of coffee, pleased to see the requisite amount of cream lightening it, and sips. It's still a little too hot for serious drinking.

Dorian pats the couch cushions beside himself.

"I don't know. Am I always so demanding? Sit down. Take your proverbial coat off. You make me nervous just standing there, make yourself at home, Marius."