Maria breathed a sigh of relief, then stumbled down the hollow herself and remounted her horse with the help of Garth. "Have someone run ahead and dig up some dry clothing for him. The poor thing doesn't need to eat while he's sopping wet." She thought for a moment as they started toward the castle once more. "Perhaps offer him towels to dry with, in case he won't change."<br/><br/>Garth nodded and sent someone running up ahead. As they came to the drawbridge, Garth's children spotted him and ran over. Garth swept them both up in his big arms and nuzzled them both, making them shriek and giggle. Then, he whispered in their ears and set them down. They both ran back across the drawbridge and into the courtyard, disappearing around a corner. Maria smiled widely at the exchange. Garth was an excellent father, and had done well raising his children over the past year on his own after the death of his wife. She had died of the same sickness the Duke had contracted, a strong fever that had swept the countryside, leaving many dead.<br/><br/>Entering the outer walls into the courtyard, the smells from the kitchen were heady. There had been a good hunt of quail, and Maria was certain the kitchen staff would outdo themselves like they usually do. Paula was a magnificent cook; everything that came out of her kitchen was delicious.<br/><br/>Maria dismounted once more as a servant came out with towels and clothing for Aolo. She'd have to change for dinner. Turning back to Aolo, she gave him a bright smile before going into the main fortress.<br/><br/>Garth watched her go before grimacing and turning to the barbarian she had decided to bring into the castle. Holding his hands up, palms forward, he moved closer to Aolo. "Uh... clothes. Dry. Then, eat." He beckoned the servant forward, taking a towel and mimicking drying off, then used the same motion the Duchess had for eating. Then he beckoned the man forward, attempting to get him inside to a room, rather than possibly having him strip in front of everyone.