[ Julie actually is, deep down, sort of a doter. She generally uses it in a more manipulative way, at least toward men, but the truth is that she does like to do all those little affectionate motions for people she loves -- fussing over comfort and appearance, taking care of them. She just rarely loves anyone enough to do it out of genuine tenderness, rather than because it works to her advantage.

So this is sort of a comfort for her as well. It makes her feel useful, vital. Especially in a situation like this, where she is only coming in at the tail end. ]

Back to his uppity self. [ The snort she lets out is fond. While well-trained and mostly agreeable, Baron has a definite headstrong streak. Perhaps unsurprising, given who owns him. ] Huffed and puffed at me when I gave him a carrot 'stead of a second apple. Such a diva.

[ The heels of her palms press into his back. ] You did find your sword, right?