Oh, fuck.
Claudia watched her cousin approach them, and did not wish for them to suffer because she chose to be foolishly generous. She thought of a diplomatic way to answer the question when she saw Julia, her former governess approach her as well and could not hide the distinct look of 'oh, fuck' from her facial expressions. She may have possibly been able to fool Juliana. Julia, however? Perhaps not at all.
Fortunately, Julia seemed to be more distracted by little Quintus than with her for the moment and it gave her some time. She didn't have a lot of time to wonder what little Quintus thought of the scene.
"It looks far worse than it is, cousin," She answered, gave Decimus a concerned look as the servants began to led him away to receive medical care. One of the things Claudia liked about Aia was her honesty. Except right at this moment, she gazed at the redhead a strained smile to encourage her to let her deal with her cousin and explain what had occurred. However, the words had already been spoken. What was the more polite way to refer to bandits along the road? "Decimus is injured, and they all risked their lives to protect me." She added, and realised the extent of how badly it could have potentially gone for them. They could all be dead by now.
"It was my fault, cousin. I stopped to help a wounded bandit and rode ahead away from them. It was foolish. There were survivors but Decimus, Aia and Cynane killed the leader of the band." She added. Unsure whether or not she would assist any bystanders along the road anymore. Claudia hoped she would still be able to go riding.
Claudia looked over at the blood soaked Cynane and hoped she would follow them inside the villa. No doubt headed towards the baths.
@Chevi @Sains @Atrice @Jenn