Makeshift camps were set up behind its stone walls, where the people hoped to find safety. Each day Ryshel walked the grounds, helping in any way she could. She fed livestock, brushed horses, and assisted in the castle kitchens. Her children helped as well, forgetting their stations as nobles, and placing themselves among the commoners. They learned some basic cooking and particularly enjoyed kneading bread dough. Ryshel took pride in their willingness to help. Her children would grow into fine citizens who would treat those beneath them with dignity and respect. One evening, after a large group of displaced Ra’jhouans had arrived, Ryshel made a request of her husband. “I would like to take over castle management duties,” she declared. “With the councilmen busy with the war, someone needs to see that the castle is being run efficiently. You are far too busy coordinating the supply lines and dispatching more troops to handle this new wave of citizens.” Efren was pleased that his wife would offer to share in the work of running a kingdom.
