I said softly to the wolf protecting her master. I sheathed my sword and still moving softly, I held out my hand, palm upward to the black wolf.
"I only wish to help." I said gently to the wolf.
Cliste came beside me and whined. The female seemed to accept we meant no harm for she received Cliste's nuzzle then sniffed my offered hand. Seeing she was somewhat settled I went to my pack horse and grabbed both a skin of water and a wineskin.
I tore off a piece of my tunic and saturated it with water then knelt beside the big man. He was breathing.
With some effort I turned him face up and began to wipe his grimey face. He groaned and the female wolf came to inspect and help wash his face.
The man's eyes fluttered and he tried to speak.
"Here," I said, "Drink this." Cradling his head I lifted the wineskin to his lips.
The pair of wolves standing side by side lowered their heads, ears back and growled.
Someone was coming!