The training grounds were empty when they arrived, cleared by Duncan's order. Only Marcus stood waiting, his expression grave as he took in the King's presence.

"Your Majesty," Marcus said with a bow. "I wasn't expecting—"

"Change of plans," Duncan interrupted, moving to the center of the grounds. "I'll be overseeing Arianna's training personally from now on. You'll assist."

Marcus's eyebrows rose slightly, but he was too well-trained to question his king. "Of course. What do you need from me?"

"For now? Watch. Learn her patterns, her weaknesses." Duncan turned to Arianna, and the look in his eyes made her breath catch. This wasn't the tired king from this morning,...