The tension seemed to heighten as Conaan fixed his bow, then slowly pulled an arrow from behind him. Eleanor gave a small chuckle as she settled even further onto their unlikely embrace, her eyes settling on the large glass behind them.

It reflected off the servants whom she had her back to, and the sun. She gave a small sigh as Conaan moved a bit.

"Ready," he whispered, and she turned, her eyes meeting his.

"Ready."

They could hear in the distance as the servant ran around, circling the sandy arena in dizzying consistency, the apple strapped tightly to his head.

Conaan moved a little, his eyes taking in all...