Valkyrie’s blood drained from her face as she spotted King Duncan behind her. Her body went rigid, her throat suddenly dry.
With one glance from the King, the guards immediately bowed and released Arianna, keeping their gaze low.
“Darling...” Valkyrie exclaimed softly, attempting to step closer, but Duncan’s glare froze her in place.
Dread pooled in her stomach. If she hadn’t gone to the restroom before coming here, she might have peed herself.
Still, she tried to explain. “Your Grace, this slave dared to—”
“Did I ask for your explanation?” Duncan’s sharp tone cut her off, making her swallow hard.
“N-no... no, Your Grace...” she stammered, her face flushing with humiliation as her mouth snapped shut.
Duncan’s gaze shifted to Arianna, who stood silently with her head lowered.
“Did I
