When they stopped to set up camp, Dexter led Gytha a few feet away, then spoke quietly with her. The soldiers began to unroll their bedrolls and prepare a meal. One female soldier offered her bedroll for Reid’s use, then unpacked it for her.

Dexter approached with Gytha. “She is going to take you far enough away so no one can see you. Then, she’ll unwrap your bindings to check your rib and back.” He left no room for argument.

Reid followed Gytha into the cover of the trees. “When you’re done helping me, I want you to have someone look at Prince Dexter’s shoulder to make sure infection hasn’t set in.”

“Yes, Lady Reid.”

Reid had never heard the woman agree so readily. Or take an order from Reid for that matter.

Once they’d gone far enough, Reid removed her shirt and wrap.

Gytha examined her. “It looks like two cracked ribs. How did this happen?”

“An assassin punched me, then tossed me on the ground.”

“Commander Dexter informed me that you saved his life by throwing your body in front of an arrow.”

Clearly, the woman was fishing for information. Reid wanted to make sure she conveyed her loyalty. “Yes. I couldn’t let anything happen to him. He is too valuable to Axian.”

“Let me see your back,” Gytha said, her voice soft and without its usual harshness. “It’s swollen, but it looks fine.” She rewrapped the fabric tightly around Reid. “I know this is uncomfortable, but it will help.”

When they returned to camp, Reid felt off-kilter over this nicer version of Gytha.

Late the following night, they reached the palace. All Reid wanted was a hot bath and a soft bed. A soldier had ridden ahead to let Prince Henrick know Prince Dexter and Lady Reid were about to arrive and both needed medical attention. When Dexter steered his horse into the stables, a dozen people Reid didn’t recognize waited for them.

Dexter ignored them as he dismounted. Reaching up, he placed his firm hands on Reid’s waist, lifting her off the horse and setting her on solid ground. “Besides being seen by a healer, you don’t have to talk to anyone tonight,” he murmured. “They can all wait until tomorrow.” He took her hand, leading her toward the exit.

Nara, Henrick, and Colbert entered the stables. When Nara threw her arms around her son for a hug, Reid wiggled her hand free.

“I want Lady Reid seen by a healer,” Dexter said. “She has at least one broken or cracked rib.”

Nara released Dexter, then scanned Reid from head to toe. “Then I won’t hug you. Come, I’ll help you to your room and see you’re taken care of.” Nara hooked her arm with Reid’s, leading her out of the stables and into the main portion of the palace.