237: His name

It had been a week since Arianna returned to Duncan’s side.

He slept often, the jagged black cracks on his body had started to fade, and each day he remained awake for a little longer than before.

Sometimes he stared at her like he was seeing her for the first time. She would draw him close, feed him gently. Every day, Evelora’s servant came to help tend to the king, and Duncan’s recovery was faster than expected.

Once, when Duncan was asleep, the Seer visited. She warned Arianna to prepare—to be ready when he craved. Arianna understood what that meant.

It would be like the first time they met. Once the Lycan within him fully healed, it would need to be fed.

___

Duncan stirred awake, his sight clearing as he looked around. He frowned upon finding the space next to him empty.

Panic flared in his chest. He pushed himself up swiftly, his head banging from the sudden movement—but his worry dulled the pain.

Before he could lose control, he caught her scent and heard her voice.

“I’m here.”