Marriette followed Marshal's stiff back down the hall toward the Council Chambers. The only words he'd spoken to her after the attack on the street were a request to retire. That was a week ago.

"Marshal." Marriette stopped and glared at him. "I will have words with you."

"Your Majesty." He stopped, but did not turn to face her.

"I must know what is bothering you." She made her words hard to break through the shell. 

"I do my duty," he said. If it had been any one ...