It isn't as though he doesn't know Marian can handle herself. He'd never willingly try a test of skill with her; he might be taller, stronger, but her abilities demand respect.

In a fight, she can deal as well as anyone who might come after her, but the thought of her being caught, clear proof of her involvement with Robin's men, turns his blood to ice.

But there's nothing for it: this is her world, her life, and he is absolutely dependent on her to return home. His hands loosen but do not lift from her shoulders, and he meets her eyes with his own rueful.

"All right. We'll make for the stables, find Kiseki." He pauses, and when he goes on, his voice is not unkind.

"Is there anything at all we can do for your father?"