Captain Robert Thorne, head of the royal guard and Elizabeth's personal combat instructor for the past five years, arrived precisely at the agreed time. His weathered face betrayed no surprise at finding his princess already present, her slim form moving through warm-up exercises with fluid grace.
"Your Highness," he greeted her with a respectful nod. "I understand we have an audience this morning."
Elizabeth completed her sequence before answering, each movement controlled and deliberate. "Yes. The Talley twins will be observing. Perhaps participating, if they feel inclined."
Thorne's scarred eyebrow rose slightly. "And how much are we showing these observers?"
A ghost of a smile touched Elizabeth's lips. "Enough to educate but not enough to endanger."
Thorne nodded, understanding pe
