Sweat beaded on the heads of several and one or two swayed in the heat. They snapped to attention the instant that Bai and herself came onto the practice field.“Shall I introduce you, Madam?” The Captain of the Guard hovered nearby.“Not necessary. I simply need to ask them a few questions, is that acceptable?”“Certainly, Madam.”With Baileez and the Captain trailing in her wake, she was a little nervous, but she got in touch with her talent anyway. “I have a few questions to ask of you and I will need you to honestly answer me.”She took a deep breath and raised her voice. “How many of you really want to be here today?” All raised their hands, but two in the second row had been coerced by family obligations.“How many of you think it is beneath you to guard the queen?” That was one of the first and two new dissidents.“And finally, how many of you are capable of dealing with a woman who is breeding? The next few months are going to be a little rough for everyone.”
