[ being from a world where war is the province of men as a rule, she is struck with both admiration and awe. the only woman she has ever heard of wilding a sword was jeanne d'arc and they called her mad. this is a unique experience.

there is no shortness of envy in her for the sort of freedom being able to defend oneself must bring. ]

Captain of the Guard! [ there is a pleasant-sounding surprise in her voice as she gawks at her. ] You must be quite skilled indeed, then.

[ lizzie nods at once, because the dangers of this place are beginning to be impressed upon her already. ]

For those of us like myself who cannot fight, I am sure I can say we all appreciate it.

[ but.. ]

I am, yes. War is coming to my land, and I would like nothing better than to cease being a pawn and the eventual spoils. I would see these poor souls trapped here returned whence they came so that they might finish whatever business they were conducting.

[ has she ever become chatty! she flushes in embarrassment. ]

I am sorry. I simply.. would like to be free. In this place, and at home.