The private training courtyard was blessedly empty. Cassian had chosen one tucked away in the eastern wing of the palace, far from prying eyes and gossiping courtiers. The afternoon sun beat down on the stone, making the practice weapons gleam where they rested against the wall.
Training dummies lined one side. Cassian grabbed two practice staffs, smooth wood, well-worn from use.
"Let's see….We'll start with something basic," he said, tossing me one of the staffs. I caught it, testing the weight. Lighter than I expected. "Footwork and balance. If you can't stand, you can't fight."
"How inspiring."
"I am not here to inspire you Roxanne. I am here to make sure you don't accidentally kill yourself trying to prove a point."
He moved to the center of the courtyard, staff held loosely in one hand.
"Show me your stance."
