The Captain silently reminded herself of her military baring, and took a deep breath. Out of the corner of her eye she spotted movement, one of her fellow officers was checking up with his men after the event.

He was a domineering earth demon, built like the mountains that surrounded the kingdom. Captain Tzo, for that was his name, was also a personal friend. Struck by inspiration she decided to use him to bail her out of this mess.

"Yes your majesty, I do have some free time" she said with forced patience "and my husband over there likes to spend our off days together so I'm afraid I have obligations"

She made a mental note to brief Tzo on her lie as soon as she could. Although lieing was frowned upon, and against regulations for a guard, she knew he'd back her up. And importantly she had earned a little favor from Emperor Ling, which would hopefully would allow her to slide under the radar.