ELENA INFORMED US OF THE change of plans when we arrived at the training site the next day.

'It'll give you a chance to meet more of the castle inhabitants,' Elena said. 'You only really get to see them at the table. I have arranged for Ada to meet you at your room before dinner. She will create something suitable for you each to wear.'

'She can create something that quickly?' I asked, astonished.

'Oh, she is exceptionally gifted,' Elena said with a smug smile. ...