In a rare occurrence, Lady Ilse forced herself to rein in her initial reactions after hearing the Lord General's words. Surprise or anger, no matter how justified, would have no place here if it came from her. Swallowing, she instead showed a smile that did not reach her wide-open eyes.
"How strange," she said. "I cannot see how she would not want to declare war as much as we all do—like you, she must be wanting it even more. It wasn't only a Prince or a General she’d lost, Lord. Dieter was her brother first and foremost. Did the Queen say in her own words that there will be no war?"
Lord Alfwin met the Lady's intent stare for a moment then looked away.
"It is only court speculation," he conceded quietly. "The Queen's been rejecting every draft of the declaration. I… I too have only jus
