"Thank you, Nadia," Hilde said evenly. "You're quite right, I should have been more specific." After drawing in a breath to steel herself, she continued, "Despite this, Lord General, I must ask—will you endorse me in place of Lothar and the Prince?"
When seconds passed with no answer from the older man, Hilde was forced to turn her head sideways so she may see what expression he wore. The Lord was still watching the approaching group of people, but from a considering frown, his expression eased into one of recognition. Hilde blinked when he suddenly turned to meet her intent stare.
"Princess, I don't believe you've met my younger son?"
For an infinitesimal moment, Hilde saw red.
'No…' she thought as a chill coursed through her body despite the searing sun on her skin. 'Not you too…'
