However, Hilde knew that deep down, these were sincere excuses that both mother and daughter were giving themselves to explain away their precious family member's behavior.
Setting aside the Queen's past actions toward her, even Hilde was unsure whether this new attitude on display for everyone to see was a temporary "acting out" due to grief or if it was the first signs of a dam of hatred collapsing.
Hilde didn't know whether or not she should speak to them of her suspicions. She certainly didn't expect they'd simply believe her out of hand.
Once again, the Queen's smile that did not reach her eyes appeared.
"No need," she said, getting to her feet with the suave assistance of two of her attendants. "We should get on with the rites instead." She heaved a short sigh. "Then home, and
