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All things considered, Tetheus thought it was rather remarkable none of them had yet turned down an invitation for afternoon tea. Of course, the Lady Raseleane was a remarkable woman.
"It would be good if everyone could keep their mouth shut this time," Alfeegi said.
Kai-stern smiled his polite diplomat's smile. "It might be considered somewhat impolite to let Her Highness do all the talking by herself. To say nothing of impossible."
Alfeegi scowled. Ruwalk coughed. "Well, really," he said. "It's not as if there's anything we're not allowed to tell her about, is there? Right now?"
"There's always something," Alfeegi said darkly. And, Tetheus admitted to himself, accurately, even if one had to wonder how many of the 'secrets' they were supposed to keep were actually intended to remain so, and how often they were simply Lord Lykouleon's idea of something akin to a joke. By now, surely he ought to know better than to expect any of his Officers to be able to hide something from his queen, especially when there was tea involved.
Cernozura eyed the well-filled tray with a certain amount of concern. "Cookies, your highness?"
Lady Raseleane looked slightly worried. "You don't think they'll like them? I baked them myself the other day – Kai-stern brought back the recipe from one of his trips, and this seemed a perfect opportunity to serve them."
"I see." Cernozura considered. "I don't believe Lord Lykouleon has entrusted anyone with his plans for your anniversary next week," she said at last.
"Good. That should be fine, then."