Lyristae's expression didn't change, but Damien felt the shadows respond to her anyway. The corners of the room darkened slightly, candle flames flickering.
"General Kardos," she said, and her voice had the precise quality of someone choosing their words very carefully to avoid saying something that would end a career. "Are you questioning my ability to separate personal matters from military command?"
Kardos held her gaze for exactly three seconds, which was impressive or suicidal depending on perspective.
"I'm questioning whether we should be formulating kingdom defense strategy based on the assessment of someone we know almost nothing about. Foreign noble, demon magic, conveniently appears before major demon incursion, intimate with our queen. Surely you see why that raises questions."
"I see that you're implying Lord Valcrest might be a demon collaborator," Lyristae said flatly. "In front of him. While he's standing in this room. That's remarkably bold."
