The Need for War - Part 3

They filled out, two men at a time, and left the tent flap stirring behind them. The remaining four individuals did not speak until that flap had ceased to move entirely.

"You will speak freely to me now, General Patrick, without an intermediary," Queen Asabel told him.

"It will be an honour," Oliver said, bowing lightly.

"Speak, then, as you have been bidden to," General Blackthorn said, prodding him impatiently. "Why did Blackwell send you here, of all people? Why does he insult us, with the title that you've been given."

"Naturally, his intention was not to see you insulted. Quite the opposite," Oliver said.