While I know why she hasn't asked directly—she doesn't want to get held down, I'm rather frustrated that she doesn't just ask because quite honestly, they'd either think she was nuts, a spy (unlikely), or telling the truth—and if the latter, then she may well be able to get out of this without added stress. Now, she's going to be dragged along in secret because the boys feel compelled, but refuse to reveal the truth, thereby making her in effect a prisoner, which frankly irks me!
Would you just flatly state facts & that you do not intend to return to the empire? What's the worst they try to do? Imprison you? Bah! Run, then! 🤣🤦🤦♂️