especially in the way Keith is conveniently and unexpectedly saved from actually being cashiered a second time.

Wouldn't be a story if he had to go and earn his living as a secretary or riding-master or something! Prophecy, what prophecy?

I like the thought of her using her own war experience to inspire military background characters!

The tiny detail that's a stand-out to me is at the shieling when Guthrie's saddle creaks as he pulls himself upright again. That's a memory of her own, or I'll eat my hat.