Responses
It is properly explained, I think the same!
Maybe its just my personal opinion but I agree with truth before white lies. I guess it is due my personal experience. Oh well, don't kill me for that :D
What if she leaves and those kids keep expecting her and grow up with that feeling of betrayal forever? It is better to say the truth.

I like how she says the truth to the kids because they need to be strong in order to survive in that palace.. it may sound harsh but those kids don't have anyone to actually help them understand the harshness of that place so her actions are helping them little by little. I'd rather they tell me the truth than a white lie and having to wait thinking they forgot about me