The Queen waited with a calm expression for the General's answer. She was, in a way, testing the waters. Trying to get into the General's mind and see what he really thought. He was an interesting target. Getting him under her persuasion would probably bring his men along. But he was interesting in his own right. She wondered what she would have to offer in order to get him on her side.<br/><br/>Queen Aeliana stood up and walked closer to the fire, kneeling there as if to warm up. Her eyes reflected the dancing flames as she looked at Cassian. "I do not wish for war. But I do not believe words can bring peace, General. Words are so... weak, and fleeting. Such as..." She thought for a moment. On purpose or not, she used the example of marriage. "Let us take marriage for example, General. Taken literally, it is a matter of words. Words alone do not make for the loyalty and fidelity marriage should bring to hearts. How many wives, as their husbands are at war, take other men in their chambers?"<br/><br/>She smiled to the flames. "I believe there are more effective means of reaching peace."