The Queen seemed perfectly calm as she waited for her words to sink into the General, as she usually did after saying anything. It was clear she was more than used to speaking in public and did so with ease and grace. Still, there was some strength to her words, some certainty as to what she was saying. If she was not being honest in any point, she seemed to hide it very well.<br/><br/>When the General seemed surprised by her position, the Queen didn't even blink. "I would prefer to subdue them. They need not to be eliminated", she answered calmly. "Unless they prove to be too much of a problem to be kept alive, naturally". She paused for a moment, her eyes assuming a pensive expression. "As his wife, I must support him in public, and that I do, General. But in private, I am entitled to my own opinion, and this is it. I believe sometimes it takes a fight before we are allowed to live in peace."<br/><br/>Feeling the General's skin under her palm made the Queen take a deep breath. She felt a slight tingle down her back, but took a deep breath to regain control. He had all the qualities - and flaws - she liked in a man. But now was not the time to think of such things. As he finally agreed to rest, she smiled and nodded. "I will, general. Do not worry about a thing."<br/><br/>Waiting for the General to drift off to sleep, the Queen sat by the fire, keeping the flames alive. It would be a long and cold night, but she had no fear of attacks. She was sure there would be none, after all. For the next few hours, in the silent night, Queen Aeliana watched and planned. Only when it was almost daylight, feeling a slight drowsiness finally catch up to her, did the young woman finally lay herself to rest, right by the general's side. Her left hand - clutching the dagger - laid on his chest, and she closed her eyes, falling quickly into a light sleep.