After coming in late last night, and waking up so early that morning after a fitful sleep, Goneril had intended to sit and wait for Faolin on the windowseat nearest Fiona's room and read. She had accomplished the first part, but instead of reading, she was curled up and dozing, the book having been recommissioned as a pillow.

After a few passes, the house guard thoughtfully informed Fiona's guard, who in turn informed Faolin, who eventually came out of the Queen's chambers and stood watching her asleep, amused, for a few seconds. Finally, he gave her shoulder a gentle shake. "Goneril? You can't sleep here, dear."

"Mmm....why no...oh!" Goneril shook herself awake and rubbed the drool from her mouth. "Um..." She wiped her hand on the back of her other hand, blushing. "You're back?"

"How long have you been out here?" He offered her a hand up. "It's freezing in this hall."

"I'm..." Her teeth started to chatter. "Fi...er..." She took his hand-- hers was icy-- and pulled herself up. "It's a little chilly, yes," she agreed. "I...not too long? Since your meeting?"

He rubbed her cold hands between his. "It's a wonder you're not creaking like a hinge, all curled up like that. Sure you're all right? We've been done for ages, but His Lordship and I carried on talking for a while."

"I'm fine," she said, but she smiled and watched his hands move over hers. "I'm still young enough that curling up doesn't bother me. Who were you talking to?" she asked.

"Ah . . . " He looked at her, not sure if she meant the question seriously. Then he smiled as he realized his mistake. "Sorry. Your brother."

"Oh," Goneril replied. She frowned, and then scowled. "What did he want?" she asked. "Did he threaten to lock one of us up until you leave, too?"

"The usual," he replied. "Finding out my intentions and all that. I believe he left satisfied that you were safe enough in my care."