Janius exhaled sharply and closed his eyes at that comment. Normally, he wouldn't mind, but he was so worked up about their discussion already that he couldn't leave it at that. He felt as if she had completely missed the point. He raised his voice with wide, angry eyes, "No! It's not about that! It-" he interrupted himself and pursed his lips before he made too much noise. He felt like going on a rant about personal honesty and pride, and how lying to herself and others would only be degrading. As he tried to form the words, however, he couldn't for the life of him come up with anything that would also be in the interest of leading people in this war. In fact, there was probably nothing he could say that Meesei wasn't already aware of. Keeping up appearances in her behaviour was a conscious sacrifice she was making, not one driven by personal inadequacy. Janius closed his eyes and sighed through his nose, admitting defeat.

With a solemn voice, he responded, "I think this is why you're the leader, Meesei. I don't think I could do what you do. Regardless of my blasted loins." He slowly put his book away, "Just... stay yourself around us and the pack, okay?" With one last glance of concern, Janius slid down and lay on his side under his bedsheets, facing away from Meesei. He was tired of talking.