Luneshale Pass just an appendage

Toula heard the quavering in her voice, heard the real feeling there. and she sighs as she says, never shall you leave me alone with this man, then, until such a time that his trust is earned. Senmut should not have disobeyed—no doubt, it was a play at power. a test perhaps to see who else might listen. but if it was only his men, she hummed, we have nothing to fear. you are my people, and you each have my own protection. they must learn what that means—and if this man truly wishes to marry me, then they must learn what ruling Akashingo means. certainly not needless violence, she shook her head at that. 
your instinct is important. with you by my side, I do not fear, her eyes were bright. I am glad you have told me this. even now she was unafraid. she was, in fact, relieved to hear this. her people trusted her. 
what do you think of his men? she asked, eyes bright.