[ when angela begins to speak, malkuth's pen moves against the paper. things that are obvious-- things she would've remembered a moment too late, or would've slipped through the cracks with her own good intentions at the forefront, this is what she needed angela for. someone outside, who can pick it apart and see clearly... ]

Yup! Got it all down. I know the people in Basileios might be willing to put money into it if we could pitch it just right, [ being bored rich folk has its perks, ] but I don't feel like that's quite the right answer, either. They wouldn't have the interests of East Sophia at heart...

[ so accruing any necessary funds would be... hmmm. she taps her lips with her pen, humming softly. ]

Well, I guess that's where a little gambling and some sweet talking comes in. We'll coast free until we can't and use what money we've got to spare, whether from the businesses that set up shop or out of pocket from the jobs we've picked up, for the unavoidable. Thanks, Angela! I knew I could count on you.

[ ...

but she will still just be. sitting here. ]