"Mm, I was surprised, to say the least. I was certain they'd have found a way to twist Victor's arm into taking the spot, regardless of his protestations." Pulling the olive off its toothpick with her teeth, Ivona took a sip of vodka and swallowed before continuing.

"Yet I'm sure their Majesties have their reasons, be those what they may." Not that she was petulant in the least--Ivona knew full well her history with Clive had slashed any chance she might have ever had for such a position if he'd ever become more than a Ten, and look, lightning had struck. No, she quite enjoyed her work where she was.

"Although I will say it'll be quite interesting a dance to watch, given the friction between David's son and our former Ace." Her devious smirk deepened as she smiled it into her glass. "Downright entertaining, I'd even bet."