Antiope isn’t sure what moment it is, exactly, that her companion seems to lose herself in her thoughts. She recognizes the look, though, when someone’s mind is elsewhere, and cannot help her curiosity.

She does know the moment Castalla returns, focusing back on their conversation. “Certainly makes for an exciting and busy one,” the Regent remarks in kind, smiling mirthfully.

The other woman glances up toward the sky and then moves to excuse herself. A meeting, at this hour? Antiope shouldn’t be surprised, if the woman’s services are what she imagines them to be.

The Regent stands there a moment longer, until Castalla has already gone. “Until we meet again,” she says to the dark and quiet, like hope, and turns back toward the markets.

"Speaking."