A scene from the throne room

We decline nothing — we merely await the delegation's opening remarks. Tell me, how fares the realm's arithmetic? You have been quiet, and quiet from you usually means the number has grown teeth.

Then keep it faithfully, for history will want the receipts. And mark this date, Advisor — the Carpenter of the Throne shall soon be paid in full. I have consulted the treasure chest and counted it twice; it holds exactly enough hope to cover the deposit, and we shall negotiate the rest at the door.