Ludvig's fist sank deeper into his cheek, closing his eyes and tilting his head in thought.

[sup]『 [i]Ludvig[/i] 』[/sup][indent]"Hmm, rebuilding even half-close to their former scale implies funding they usually never have.
It's not even just the money. As I said, instill enough fear to make the followers reluctant in persisting to do it. Funding's already one thing, but loyal manpower is sooo much harder to replace.
Not even to mention facilities, supply chains, human network and connections, plus any potential 'customers' would think twice before dealing with some fledgling peddler they aren't familiar with."[/indent]
He inhaled, needing to catch some air after that lengthy ramble. The moment of relative silence allowed him to rethink the other party's position, and as he did so his head immediately perked up and straightened.

[sup]『 [i]Ludvig[/i] 』[/sup][indent]"By the way, you sounded like Amaris just now. She must have indeed won you over in the end."[/indent]
A nonchalant thumb up from the right hand still elbowing his knee, while glancing at Amaris.

[sup]『 [i]Ludvig[/i] 』[/sup][indent]"I believe it is your victory, my dearest."[/indent]