[ She hums lightly, thoughtfully in response, demeanour shaping itself back into something less edged, but a glimmer of something sharper yet remains in her eyes. Flecked with a detached derision born of familiarity, they follow the letter's movement before closing. ]

Until the play reveals its seams, the performers defy their directions, and the actors wait for curtain call, I suppose.

[ Unnecessarily poetic, and yet. In a future that hasn't happened, she was the heart of a Nutcracker Ballet. There is girlhood somewhere in her, even if buried. ]

There's no good in fighting, if you cripple yourself unnecessarily before accomplishing anything of use.

[ She is absolutely not sniping at anyone she knew, no. ]