"But we haven't any with the necessary experience," says Vorob'yev with a sigh, "and you won't let me hire you away. Though I have tried."

"So start one without experience," is the first thing that pops into Miles's head, "and let her gain it. Would Milady Maz consider taking on an apprentice?"

"Now there's an idea," says Vorob'yev, trailing off on the thought and then refocusing and turning to his companion. "Maz, we should discuss this, but I must speak to Wilstar, whom I see just hitting the buffet over there. If I'm lucky, I can catch him with his mouth full. Excuse me."

Away goes Vorob'yev, leaving Miles and Mia to each other.