Just hearing that Ivy was ready to take charge left Kenny annoyed, and he asked sarcastically, "Did you think things can't get any worse? Forget talking to them—I would lose my presidency of the Calligraphy and Painting Association by the time you're done!"

Ivy wasn't upset despite his complaint. "Look, dear, I messed this up for you, so just give me a chance to make things right."

"Fine! Then tell me, how are you going to start things off?" Kenny demanded. "Everyone in the hierarchy loathes Jacob, and his being gone was exactly what they wanted. They're never going to agree to letting him back, especially when his old position of administrative vice-president has been taken. Or do you think they'd willingly take a demotion?"

Ivy shrugged. "Haven't you heard the phrase 'the king yet lives'?"

Kenny sighed. "I mean, sure? It's about how rivaling factions in a monarchy never release news about a dead monarch until they have sorted out who will claim the crown, right?"

"Exactly," Ivy