"Moot", said Ferris. "You have to tell me where you think things are lining up. Who's taking sides with whom?"

There was a long lull as the lunch crowd cleared out, leaving the waitresses clustered in the back tallying their take. Moot drew a deep breath and began.

"My guess? Madonna's fighting Love for control. That much seems clear. Franken and Chapelle will happily go with whomever wins- they don't have loyalties and just want to keep their seats at the table. What I'm really concerned with, though..." he glanced around, scanning for familiar faces, "...is Knight. He could either upend the whole enterprise if he doesn't want either of them to win the day- which I think is likely." Moot lowered his voice further, to just above a whisper. "Or, he might see this as his big chance, and be angling for a coup that would put him in charge."

"I have a feeling we'll have to choose sides very soon." replied Ferris. "Who's side are you on?"

After a long pause, Moot said, "I'm inclined to bet against the odds and choose Knight. Not only are both Madonna and Love in the game for vanity, but they don't care about, nor do they even grasp what we do. Plus, frankly, I have nothing to lose... You, on the other hand...?"

Ferris demurred. "Another big question: will Valentine go with Knight?"

"That," said Moot "remains to be seen. Your guess is as good as mine. Ready to hit the road?" They paid their check and climbed into the rental car parked outside.