"I already have a company, several." Octavia replied simply as she moved to take the lead in the dance and rotate their placement until her back was to the room. Thus no one else one could read the truth on her lips. 

"I am in the process of getting them everything they need to compete with Hubert. The excitement should generate a renewed interest in competing with the PAS for the best innovations. New development should open up employment opportunities for our stray engineers before they've floundered into other fields."

Octavia endeavored to turn them again so that Max' facial reaction would not be visible to the crowd. The music was at its loudest creschendo, but her heart was racing, she couldn't delay any longer. She rolled up on her toes to be closer to his ear.

"All that being said, I don't have months to wait for Hubert to ruin himself. I've decided to sink him this week. Would you be interested in helping me move an airship?"