Now she just looks apologetic. "It has been weeks," she agrees, looking over her shoulder toward the guards she knows are posted about them. "I'm sure I can negotiate something. Between myself and Era here, I'd say you'll definitely be well watched." She grins at the 'horse's' snuff at her comment. "If the Archangel can't hold her own, what good am I anyway?"
She's just... going to refocus past that hint of doubt there.

She shakes her head. "I'm not sure it's much of a game anymore," she sighs. "I've put quite a few of my own Council back in their place, but given I'm the only one left of my name, I don't get a lot of wiggle room. Fortunately, despite those who still want me removed, there's... really no getting around it."

It's not like she can just pass the Archangel's Gifts to anyone else.... unless she's killed. And then what?