"The third-richest man on all of Barrayar got that way by selling a particularly clever drill bit," Byerly replies with an arch of his eyebrow. "Parlayed that into an unparalleled construction business. All he started out with was a good idea and a marketing campaign. So all you would need is your little rainbow sprinkles and someone to make your little rainbow sprinkles into the newest craze."

He buffs his nails on his shirtfront and says, idly, "Of course, I wonder if you know anyone who could make sure that all the most fashionable lords and ladies show up to your ice-cream shop...Someone with a silver tongue and impeccable connections - someone handsome and witty - someone with his finger on all the trends of the capital..."