[ Rust hesitates. It's a tight interval, between what's noticeable and what's rude, and he tests his luck a little. ]

Isn't she generous? [ He says of Misato, his tone not entirely complimentary. Corrupt means acting as though he owns a piece of everyone, or could arrange to. ] With her words as much as her scarves.

[ Glancing again at Captain Syn, he dips his head to Lakshmi's ear. Whispers: ] I'll let you demand a private audience.

[ To Ilya Mor: ] No, this—this would be more in the nature of an exchange.