[ kaveh clicks his tongue, as if contending with a particularly stubborn horse. the sound resounds throughout the bedchamber. alhaitham allows him to do so. he turns another page of his book; the line of his book hides a not-smile, one that begins with the curve of alhaitham's eyes, and ends along the shifting of his shoulders. it never quite makes it to his mouth. it has never needed to. it has always been enough for alhaitham to know for himself that he is amused.

instead: ]

First: your argument relies on the premise that I have berated their craft. On which day and at which meal did I do so? If you are accusing me of such behaviour, should you not have the evidence to back up your claim?

Second: which is best received, the words said for the sake of them, or words said with sincerity? Or have the Lokapalans always preferred lip service to heart-worthy praise? The difference in cultures between our kingdoms must be wider than anticipated.