Hideaway Strath Synapses Snap Back in Blissful Anguish

Machiavelli listened intently, noting the validity of her concern yet unable to help a flicker of offense briefly crossed his ivory features. His expression was delicate yet unmistakable, a slight lift of his chin signaling his disapproval. I only ask "funny" things of clowns, dear, he sniffed. Although he supposed that might only concern her further if she turned out to be a fool after all.

No, what I seek is far simpler than that, Machiavelli continued, I merely wish to know—are we east, or west of the desert? That is all. The request was straightforward, though there was an unmistakable urgency in his gaze.