First of all, curse the two of them. Second of all, thank heavens for the mask and the fact that Hythlodaeus chose to wear it for the trip, what with setting out from the city and environs. At least it mostly hides the sudden colouring of his cheeks, the only direct evidence to Hythlodaeus's embarrassment being the way his mouth sets into a stony line.

"Oh, if 'tis official information you are after, I must needs direct you to the Architect himself. I am certain he would be most glad to provide you with a detailed account of our Bureau's activities. I can but share some unofficial anecdotes - such as, for one, when he choked on his coffee when I innocently offered to share our desserts."

Love is war, as they say, and in this case it's a war of who manages to embarrass the other the most.