"That could have been more satisfactory", the sphinx commented, quietly. "But that's the problem with the more... indirect approach, is it not? It takes time to see the results." Playing like that could be fun, though. If one had nothing else to do.

"So, are we going to continue this act, or shall I go to try the clothes?" Sphix nodded towards the pile. "Those that are something I can actually wear, anyway."