179 She Arrives At the First Level (1/2)

Once the chocolates were cooled enough to maintain their shape, Robin separated the chocolate up. Pedro saw that she kept the majority of the batch to herself. She only put aside three pieces per person. Each serving was packaged in a bamboo leaf, tied up with string.

”Why so little?” Pedro asked.

”The first reason is that these taste so good that it's easy to get addicted to it. But, just like all sweets, eating too much on a regular basis can make you fat. So it's good to limit the portions.” Robin looked down at Quinn's portion thoughtfully.

”As for the second reason...Do you think we both have the energy to keep doing this regularly?” Robin asked wryly. She slipped an extra piece into Quinn's bag for his help earlier.

Pedro realized. She was saving the rest for future demand. He recalled how she saved the extra sushi, which smoothly paved their way in Port Oracle.

”So those extra two portions are for King Throm and Queen Ayva?” He asked.

”Mmmn. The invitation should be arriving soon. They've had enough time to speak of everything that happened this week.” Robin noted.

”Wait, so this was just a way for you to waste time?” Pedro looked oddly at Robin.

”How rude! Cooking is never a waste of time!” Robin shook her head. ”If I didn't finish this now, I'd not have the time to later. I like to keep my word. Be genuine to those who are genuine, after all. There's no need to give face to the double faced.”

”What does that mean?” Pedro asked. ”...that giving face thingumy..”

”It's a concept from a certain culture that places heavy emphasis upon honor-or at least external honor.” Robin mused.

”If someone did something dishonorable, and it was found out, he would have 'lost face' for his clan, and more importantly his ancestors. To honor a person, or to show them respect, would be considered 'giving them face'. This respect or honor was also sometimes used to call in favors from subordinates, or equals.”

”And do you agree with them?”

”Honestly? I think it's a bit ridiculous. Instead of focusing on outward displays of honor, I am more concerned with being genuinely honorable. If the inner substance isn't solid, the gilded exterior can only become as singing brass. Or like an empty drum that can only make a lot of noise. Always clamoring about honor and respect doesn't make one respectable, after all.” Robin replied thoughtfully.

”Words don't make the man. Actions do. But a man should be careful to keep his word, and not bluster.”

She patted Ponzu's other shoulder. ”Remember this, Ponzu. There are many people who speak well. They can even pantomime respectability. But when it comes time they ought to step up, they will be the first to run. That's why truly honorable people who care about their companions and keep their word are treasures.”

Then Robin swept up the two servings for Ayva and Throm, leaving Ponzu in the kitchen with two identical chocolate handprints on his shoulders, as well as the rest of the chocolates to distribute. Robin hummed to herself as she walked away. That bit of mischief managed to restore her good mood.

”Robin..” Christian called, once he saw her emerge from the kitchen. ”Are you finally finished?”

”Mmn! I left your portions with Ponzu. I think a messenger should be summoning me to the castle, soon. So, don't expect me to be back in time for dinner.” Robin replied.

”Dinner? Did you even have lunch yet?” Christian asked with a somewhat pointed look.

”Did you?” Robin asked.

”We had tavern fare. But don't change the subject. Did you eat lunch today?” Christian pressed the question.

”Why of course I-wait....” Robin thought back. ”Huh. Seems like I forgot. I guess I just wasn't that hungry today.”

Christian flicked her forehead.

”Hey! What was that for?” Robin rubbed her forehead.

Christian growled. ”Robin, I won't say not to bake things, but we'll get very worried if you end up skipping meals like this. You just got over a cold, so it's not good for your health. I know you have a backup supply in your magic bag. So, even if there's no time to cook, there's no excuse!”

”All right! Fine, I'll eat something. Okay?” Robin waved her hands placatingly, although she felt a bit aggravated at Christian's overexaggeration. Missing a meal wasn't that important.

”Right now, where I can see you.” Christian emphasized.