Being as literal-minded as she was and thus still being unused to what others would consider everyday nuances in conversation, Yorda blinked, confused. "I know the way to the kitchen, so it is not out of my way," she replied. She nodded at Urd's explanation; ever since Geoffrey had shown up, he had constantly lectured Mao on his behavior, encouraging him to become crueler. It frightened Yorda, and she had taken to avoiding Geoffrey when she could.

"Mao likes my cookies," came the reply. "He wants me to make for spiderweb cookies, but I have not been able to find the recipe yet." Yorda lowered her eyes, mildly upset she hadn't managed to help Mao with something he clearly wanted very much. "But he only acts strangely with chili. I do not know why, and he does not complain."