"Ah..." Averyl finally looked as if he was concentrating. "I have an interesting story to tell you about that, actually, Mr. Ernst..."

"Don't call me that," Roufas sighed. "It isn't helping."

"Well..." Averyl stopped as the waitress returned and placed a tiny piece of vanilla cake on the table. Sitting to the side were some orange slices.

Saffron stared at the meal in wonder. "Such a peculiar after-supper..."

"I wanted chocolate..." ...