Getting to Know the Neighbors

Demonstrating the kitchen was quite easy. There were many recipes included in the machine's memory, but adding more was no problem. Cassie wasn't sure what the ingredient list included but was told not to worry about it. She could enter, as on a computer, any favorite recipe she knew, but had to be sure to include the serving size.

Sten, Frau, and Cassie sat at the table with steaming dishes. Cassie was careful with the fine china and crystal stemware, horrified that the real silver flatware would damage the delicate plates. Sten assured her that all was well, and encouraged her to "dig in" and enjoy the meal.

As the three sat with dessert and steaming coffee, Cassie decided to open the subject of Hiro. "You were highly recommended as helpful and kind people by Hiro, which seems to be borne out. Thank you for your hospitality." She then smiled in what she hoped was an open and pleasant manner and waited for some response.

None came.

They continued to sip at now cooling coffee. Cassie really wanted to know what the animosity was based on. "He was very helpful when I seemed so lost." No response.

There was more coffee poured and sipped with Sten and Frau giving each other furtive glances.

"Hiro is a very nice man. We know that. His culture is quite different from ours. Our planet has overcome all violence and we are a very peaceful and idyllic place." Frau looked at his wife before continuing, "We were confronted with a Highwayman soon after we got here."

Cassie was stunned. She had met the notorious Highwayman in the bar. He was large and powerful and elicited a visceral response from her that was in no way violent. She was caught by him as she fantasized about a tryst and it still embarrassed her. Her face now filled with color.

"Ah, I see you know him. He offended you, too?" asked Sten.

"Well, no. I thought he was quite remarkable. I mean, as a man. I mean, you know. He looked, um, well, interesting. Except that he has a barfly that stays with him all the time and she was scary."

"Did he attempt to rob you?" asked Frau.

"No. I have nothing to steal." Cassie was puzzled. There was no need to rob here, everyone could have everything. The Highwayman and his Brazen Hussy were both able to get what they wanted without resorting to violence. "And they have no need to plunder. They could have anything they wanted anyway."

"No, part of what they want is the terror the victims offer. And the Highwayman loves a good fight." Frau said this last with conviction.

"What has that got to do with Hiro?"

Sten looked at her husband and said she would tell Cassie the story later. She picked up the finished desserts and coffees and put the dishes back in the machine.

"Would you like to see the gardens?" she asked Cassie. The two women went out to a beautiful sea of colored blooms.