[ a chuckle sounds, but it seems more like a suppressed snort. a reputation? falco can't help a snerk, and with a smile that's all playful, teasing, and no offense meant: ]

I heard. [ the rice incident was fairly recent. nothing can convince falco of an "accident". no escape, and no rest for paul! in the meantime, falco prepares the pans the cake should be eventually poured into, oiled, and floured. ] The first thing I tried to make alone was pasta, so that's one thing I want to teach. It's fast and feeds a lot of mouths. I'll find dishes with fish to learn, and you won't burn them or have to feed them to gulls.

[ he hopes. it's all about timing! ]

Your family was a noble family, right? Did people cook for them?

[ it's more an innocent question with an innocent, chatting finality. he doesn't seem bothered in the least if that was true. ]