Why a person would be blamed for the inherent properties of their food seems bizarre to Faris, but then, humans can be so charmingly odd. "There are times when a courting pair may share a meal together, but it is not part of the process as it seems to be with humans," he explains. "For those who intend to bond for life, there is usually a great deal of conversation before commitment, and social activities for recreation. It can be complicated," he admits freely, though his ears flick back in mild embarrassment for his more unfortunate fellow K'da. "There are sometimes occasions where two K'da have great affection for one another, but find the other's host objectionable for whatever reason. Or perhaps the hosts themselves do not get along."

Chanath has seen this happen, and she bows her head slightly in both agreement and sympathy. "It is easiest for unbonded Shontine, I am certain. We have yet to face this issue, ourselves, but perhaps one day."

The Shontin has had blushing explained to her, but it is still fascinating to watch. Like a human equivalent of a K'da's battle-black, except with less danger involved, or so she hopes. What prompted this, she wonders? The eventual answer, however, is a deeply satisfying one. "If you have images of your garden, I would enjoy seeing them someday. I know little of gardening, but planting seeds in earth must be far more satisfactory than water gardens."