"There's been word from the borders of the Earth Kingdom -- where the colonies are. Fighting's broken out again."

Steph's wrinkled face is sad.

"Some of our warriors are going to leave tomorrow morning. I wanted to ask you two if you'd help me cook. I know--" holding up a hand; "-- but you two can at least salt meat without burning yourselves, and they're going to need enough provisions for a good few weeks..."