Orion lowered his gaze toward the bowl suspiciously.
"Is that even edible, Finn?" he asked with a raised eyebrow. "The other dishes look good, but this one…" He pointed lightly toward the meat. "It looks burnt."
"What if I propose another punishment instead, Your Majesty?" Finn asked respectfully.
You bastard! You actually want to cut off his hands?! Finn thought Inwardly.
Orion raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in his eyes.
"Oh? And what punishment would that be?"
Finn glanced at the terrified royal chef before speaking slowly.
"The royal chef's hands are how he provides for his family. I'm certain there are people depending on him." He paused briefly before continuing, "I believe Your Majesty is merciful enough to grant him a lesser punishment instead."
"How about we hold a cooking competition right here?" Finn suddenly added.
The moment those words left his mouth, waves of confusion swept through everyone present, including Orion himself.
