Part 458: Robin B

Tsk! I just can't get this color right.

Er, Robin? You have paint on your cheek. ...And your chin. ...AND behind your ear.

Oh, er, so I do. Whoops!

Are you trying your hand at painting?

Yes! Seeing your drawing has inspired me to take up the palette myself... But, I fear I'm wasting my time. Just look at this muddy slop! Clearly when the gods distributed artistic talent, I was in the outhouse.

The gods would have waited for you, I'm sure. But let's take a look... Oh... dear. Er, it's a portrait of Lissa, is that right? You picked an odd color for her face... And the left eye is rather... oblong. Still, a fine first effort! We can't expect to be perfect straight away.

...It's a pegasus. And it's NOT my first try. It's my 100th.

Oh. ...Oh, dear.

You don't have to say anything, I can see it in your face. I should just give up.

N-no, I wouldn't go that far!

I would. Still, this little experiment helps me realize just how talented YOU are. I gaze on that picture you gave me every day, you know?

Not EVERY day, surely?

Each night before I sleep! It fills me with a wonderful sense of peace. I'm always worried it'll get damaged when we march, so I pack it very carefully.

You're the first person who's ever values one of my works so highly. And though pride be a sin, I'm... pleased that you treasure it so.