[Makoto's aim comes down with one loud CHOP as she hears Amanda's comment. In a characteristically controlled panic she scanned the area. She felt relieved when she saw the tufts of red hair. Oh thank goodness: she wasn't Futaba or Ren.]

[Makoto smiled sheepishly as she went back to chopping the fig in swift, precise cuts.]

I used to do cooking at home for me and sis. The asterisk isn't helping me be a better cook, but its great for slicing and dicing.