Ink, Blink, and Mustard rudely called Custard because they mocked his inherent timidity and perceived lack of courage. They frequently teased him for being a fearful dragon, despite his impressive appearance.
The Reason Behind the Mockery
The pets in Belinda's house, including the kitten Ink, the mouse Blink, and the dog Mustard, all considered Custard to be a coward. Their rude behavior stemmed from:
- Custard's Gentle Nature: Unlike the other animals who boasted of their bravery, Custard was a peace-loving dragon who often expressed a desire for a "nice, real live dragon" instead of grand adventures, leading them to believe he was genuinely afraid.
- Perceived Lack of Courage: Ink, Blink, and Mustard, along with their owner Belinda, constantly perceived Custard as timid and lacking the bravery expected of a dragon. They found amusement in his cautious and non-threatening demeanor.
- Collective Teasing: The entire household, including Belinda who would tickle and taunt him, participated in mocking Custard's timidity, fostering an environment where his fear was a source of entertainment for them.
The Significance of the Name "Percival"
One of the primary ways Ink, Blink, and Mustard rudely addressed Custard was by sarcastically calling him Percival. This specific name was chosen to highlight their mockery:
- Who was Percival? In the legends of King Arthur, Percival was celebrated as a brave and valiant knight of the Round Table, known for his courage and chivalry.
- The Taunt: By dubbing the fearful Custard with the name of such a legendary hero, Ink, Blink, and Mustard were deliberately creating a stark contrast. It was a pointed, sarcastic way to underscore what they saw as Custard's significant lack of bravery and courage. Their intention was to ridicule him and emphasize his perceived cowardice.
Thus, their rude calls and nicknames were a consistent form of taunting aimed at Custard's gentle and fearful disposition.
