"Smallest common denominator"

Ninjas!

Now we definitely now they're faux ninjas ^^

I question why he would ask for the salt to be sent to him rather than just passed too him.

Passing the salt would include their hands being in attack proximity to each other. No true ninja allows anyone to be in close proximity and aware of that fact.

Would you trust a ninja to HAND you the salt? That's why the table is well polished, just give it a push. Game on : )