For The Lady Who Has Everything [closed]
Characters: Smoke/Sha Gojyo (inthecenterfold) and Chivalry/Sanji (blacklegcook); then Smoke and Juliet/Grell Sutcliffe (esoteric_rose)
Date/Time: Tuesday October 19th 2010 midday; then midnight
Location: The Wilderness -- Mess Hall; then by the lake
Rating: PG13 for two foul mouths
Summary: Smoke had made plans to talk to Juliet and then the hurricane hit and he got busy, so down in the Camp Annawanna Wilderness he improvises, mostly through the aid of Chivalry. That same night, Smoke goes to talk to Juliet by the lake about all the strange things he's been noticing since his return and through the Hourglass incident.
------
After taking the morning shift for so many days, Smoke finally got an evening shift on Monday night. He'd enjoyed sleeping in immensely, so by the time he was done and on his way back, he wasn't actually all that tired. He ended up sitting outside of his cabin for awhile, just smoking and listening to the sounds of the outdoors. Smoke was getting very used to that tingling feeling at the base of your neck that meant 'this is familiar,' but at the same time he didn't like it very much. It was different when it was a cook-out with his brothers, but just sitting out here alone with the croaking of frogs and soft calls from insect to insect... this he didn't like all that much. The stars being so bright and visible, though, that was okay.
He opted for a walk to calm his nerves and to wear himself out a bit before he slept, but he didn't get far. Soon he heard - and saw - someone else walking around in the night and it took a bit, but he eventually identified the person as Juliet. He took one step towards her, but immediately stopped in his tracks.
Damnit I still need to talk to her. I was going to do it before, but then the hurricane mess started, and now I can't even use Inara's place like she offered, let alone bring any tea out here. Smoke resolved that he'd see if he could still make this work. He watched for a bit longer and found her heading towards the lake. Okay, so maybe she'll come back here again. That's pretty private, right? At night with no one else around. So now just gotta figure out something with the food... Food...
Shiv! Maybe he can help... If he doesn't kick me first. Hell it's worth a shot; not like I can run out to the Marketplace like this and just buy something.
------
So the next day Smoke decided to find Shiv, after he woke up in the late morning. He knew of only two other blond-haired men in Edensphere -- Reed and Moon -- so he hoped that Shiv wouldn't be too hard to find. He'd have used the journals but didn't for three reasons -- one, it was supposed to be a surprise for Juliet, two, the talk itself was meant to be really private, and three, the journals were on the fritz and being weird so Smoke didn't expect he could get his point across anyway. That and Shiv seemed to warm up more in person than on paper - a lot of people were like that, he supposed, but Shiv especially.
It was one of the only times that Smoke was grateful for the relatively small area the Wilderness had turned into compared to other times - like a whole city - and that the hurricane had shoved everyone together in these same small quarters. It meant that all Smoke had to do was start looking around in front of his cabin to spy a man with blond hair walking towards the mess hall.
Smoke had to hustle to catch up to him and it was as he approached Shiv's back at a few feet away that he realized just how far away he'd seen Shiv. Huh. Damn good eyesight.
He stopped jogging then and walked, evening his breath as he did so.
"Yo, Shiv!"
blacklegcook
It had started off as a lovely day. Well, what constituted as lovely down above a raging storm. Today Chivalry made his usual trip to the mess hall. It was the only place with a fully functioning kitchen and he was in the mood to try out new things.
Hmm…Maybe I'll try out some dinner dishes or perhaps lunches?
Head tilted upwards with a cigarette rolled lazily between his lips and hands forever within pockets; he mulled over all the different foods he'd like to get to work on today.
The mess hall was coming into sights when Chivalry heard running footsteps behind him and the eerily similar voice calling out to him. His steps stilled, head turned to regard the redhead with a vaguely curious look.
"Hmm?" The previous conversation he had shared with the man was the only reason the blond wasn't as hostile today.
inthecenterfold
Well that's promising, Smoke thought as he acknowledged Shiv's fairly placid response to his presence. Didn't make it much easier on Smoke's part to explain himself, though.
"Hey I... need to ask a favor, actually." His left hand immediately went to the nape of his neck. His tone was even enough, trying to act like it wasn't a big deal. " 'Cuz I can't buy any food down here, and I was planning to buy something really nice for her, so..."
He turned his face slightly away. "Any chance you'd be able to make a light snack for two? I'll pay for it."
Smoke kept his face turned away, but turned his eyes back to gauge Shiv's reaction. It may have been different if Shiv had been working at the bar and Smoke just ordered something, but being stuck out in the Wilderness like this... it was a legitimate favor he was asking, not just a purchase of services.
blacklegcook
Chivalry fully turned to regard him, eyebrow arched at the man's...awkwardness? It was the best way to describe his body language at least.
That curled eyed only climbed higher up as he listened to the man's request. Well, that was surprising. So much so that Chivalry couldn't help to comment.
"Ohh? I thought you only liked shitty-men." Just the barest narrowing of eyes gave hint to how Chivalry had felt about that. Considering the pervert's previous comments to him it was only natural for the blond to come to that conclusion. Though it appeared as if the redhead's question went unanswered the blond's actions spoke louder. Chivalry continued down the beaten trail towards the mess hall fully expecting the idiot to follow along.
inthecenterfold
Smoke couldn't bite his tongue for that, even if this was for Juliet. His face contorted into an agitated snarl, no joking involved. "I tease a lot of people. Still like chicks. What does that even-"
Then Chivalry started walking away and Smoke momentarily cursed under his breath. He was still angry now, but mainly because he didn't have a Plan B. He really didn't think that the blond's body language said anything like 'sure no problem,' and he sure as heck didn't say 'yeah fine, so long as you pay.'
So he shouted at Chivalry's back. "Oi! Hold up! Come on, man..." He trailed off there and closed his eyes in frustration. He refused to beg - that was going way too far. Money should be enough, since the turn this conversation took was damning enough to his pride. He pulled out his cigarette pack and started tapping out a stick. "Sorry for wasting your precious fucking time."
blacklegcook
"Shut up." It was drawled out coolly. Chivalry didn't stop his strides either or look back to give the man reassuring looks. If that's what Smoke wanted, he was looking at the wrong man.
"Idiot...Any person can figure out where I'm going. I thought it was pretty obvious what my answer would be." He pulled one hand from the confines of his pocket to emphasis this by with a pointed finger towards the mess hall.
Smoke had done favors for the blond; the cigarettes and the spar being the examples. Chivalry would have figured the guy would remember that. Food repaid the first and he figured giving the idiot another meal wouldn't be a big deal. After all, cooking had been what Chivalry had intended for today and actually having people to feed made it better.
He'd just conveniently forget that Smoke was one of them. There was a lady in need of a delicious meal and he'd never deny a woman anything! Still--It was amusing to finally have the redhead riled up instead of himself for once. Good thing Smoke couldn't catch his smirk from this perspective.
inthecenterfold
Smoke's eyes narrowed. "Whadju say--?!*"
How fucking hard is it to say 'I'll do it'? For all I know you were just going on your merry way and totally ignoring me. Damnit.
But he stopped another snappy comment from leaving his mouth, because by that point Shiv's words did give Smoke some impression he was going to make the requested food. "Che."
He started walking after Chivalry then, thinking about that last remark -- 'I thought it was pretty obvious what my answer would be.' That told Smoke two things. First was that his ability to understand tone of voice was still in working order -- they just had very different concepts of body language. He was taking Chivalry as someone used to being stiff as a pole, and thinking perhaps that was where the stuffy name came in to play. Smoke supposed that he should've already figured that out, but here it was being confirmed. The second thing was that it had never entered Shiv's head to say 'no' the whole time. That part actually puzzled Smoke a bit more.
We're not friends - how would it be obvious? This is a favor... and I never said who it was for, other than being a girl. Seriously, what happened? I bummed a cig the other night from a guy who doesn't like me; he just admitted he hated how I teased him. I could understand grudgingly agreeing to do it with payment, but for it to be obvious? What the fuck did I miss here?
These thoughts kept Smoke occupied all the way to the mess hall.
[[*Translation for 'N Da to?, shortened and slang version of "What'd you say?!"]]
blacklegcook
"I can hear your shitty-brain cells dying from here. Stop thinking so hard about it." That's when Chivalry turned by the door; a foot kicked it open and a wide smirk spread.
The blond definitely enjoyed finally one-upping the redhead for once. It was what he deserved for all the shitty-perverted comments sent his way that obviously were this man's way of joking around. Unfortunately, Chivalry didn't find them funny in the least.
The blond indicated to enter with a jerk of his head. Had it been that hard to understand? Geez.
"Come on, idiot. I'll whip something up that will make the lady more than pleased." Confidence? Check. When it came to cooking, the blond's trials and successes only continued to feed his pride.
inthecenterfold
"Better be damn awesome for me not to deck you for that. I recall getting kicked in the head when I teased a certain someone."
Smoke saw Shiv kick the door open and the head jerk, but he was honestly expecting Shiv to go in first. Like Smoke knew where he was going and... wait. That smile. Oh hell no.
The redhead stood right next to Chivalry for a moment. Then he collapsed against the outer wall with his arms folded. He put his drawn cigarette into his mouth and then pulled out his lighter.
As he struck it up, he cupped his hands over the cigarette. He mumbled around the stick, but his words were clear, his tone even, matter-of-fact and verging on... respect of all things.
"Your territory. You lead."
blacklegcook
Chivalry ignored that first part; he knew that it was just the product of a riled up redhead. As if the cook would make anything that wasn't anything short of amazing.
The blond frowned around a cigarette when Smoke didn't fall for the next subtle joke and merely stood his ground. Ah well...
Then the guy had to go and say that in that tone. It almost made Chivalry feel guilty...maybe. He blew out a long string of smoke with a sigh.
"Geez...Alright." He went inside and instantly made his way toward the Mess Hall's kitchen. It was time to get down to work. The mood instantly shifted and Chivalry stepped in and then around the kitchen's front counter; where orders were usually made.
"What would the lady like to eat?" He asked in an almost kindly manner. The blond had gotten used to this attitude, since he started work at the bar. That and the fact that cooking for a woman just gave added pleasure to the whole affair.
inthecenterfold
Smoke walked silently into the Mess Hall after Chivalry. The wooden tables weren't all that strange to him - it was about as big as he expected a large tavern to be. The slats on the walls, the beams on the ceiling - it was much more familiar to him than most places in the Sphere. Shiv certainly didn't waste any time though, so he caught Smoke off-guard as he was staring around the room.
"Hell if I know. Figured one step up from a sandwich or something, really." He pulled out the cigarette from his mouth and blew a bit of smoke. "I dunno, you pick something. Anything I can take outta here is fine."
Smoke didn't see this as a 'date' - namely because he hadn't even asked Juliet about it - and more importantly had lost all memories of dating culture he'd learned during his time with Ghost, including any lessons from the likes of Clé and Kanin. To him, it wasn't a 'visiting courtesy' either - it was specific to Juliet. It was an attempt to show he meant well, given how serious Inara had been with him.
blacklegcook
That had Chivalry facepalm, literally. His hand mussed up blond hair and he just gave Smoke a disbelieving stare. Who the hell asked someone for a favor and had no clue what they wanted?
"Geez...Are you an idiot?" A 'tsk' issued forth from his lips. "What sort of shitty-man doesn't know what their 'date' likes to eat?" More mutters followed under his breath. They mainly had to do with uncultured men and their inability to satisfy a lady properly.
Sleeves were rolled up to his elbows and he rummaged for one of the cookbooks he'd left here last time. Once found, Chivalry flipped through its pages. His visible eye darted back and forth over the words as he read the recipes and teeth bit down around the butt of his cigarette in contemplation.
"Hmm...How about this?" The book was turned with a quick twist of his wrist towards the redhead; his finger tapped at the image.
inthecenterfold
"... It's not a date. She's not my girlfriend or anything like that," Smoke retorted.
He left out the fact that he'd kissed her a few times and wanted more, or that he'd taken her out to the Festival; that wasn't what mattered here, and like hell he wanted Shiv blabbing to anyone he was dating someone when he definitely wasn't. He still didn't understand everything about dating culture, but he'd realized by now that to other people it mattered a lot. Someone's "boyfriend" or "girlfriend" was a big deal, and it was usually an exclusive relationship. So it was easier to just make Shiv believe that the girl he was meeting was just a friend.
"Look, she just likes nice things - she dresses nice, she works at the spa... So I wanted something better than a sandwich, but hell if I know what all's possible. Why do you think I asked for your help in the first place?"
He walked over a bit closer to see the picture indicated by Shiv's finger, then nodded. "Looks good at least - and I think she likes fish. Don't know what half of that other stuff is, so I'll have to take your word it tastes good."
blacklegcook
His lips pursed tightly as he listened. The idiot had better not be leading a lady on for just a quick--That thought was stubbed out the same moment that the cigarette between his teeth was.
Pervert the man may be, but Smoke said it had been teasing. Chivalry wanted to think that the other side of the man he'd spoken with a few days ago was the real person beneath; for now at least or until Smoke proved him wrong. If that happened then he'd kick the shit out of him...or if he pissed him off, which ever came first.
"Got it." The book was snapped shut with finality. The blond didn't need it. With all the nights Chivalry read it, he already had the majority of the recipes memorized. "Might as well sit down and wait."
A turn of his heel and the blond made quick work to show just how well he knew the kitchen. Cabinets, drawers, refrigerator door--all were opened and closed once he'd obtained whatever he needed from them, with a grace born from natural skill.
The cutting board was set, a proper skillet was magically coated with oil and turned over a medium fire to heat. Sausages came next, garlic crushed as that cooked, onion sliced with the knife skill of a professional, the same treatment was given to freshly washed potatoes and soon all joined the browned meat.
Throughout it all the blond had stayed silent, until something from their previous conversation rose to the surface now that he'd reminded himself of it. "...Oi, why'd you say 'that' last time?" He kept his back to Smoke as he spoke; the food took more priority than whatever answer the man gave. That was if the idiot could understand what he meant this time.
inthecenterfold
Smoke watched Shiv work, leaning over the countertop on his elbows and looking into the kitchen. He had been planning to ask if he could help, but two things stopped him. For one, his few attempts working around the kitchen when he'd last run the bar had ended with black smoke. For two, within a minute it was clear how comfortably Chivalry moved about the kitchen.
No way he figured all this out with just a few days at the bar's kitchen and a few days here in the Wilderness.
Smoke continued following the blond's movements, noting how dexterous his hands were for someone who refused to use his fists in a battle. The first time he saw a smile, he wasn't sure it was real. The second time, Shiv's head turned too fast for Smoke to be sure either. The third time, though, Smoke was sure that yes in fact Chivalry wasn't just good at cooking, he enjoyed cooking. As much as Smoke loved the atmosphere of a tavern, Shiv loved a kitchen.
Probably the only time he relaxes, either. It was a very different energy than the 'stiffness' Smoke had gleaned from Shiv's posture earlier.
Then Chivalry asked a question about 'that' and Smoke couldn't answer right away. A couple of the things they'd talked about had been questions from Shiv that Smoke answered; not much of it had been volunteered, per se. And he did explain why he'd stopped in the first place, so it was unlikely Shiv would ask about that again.
The only thing he could think of was either him saying 'Thanks' - since Shiv seemed to have it in his mind that Smoke was crass and rude about everything and everyone - or possibly the last thing he'd said before they parted ways. Given the atmosphere, either one was likely at this point.
" 'That' being... to give it your best?" His voice was mainly inquisitive, although on the serious side. As curious as Shiv was about why Smoke said it, Smoke was curious about why it actually stuck with Shiv that he'd ask about it.
blacklegcook
Already the delicious scents of the food filled the the kitchen. A content smile quirked the corners of his lips; another job well done, if he said so himself. Salt pepper, a douse of wine, chopped tomatoes were stirred gently into the potatoes and cut fish fillets added on top before the lid covered it all. Now to wait a few minutes, enough time to lean back against the counter and answer Smoke.
"Ah." Oh good, the idiot wasn't as stupid as Chivalry first thought.
It had come across as strange to Chivalry, mainly because he had a feeling that outward encouragement wasn't something he was used to. This was especially true when it came from a man the blond had only shown barely-there tolerance.
inthecenterfold
Smoke's whole posture relaxed onto the ledge he was leaning on, one hand in his hair. He grinned fondly - not at Shiv, but off into the air.
"Cuz I want the bar to continue being successful with Grift running it. And a kickass cook would help that."
It was all completely honest, it just left out the detail of why Smoke wanted the bar to succeed or what his connection with Grift was. However, it did also indicate Smoke's statement had been more about the bar and less about Chivalry himself. It was true - had they been closer than barely-tolerable acquaintances, a hint of encouragement for the blond would have been included.
"And I figured you may've been real good back there, but here... figured it'd take some work." The tone wasn't insulting -- or wasn't intended to be insulting at least; more matter-of-fact, in a place where you lose your memories when you arrive and Chivalry hadn't been around that long yet.
blacklegcook
Chivalry crossed his arms across his chest, head tilted upwards and stared at the ceiling for a moment.
"Ah...so." He trailed off, his mind compared the last mention of the bar and Grift, to this one. "You care a lot about the place for just some random customer." Dark eye(s) now focused on Smoke, the grin alone seemed to verify the redhead's invested interest in the place.
Time ticked and the blond turned to check on the food with a 'hmm' of approval. The heat was turned off and he rummaged through another cabinet before he'd found what he needed. The thermos was set on the counter. Bowls and spoons and a large lunch bag came next.
The blond had to admit being grateful that the mess hall had come prepared for such things. It made sense, since most people might enjoy their meals outside, as well as inside with the nice atmosphere it had provided.
The food was carefully packed as he spoke, tone neutral. "Hm...It just seems to come naturally, like I've done it all my life." Shoulders bunched up in a nonchalant shrug. It wasn't like he understood it himself. How could he explain that it had been like breathing? Something a person just did without real thought behind it.
Once done he pushed the bag gently across the counter towards the redhead. "There's some simple instructions for this. I'm sure even your small shitty-brain can understand." The slight smirk indicated the blond was merely teasing...possibly.
"I've packed the garnish--Mah, that might be too hard for you to comprehend." He gave a pitying shake of his head before he elaborated. "There's parsley--that's the green leafy stuff--some lemon juice and a bit of olive oil. Just serve the food in the bowls and add that stuff on top. Think you can handle that much?" The blond wasn't going to tell Smoke about the extras he packed; bread for the dip, thermos with white wine, and--though it pained him to use them--plastic cups to drink from. This is what the redhead got for such shitty-late planning. Either way, it'd be a nice surprise for the lady, at least.
inthecenterfold
He watched Chivalry make the final preparations and bring it over. "What can I say..." Smoke drawled as he stood up. "I like the place."
As Shiv started the explanations though, Smoke's expression gradually shifted all the way from wistful to agitated. I really hope you aren't always gonna be this much of a jackass. The similarities with Moon need to stop right fucking there. "I'm not a complete moron, okay? I can handle that just fine."
While grabbing the bag with his right hand, he dug into his coat pocket with his left and pulled out a few of the coins that passed for currency in Edensphere. He had planned to say something else, but the thought was completely gone in light of Chivalry's insults,
so he just deposited the coins on the counter-top. It was worth closer to twice as much as Smoke would have paid for such a dish at the bar.
He turned away, fully prepared to leave on that note.
blacklegcook
He held his tongue on the 'not a complete moron' part. At least Smoke knew he was half of one. Chivalry snickered under his breath with that thought.
The good mood died though, the minute the redhead decided to bring shitty-money into the thing. "Oi--Idiot! This isn't the bar and I'm not at work!" The coins were scooped up in a clenched fist. The blond bounded over the counter with ease and stomped after the man, until he was before him, fist thrust out and a tight scowl marred his mouth.
"I didn't do it for shitty-payment! It's for the lady and a lady doesn't need to pay me for my services." The blond's stance and narrowed eyes made it clear he wasn't going to accept it.
inthecenterfold
As angry as he'd just been, and as furious as Chivalry looked... Smoke was genuinely stunned by that declaration. His cigarette hung loose on his lips and his eyes widened a little.
So... this is where you got your name from. It resonated with Smoke a little - not a lot, but the emphasis on being for the lady, that part hit home.
Slowly, Smoke extended his hand - palm up - underneath of Shiv's fist to accept his coins back. Though his face still evoked a 'shocked' look, it had softened more to 'intrigued' now. Smoke didn't often think about what to say before he said it, but he did now. He wasn't out to piss Shiv off; that had been an accident. If he doesn't want money...
"I'll tell Juliet you made it special for her. That make us about even?"
blacklegcook
After his angry declaration, Chivalry thought Smoke would just stand their gaping at him like a freaking moron. He was on the verge of snapping once again; perhaps the idiot still didn't--
Then a hand was beneath his fist and just like Smoke, Chivalry's face smoothed; this time his mouth melted into a wide grin. The coins exchanged hands and the blond gave a nod of acceptance at the deal. Maybe Smoke could learn.
"That's more like it." He fell back into his usual stance; a cigarette was pulled out and found its way to its usual placement. Now that his hands were free they dug themselves deep in the comforts of pant's pockets.
Another nod was tossed the redhead's way; this one in parting.
inthecenterfold
Smoke took the coins with his right hand -- his left held the bag now -- and shoved them back his pocket. He looked back to Shiv and smirked a little, glad that the tension had died out as quickly as it had flared up.
He walked past Chivalry on his right side, and very lightly punched Shiv's shoulder with his right hand.
"Seeya 'round, man."
Did that make them friends?
blacklegcook
That wasn't something he'd expected. A curled eyebrow climbed up high in brief surprise at the sudden show of...camaraderie?
For a moment the blond wasn't sure how to react, but then his mind caught up and had him step off to the side. His features warred between being irked and perplexity at the familiarity of such a display.
"...Ah, sure. See ya." Right arm raised, Chivalry waved him off and went back into the kitchen with a thoughtful look.
------
It was close to midnight and Smoke had his bag from Chivalry ready. Earlier he'd been running around attempting to figure out how he'd replace the tea idea, but had only come up with grabbing whatever the Mess Hall had or two beers from his fridge. He really didn't think beer and sausage was such a bad idea, but he did wince a little at how long his head might be ringing if Chivalry ever found out. A nice dish and lowly beer alongside it. Yeah, that wouldn't go over well.
It was then that he decided to take a second glance at the prepared meal and realized, upon opening the bag, that Chivalry had packed some extras and not even told Smoke about it. He grinned. Thanks, man. You're a lot nicer than you let on - at least when it comes to women, I guess.
So Smoke had fretted for nothing, and that meant he was able to wait until just a few minutes before midnight before setting out for the lake.
Date/Time: Tuesday October 19th 2010 midday; then midnight
Location: The Wilderness -- Mess Hall; then by the lake
Rating: PG13 for two foul mouths
Summary: Smoke had made plans to talk to Juliet and then the hurricane hit and he got busy, so down in the Camp Annawanna Wilderness he improvises, mostly through the aid of Chivalry. That same night, Smoke goes to talk to Juliet by the lake about all the strange things he's been noticing since his return and through the Hourglass incident.
------
After taking the morning shift for so many days, Smoke finally got an evening shift on Monday night. He'd enjoyed sleeping in immensely, so by the time he was done and on his way back, he wasn't actually all that tired. He ended up sitting outside of his cabin for awhile, just smoking and listening to the sounds of the outdoors. Smoke was getting very used to that tingling feeling at the base of your neck that meant 'this is familiar,' but at the same time he didn't like it very much. It was different when it was a cook-out with his brothers, but just sitting out here alone with the croaking of frogs and soft calls from insect to insect... this he didn't like all that much. The stars being so bright and visible, though, that was okay.
He opted for a walk to calm his nerves and to wear himself out a bit before he slept, but he didn't get far. Soon he heard - and saw - someone else walking around in the night and it took a bit, but he eventually identified the person as Juliet. He took one step towards her, but immediately stopped in his tracks.
Damnit I still need to talk to her. I was going to do it before, but then the hurricane mess started, and now I can't even use Inara's place like she offered, let alone bring any tea out here. Smoke resolved that he'd see if he could still make this work. He watched for a bit longer and found her heading towards the lake. Okay, so maybe she'll come back here again. That's pretty private, right? At night with no one else around. So now just gotta figure out something with the food... Food...
Shiv! Maybe he can help... If he doesn't kick me first. Hell it's worth a shot; not like I can run out to the Marketplace like this and just buy something.
------
So the next day Smoke decided to find Shiv, after he woke up in the late morning. He knew of only two other blond-haired men in Edensphere -- Reed and Moon -- so he hoped that Shiv wouldn't be too hard to find. He'd have used the journals but didn't for three reasons -- one, it was supposed to be a surprise for Juliet, two, the talk itself was meant to be really private, and three, the journals were on the fritz and being weird so Smoke didn't expect he could get his point across anyway. That and Shiv seemed to warm up more in person than on paper - a lot of people were like that, he supposed, but Shiv especially.
It was one of the only times that Smoke was grateful for the relatively small area the Wilderness had turned into compared to other times - like a whole city - and that the hurricane had shoved everyone together in these same small quarters. It meant that all Smoke had to do was start looking around in front of his cabin to spy a man with blond hair walking towards the mess hall.
Smoke had to hustle to catch up to him and it was as he approached Shiv's back at a few feet away that he realized just how far away he'd seen Shiv. Huh. Damn good eyesight.
He stopped jogging then and walked, evening his breath as he did so.
"Yo, Shiv!"
blacklegcook
It had started off as a lovely day. Well, what constituted as lovely down above a raging storm. Today Chivalry made his usual trip to the mess hall. It was the only place with a fully functioning kitchen and he was in the mood to try out new things.
Hmm…Maybe I'll try out some dinner dishes or perhaps lunches?
Head tilted upwards with a cigarette rolled lazily between his lips and hands forever within pockets; he mulled over all the different foods he'd like to get to work on today.
The mess hall was coming into sights when Chivalry heard running footsteps behind him and the eerily similar voice calling out to him. His steps stilled, head turned to regard the redhead with a vaguely curious look.
"Hmm?" The previous conversation he had shared with the man was the only reason the blond wasn't as hostile today.
inthecenterfold
Well that's promising, Smoke thought as he acknowledged Shiv's fairly placid response to his presence. Didn't make it much easier on Smoke's part to explain himself, though.
"Hey I... need to ask a favor, actually." His left hand immediately went to the nape of his neck. His tone was even enough, trying to act like it wasn't a big deal. " 'Cuz I can't buy any food down here, and I was planning to buy something really nice for her, so..."
He turned his face slightly away. "Any chance you'd be able to make a light snack for two? I'll pay for it."
Smoke kept his face turned away, but turned his eyes back to gauge Shiv's reaction. It may have been different if Shiv had been working at the bar and Smoke just ordered something, but being stuck out in the Wilderness like this... it was a legitimate favor he was asking, not just a purchase of services.
blacklegcook
Chivalry fully turned to regard him, eyebrow arched at the man's...awkwardness? It was the best way to describe his body language at least.
That curled eyed only climbed higher up as he listened to the man's request. Well, that was surprising. So much so that Chivalry couldn't help to comment.
"Ohh? I thought you only liked shitty-men." Just the barest narrowing of eyes gave hint to how Chivalry had felt about that. Considering the pervert's previous comments to him it was only natural for the blond to come to that conclusion. Though it appeared as if the redhead's question went unanswered the blond's actions spoke louder. Chivalry continued down the beaten trail towards the mess hall fully expecting the idiot to follow along.
inthecenterfold
Smoke couldn't bite his tongue for that, even if this was for Juliet. His face contorted into an agitated snarl, no joking involved. "I tease a lot of people. Still like chicks. What does that even-"
Then Chivalry started walking away and Smoke momentarily cursed under his breath. He was still angry now, but mainly because he didn't have a Plan B. He really didn't think that the blond's body language said anything like 'sure no problem,' and he sure as heck didn't say 'yeah fine, so long as you pay.'
So he shouted at Chivalry's back. "Oi! Hold up! Come on, man..." He trailed off there and closed his eyes in frustration. He refused to beg - that was going way too far. Money should be enough, since the turn this conversation took was damning enough to his pride. He pulled out his cigarette pack and started tapping out a stick. "Sorry for wasting your precious fucking time."
blacklegcook
"Shut up." It was drawled out coolly. Chivalry didn't stop his strides either or look back to give the man reassuring looks. If that's what Smoke wanted, he was looking at the wrong man.
"Idiot...Any person can figure out where I'm going. I thought it was pretty obvious what my answer would be." He pulled one hand from the confines of his pocket to emphasis this by with a pointed finger towards the mess hall.
Smoke had done favors for the blond; the cigarettes and the spar being the examples. Chivalry would have figured the guy would remember that. Food repaid the first and he figured giving the idiot another meal wouldn't be a big deal. After all, cooking had been what Chivalry had intended for today and actually having people to feed made it better.
He'd just conveniently forget that Smoke was one of them. There was a lady in need of a delicious meal and he'd never deny a woman anything! Still--It was amusing to finally have the redhead riled up instead of himself for once. Good thing Smoke couldn't catch his smirk from this perspective.
inthecenterfold
Smoke's eyes narrowed. "Whadju say--?!*"
How fucking hard is it to say 'I'll do it'? For all I know you were just going on your merry way and totally ignoring me. Damnit.
But he stopped another snappy comment from leaving his mouth, because by that point Shiv's words did give Smoke some impression he was going to make the requested food. "Che."
He started walking after Chivalry then, thinking about that last remark -- 'I thought it was pretty obvious what my answer would be.' That told Smoke two things. First was that his ability to understand tone of voice was still in working order -- they just had very different concepts of body language. He was taking Chivalry as someone used to being stiff as a pole, and thinking perhaps that was where the stuffy name came in to play. Smoke supposed that he should've already figured that out, but here it was being confirmed. The second thing was that it had never entered Shiv's head to say 'no' the whole time. That part actually puzzled Smoke a bit more.
We're not friends - how would it be obvious? This is a favor... and I never said who it was for, other than being a girl. Seriously, what happened? I bummed a cig the other night from a guy who doesn't like me; he just admitted he hated how I teased him. I could understand grudgingly agreeing to do it with payment, but for it to be obvious? What the fuck did I miss here?
These thoughts kept Smoke occupied all the way to the mess hall.
[[*Translation for 'N Da to?, shortened and slang version of "What'd you say?!"]]
blacklegcook
"I can hear your shitty-brain cells dying from here. Stop thinking so hard about it." That's when Chivalry turned by the door; a foot kicked it open and a wide smirk spread.
The blond definitely enjoyed finally one-upping the redhead for once. It was what he deserved for all the shitty-perverted comments sent his way that obviously were this man's way of joking around. Unfortunately, Chivalry didn't find them funny in the least.
The blond indicated to enter with a jerk of his head. Had it been that hard to understand? Geez.
"Come on, idiot. I'll whip something up that will make the lady more than pleased." Confidence? Check. When it came to cooking, the blond's trials and successes only continued to feed his pride.
inthecenterfold
"Better be damn awesome for me not to deck you for that. I recall getting kicked in the head when I teased a certain someone."
Smoke saw Shiv kick the door open and the head jerk, but he was honestly expecting Shiv to go in first. Like Smoke knew where he was going and... wait. That smile. Oh hell no.
The redhead stood right next to Chivalry for a moment. Then he collapsed against the outer wall with his arms folded. He put his drawn cigarette into his mouth and then pulled out his lighter.
As he struck it up, he cupped his hands over the cigarette. He mumbled around the stick, but his words were clear, his tone even, matter-of-fact and verging on... respect of all things.
"Your territory. You lead."
blacklegcook
Chivalry ignored that first part; he knew that it was just the product of a riled up redhead. As if the cook would make anything that wasn't anything short of amazing.
The blond frowned around a cigarette when Smoke didn't fall for the next subtle joke and merely stood his ground. Ah well...
Then the guy had to go and say that in that tone. It almost made Chivalry feel guilty...maybe. He blew out a long string of smoke with a sigh.
"Geez...Alright." He went inside and instantly made his way toward the Mess Hall's kitchen. It was time to get down to work. The mood instantly shifted and Chivalry stepped in and then around the kitchen's front counter; where orders were usually made.
"What would the lady like to eat?" He asked in an almost kindly manner. The blond had gotten used to this attitude, since he started work at the bar. That and the fact that cooking for a woman just gave added pleasure to the whole affair.
inthecenterfold
Smoke walked silently into the Mess Hall after Chivalry. The wooden tables weren't all that strange to him - it was about as big as he expected a large tavern to be. The slats on the walls, the beams on the ceiling - it was much more familiar to him than most places in the Sphere. Shiv certainly didn't waste any time though, so he caught Smoke off-guard as he was staring around the room.
"Hell if I know. Figured one step up from a sandwich or something, really." He pulled out the cigarette from his mouth and blew a bit of smoke. "I dunno, you pick something. Anything I can take outta here is fine."
Smoke didn't see this as a 'date' - namely because he hadn't even asked Juliet about it - and more importantly had lost all memories of dating culture he'd learned during his time with Ghost, including any lessons from the likes of Clé and Kanin. To him, it wasn't a 'visiting courtesy' either - it was specific to Juliet. It was an attempt to show he meant well, given how serious Inara had been with him.
blacklegcook
That had Chivalry facepalm, literally. His hand mussed up blond hair and he just gave Smoke a disbelieving stare. Who the hell asked someone for a favor and had no clue what they wanted?
"Geez...Are you an idiot?" A 'tsk' issued forth from his lips. "What sort of shitty-man doesn't know what their 'date' likes to eat?" More mutters followed under his breath. They mainly had to do with uncultured men and their inability to satisfy a lady properly.
Sleeves were rolled up to his elbows and he rummaged for one of the cookbooks he'd left here last time. Once found, Chivalry flipped through its pages. His visible eye darted back and forth over the words as he read the recipes and teeth bit down around the butt of his cigarette in contemplation.
"Hmm...How about this?" The book was turned with a quick twist of his wrist towards the redhead; his finger tapped at the image.
inthecenterfold
"... It's not a date. She's not my girlfriend or anything like that," Smoke retorted.
He left out the fact that he'd kissed her a few times and wanted more, or that he'd taken her out to the Festival; that wasn't what mattered here, and like hell he wanted Shiv blabbing to anyone he was dating someone when he definitely wasn't. He still didn't understand everything about dating culture, but he'd realized by now that to other people it mattered a lot. Someone's "boyfriend" or "girlfriend" was a big deal, and it was usually an exclusive relationship. So it was easier to just make Shiv believe that the girl he was meeting was just a friend.
"Look, she just likes nice things - she dresses nice, she works at the spa... So I wanted something better than a sandwich, but hell if I know what all's possible. Why do you think I asked for your help in the first place?"
He walked over a bit closer to see the picture indicated by Shiv's finger, then nodded. "Looks good at least - and I think she likes fish. Don't know what half of that other stuff is, so I'll have to take your word it tastes good."
blacklegcook
His lips pursed tightly as he listened. The idiot had better not be leading a lady on for just a quick--That thought was stubbed out the same moment that the cigarette between his teeth was.
Pervert the man may be, but Smoke said it had been teasing. Chivalry wanted to think that the other side of the man he'd spoken with a few days ago was the real person beneath; for now at least or until Smoke proved him wrong. If that happened then he'd kick the shit out of him...or if he pissed him off, which ever came first.
"Got it." The book was snapped shut with finality. The blond didn't need it. With all the nights Chivalry read it, he already had the majority of the recipes memorized. "Might as well sit down and wait."
A turn of his heel and the blond made quick work to show just how well he knew the kitchen. Cabinets, drawers, refrigerator door--all were opened and closed once he'd obtained whatever he needed from them, with a grace born from natural skill.
The cutting board was set, a proper skillet was magically coated with oil and turned over a medium fire to heat. Sausages came next, garlic crushed as that cooked, onion sliced with the knife skill of a professional, the same treatment was given to freshly washed potatoes and soon all joined the browned meat.
Throughout it all the blond had stayed silent, until something from their previous conversation rose to the surface now that he'd reminded himself of it. "...Oi, why'd you say 'that' last time?" He kept his back to Smoke as he spoke; the food took more priority than whatever answer the man gave. That was if the idiot could understand what he meant this time.
inthecenterfold
Smoke watched Shiv work, leaning over the countertop on his elbows and looking into the kitchen. He had been planning to ask if he could help, but two things stopped him. For one, his few attempts working around the kitchen when he'd last run the bar had ended with black smoke. For two, within a minute it was clear how comfortably Chivalry moved about the kitchen.
No way he figured all this out with just a few days at the bar's kitchen and a few days here in the Wilderness.
Smoke continued following the blond's movements, noting how dexterous his hands were for someone who refused to use his fists in a battle. The first time he saw a smile, he wasn't sure it was real. The second time, Shiv's head turned too fast for Smoke to be sure either. The third time, though, Smoke was sure that yes in fact Chivalry wasn't just good at cooking, he enjoyed cooking. As much as Smoke loved the atmosphere of a tavern, Shiv loved a kitchen.
Probably the only time he relaxes, either. It was a very different energy than the 'stiffness' Smoke had gleaned from Shiv's posture earlier.
Then Chivalry asked a question about 'that' and Smoke couldn't answer right away. A couple of the things they'd talked about had been questions from Shiv that Smoke answered; not much of it had been volunteered, per se. And he did explain why he'd stopped in the first place, so it was unlikely Shiv would ask about that again.
The only thing he could think of was either him saying 'Thanks' - since Shiv seemed to have it in his mind that Smoke was crass and rude about everything and everyone - or possibly the last thing he'd said before they parted ways. Given the atmosphere, either one was likely at this point.
" 'That' being... to give it your best?" His voice was mainly inquisitive, although on the serious side. As curious as Shiv was about why Smoke said it, Smoke was curious about why it actually stuck with Shiv that he'd ask about it.
blacklegcook
Already the delicious scents of the food filled the the kitchen. A content smile quirked the corners of his lips; another job well done, if he said so himself. Salt pepper, a douse of wine, chopped tomatoes were stirred gently into the potatoes and cut fish fillets added on top before the lid covered it all. Now to wait a few minutes, enough time to lean back against the counter and answer Smoke.
"Ah." Oh good, the idiot wasn't as stupid as Chivalry first thought.
It had come across as strange to Chivalry, mainly because he had a feeling that outward encouragement wasn't something he was used to. This was especially true when it came from a man the blond had only shown barely-there tolerance.
inthecenterfold
Smoke's whole posture relaxed onto the ledge he was leaning on, one hand in his hair. He grinned fondly - not at Shiv, but off into the air.
"Cuz I want the bar to continue being successful with Grift running it. And a kickass cook would help that."
It was all completely honest, it just left out the detail of why Smoke wanted the bar to succeed or what his connection with Grift was. However, it did also indicate Smoke's statement had been more about the bar and less about Chivalry himself. It was true - had they been closer than barely-tolerable acquaintances, a hint of encouragement for the blond would have been included.
"And I figured you may've been real good back there, but here... figured it'd take some work." The tone wasn't insulting -- or wasn't intended to be insulting at least; more matter-of-fact, in a place where you lose your memories when you arrive and Chivalry hadn't been around that long yet.
blacklegcook
Chivalry crossed his arms across his chest, head tilted upwards and stared at the ceiling for a moment.
"Ah...so." He trailed off, his mind compared the last mention of the bar and Grift, to this one. "You care a lot about the place for just some random customer." Dark eye(s) now focused on Smoke, the grin alone seemed to verify the redhead's invested interest in the place.
Time ticked and the blond turned to check on the food with a 'hmm' of approval. The heat was turned off and he rummaged through another cabinet before he'd found what he needed. The thermos was set on the counter. Bowls and spoons and a large lunch bag came next.
The blond had to admit being grateful that the mess hall had come prepared for such things. It made sense, since most people might enjoy their meals outside, as well as inside with the nice atmosphere it had provided.
The food was carefully packed as he spoke, tone neutral. "Hm...It just seems to come naturally, like I've done it all my life." Shoulders bunched up in a nonchalant shrug. It wasn't like he understood it himself. How could he explain that it had been like breathing? Something a person just did without real thought behind it.
Once done he pushed the bag gently across the counter towards the redhead. "There's some simple instructions for this. I'm sure even your small shitty-brain can understand." The slight smirk indicated the blond was merely teasing...possibly.
"I've packed the garnish--Mah, that might be too hard for you to comprehend." He gave a pitying shake of his head before he elaborated. "There's parsley--that's the green leafy stuff--some lemon juice and a bit of olive oil. Just serve the food in the bowls and add that stuff on top. Think you can handle that much?" The blond wasn't going to tell Smoke about the extras he packed; bread for the dip, thermos with white wine, and--though it pained him to use them--plastic cups to drink from. This is what the redhead got for such shitty-late planning. Either way, it'd be a nice surprise for the lady, at least.
inthecenterfold
He watched Chivalry make the final preparations and bring it over. "What can I say..." Smoke drawled as he stood up. "I like the place."
As Shiv started the explanations though, Smoke's expression gradually shifted all the way from wistful to agitated. I really hope you aren't always gonna be this much of a jackass. The similarities with Moon need to stop right fucking there. "I'm not a complete moron, okay? I can handle that just fine."
While grabbing the bag with his right hand, he dug into his coat pocket with his left and pulled out a few of the coins that passed for currency in Edensphere. He had planned to say something else, but the thought was completely gone in light of Chivalry's insults,
so he just deposited the coins on the counter-top. It was worth closer to twice as much as Smoke would have paid for such a dish at the bar.
He turned away, fully prepared to leave on that note.
blacklegcook
He held his tongue on the 'not a complete moron' part. At least Smoke knew he was half of one. Chivalry snickered under his breath with that thought.
The good mood died though, the minute the redhead decided to bring shitty-money into the thing. "Oi--Idiot! This isn't the bar and I'm not at work!" The coins were scooped up in a clenched fist. The blond bounded over the counter with ease and stomped after the man, until he was before him, fist thrust out and a tight scowl marred his mouth.
"I didn't do it for shitty-payment! It's for the lady and a lady doesn't need to pay me for my services." The blond's stance and narrowed eyes made it clear he wasn't going to accept it.
inthecenterfold
As angry as he'd just been, and as furious as Chivalry looked... Smoke was genuinely stunned by that declaration. His cigarette hung loose on his lips and his eyes widened a little.
So... this is where you got your name from. It resonated with Smoke a little - not a lot, but the emphasis on being for the lady, that part hit home.
Slowly, Smoke extended his hand - palm up - underneath of Shiv's fist to accept his coins back. Though his face still evoked a 'shocked' look, it had softened more to 'intrigued' now. Smoke didn't often think about what to say before he said it, but he did now. He wasn't out to piss Shiv off; that had been an accident. If he doesn't want money...
"I'll tell Juliet you made it special for her. That make us about even?"
blacklegcook
After his angry declaration, Chivalry thought Smoke would just stand their gaping at him like a freaking moron. He was on the verge of snapping once again; perhaps the idiot still didn't--
Then a hand was beneath his fist and just like Smoke, Chivalry's face smoothed; this time his mouth melted into a wide grin. The coins exchanged hands and the blond gave a nod of acceptance at the deal. Maybe Smoke could learn.
"That's more like it." He fell back into his usual stance; a cigarette was pulled out and found its way to its usual placement. Now that his hands were free they dug themselves deep in the comforts of pant's pockets.
Another nod was tossed the redhead's way; this one in parting.
inthecenterfold
Smoke took the coins with his right hand -- his left held the bag now -- and shoved them back his pocket. He looked back to Shiv and smirked a little, glad that the tension had died out as quickly as it had flared up.
He walked past Chivalry on his right side, and very lightly punched Shiv's shoulder with his right hand.
"Seeya 'round, man."
Did that make them friends?
blacklegcook
That wasn't something he'd expected. A curled eyebrow climbed up high in brief surprise at the sudden show of...camaraderie?
For a moment the blond wasn't sure how to react, but then his mind caught up and had him step off to the side. His features warred between being irked and perplexity at the familiarity of such a display.
"...Ah, sure. See ya." Right arm raised, Chivalry waved him off and went back into the kitchen with a thoughtful look.
------
It was close to midnight and Smoke had his bag from Chivalry ready. Earlier he'd been running around attempting to figure out how he'd replace the tea idea, but had only come up with grabbing whatever the Mess Hall had or two beers from his fridge. He really didn't think beer and sausage was such a bad idea, but he did wince a little at how long his head might be ringing if Chivalry ever found out. A nice dish and lowly beer alongside it. Yeah, that wouldn't go over well.
It was then that he decided to take a second glance at the prepared meal and realized, upon opening the bag, that Chivalry had packed some extras and not even told Smoke about it. He grinned. Thanks, man. You're a lot nicer than you let on - at least when it comes to women, I guess.
So Smoke had fretted for nothing, and that meant he was able to wait until just a few minutes before midnight before setting out for the lake.