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002 | [ video/action (?) ]

[ Robin doesn't use his device too terribly often; not because he doesn't understand how to use it - he's caught on well by now - but he'd still much prefer to speak with someone in person, unless of course they really only need to ask something briefly of each other. It serves a purpose, he won't deny that.

And today, he's decided to step outside of his comfort zone and deviate from how he normally conducts himself, posing a few questions and observations to anyone who might be listening.

He's in the dining room at the moment, giving some thought as to what he wants to eat, and his face is rather perfectly centered as he speaks. ]

Before my arrival here in Wonderland, I had a brief stay in a small village by the name of Storybrooke. Everyone frequented Granny's diner, so I presume the food was extraordinary there, but I regretfully didn't have much time to sample it all.

[ He thinks for a moment, trying to remember some of the menu items: ]

I enjoyed the burger I was able to try, and the grilled cheese.

I was curious about something called buffalo wings. Does anyone know much about the buffalo? It must be rather small, based on its wing structure.

[ He's familiar with chickens, and the meat that comprises burgers, but buffalo is something new to him. ]

I've come to understand there's a particular type of food unique to diners, and while this place isn't a diner in the strictest sense, we can certainly acquire any of the food normally found there. I'm not sure what I should try. Any suggestions?

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I can think of some things things. I don't know if anyone has broached the subject of "fine dining," but I've eaten at a few restaurants that focus on it. [She doesn't bring it up to brag, but rather to introduce Robin to an area others may not have memories from. She really does want to give Robin a taste of everything, and Wonderland has made such dishes more accessible in an odd sort of way.]

Generally, it's comprised of more expensive ingredients and artistic presentations. Calling it "fancy" would be accurate. [Although there is a certain irony in talking about this to Robin Hood, of all people.] They're meals designed to impress; most of the time I've been to these restaurants as part of business meetings. [Then she smiles, a teasing note coming into her voice.] Although I've been on a few dates at fine dining restaurants too.

I haven't heard mention of it yet, actually.

[ "Fancy" he does understand, and prior to becoming an outlaw focused solely on helping others, he'd experienced some fine feasts indeed, though most of the time he spent in Sherwood Forest, he simply ate whatever was readily available in the woods, which tended not to be anything even approaching fancy. ]

I've been to a few fancy feasts in my time, some quite ostentatious, though it's been a while.

A date? [ He smiles back. ] I'm sure your suitor was eager to impress. [ Unless there had been more than one suitor, which wouldn't surprise him. ]

Unfortunately that can often go hand-in-hand with fine dining cuisine. [Particularly when a few mouthfuls of food goes for an outrageous price on a menu. Pepper's seen it in a number of restaurants that focused on flare above everything else. Thankfully she's also been to a number that truly embrace the artistry and crafting in cooking while not forgetting their goal of feeding people.] We'll try to avoid that if you decide you want to sample some things with me.

[She glances down from the camera for a moment as the conversation goes on, her smile fond when Robin speaks of her suitor.] Actually, he is. He tries very hard to make sure I'm impressed with what he does. [Even if his efforts don't always leave the right impression--case in point, one giant stuffed rabbit. But Pepper still recognizes the thought in the gestures, and sometimes Tony even manages to get things very right.]

I'd quite like to sample some of this fine dining with you, simply inform me of a time that would work for you. [ He realizes it probably sounds a bit formal the way he's said it, but it's just in his nature to be polite. ]

I suppose the important question is, has he succeeded in that?

I think I can manage that. What about tomorrow for lunch? [Since Pepper suspects Robin already has a few offers for today, and he definitely won't have an appetite afterward. As for the formality, she certainly doesn't mind it--even if she can't help but think it sounds like they're arranging a date to a certain degree.

But Pepper has no such intentions, and she doubts Robin does either. It's simply the way he speaks, being far removed from Pepper's time.

If he does decide he wants to date someone, however, Pepper doesn't see Robin having much difficulty in terms of being charming.]

Well, I am living with him. [In a manner of speaking. While the problems that she had made far too public when they had thought they were related had their basis in the false world of the event, Pepper can't say that her relationship with Tony is flawless. But she still loves him, in spite of the difficulties, and there's no hiding that in the way she smiles, or the look in her eyes.] But he had to do a lot more than just buy me a few fancy meals first.

I'll look forward to it.

[ If someone were observing their conversation, there's a good chance they would assume it was a date, but like Pepper, Robin doesn't think of it as such. Well, it's a date in the strictest definition of the word, perhaps, but not with the romantic connotations that word typically conjures. ]

I'm glad to hear that, you deserve the very best. [ It's not just a hollow sentiment, he feels that way about anyone he cares about. ]

Thank you. That's very sweet. [On both counts. Although everything isn't exactly perfect in her relationship at the moment, the simple truth is that she's loved Tony Stark for a very long time. Equally true is that he loves her, even if he doesn't always figure out the best ways to show it. Still, she's happy to be with him, flaws and all.]

So what about you? We've talked about my suitor, so I think it's only fair if I get to ask about your pursuits. [Like Robin, Pepper wants those she considers friends to be happy. She'd also like to learn a bit more about Robin, outside of what fairytales have taught her. Here's he's as real as she is, and he deserves to be treated like an actual person.]

[ Robin's always been the protective sort, even of people he knows are fully capable of taking care of themselves - people like Pepper and Natasha, for instance - though that protectiveness runs even deeper with the people he considers to be friends and second family. So, he's glad things are well, and if they're ever not, he's more than happy to step in if necessary. ]

Well. [ He smiles softly, trying to decide the best way to talk about it all. ] I do care very deeply for someone. Regina. It's been a bit unusual for us, as we were merely friends when I arrived, but after she returned here from being back in Storybrooke briefly, her...memories had altered. She knows things from our future, and her and I are evidently together, which...led to an exchange of affections here.

Regina? [She's heard the name, but that isn't the reason for her confusion. The story of Robin Hood has several famous characters, including Maid Marion as Robin's love interest. So hearing a completely different name than the one she expects throws Pepper for a moment. She catches herself however, reminding herself that the stories she's heard don't necessarily define Robin as a person. Who's to say he can't be with someone named Regina or Emily, or even Little John?

Whatever makes him happy, and it's clear that this woman does. She can see it plainly in the way Robin smiles, and she's glad for him.] That sounds like a future worth looking forward to. And hopefully we'll find something worth sharing with her the next time you "exchange affections."

Hopefully. [ Just one word in reply, but he's smiling, and it's obvious he's smitten. There's nothing to hide, really, though he knows Regina is probably a bit more guarded about it. ]

I'm looking forward to lunch tomorrow, Pepper.

[ And the next day, he is, of course, prompt, making sure she doesn't have to wait for him at all. He's eager to spend the time with her, and eager to eat, but that's a given. ]

[Oh, yes. Head over heels in every sense of the cliche, and Pepper bites back any teasing commentary as they end their phone conversation. There's plenty of time for it at lunch, when Pepper arrives only a few moments before Robin. She's barely picked out a table when the man walks in, and Pepper quickly waves him over.]

Hey. I hope you're hungry. [She gives him a brief glance at a list she's come up with, both for her own memory, and his. She's tried to compile a variety of dishes, focusing largely on classical French--which, coincidentally, is the language most of the list is written in. But there's space below each item as well, and Pepper hands over a pen along with the paper.]

I didn't know if you wanted to take notes. [On what he likes, what he doesn't like, what he thinks Regina might like; there's a lot of possibility, and far be it from her to deprive anyone of the chance to be organized.]

[ Robin smiles as he takes a seat across from her, folding his hands together on the edge of the table as he glances at everything. Rather than feeling overwhelmed, he's just intrigued. ]

This was all quite thoughtful of you, Pepper, and I am indeed hungry.

Thank you, I think with everything we're about to try, it'll help to organize my thoughts on what I've enjoyed most.

[ He wouldn't have even thought to take notes, but it makes perfect sense. ]

Is there a proper way to start, something in particular to begin with?

Oh, you're very welcome. [She's glad to hear it. Perhaps the variety may end up being too much, but she's tried to think of a little of everything--or at least, most things. It's impossible to be all-inclusive, but if this goes well, maybe they can repeat the process. For her it's also fun, a certain amount of nostalgia associated with a large number of the dishes.]

Yes, actually. If we were being extremely fancy, there would be amuse bouche; those are single bites meant to whet the appetite. But for this, we'll start with the hors d'oeuvre. [She motions towards the plates on what is his left, all small and easily eaten and shared.] They're called appetizers in English, and it's basically a small plate eaten while you wait for your main course.

There are also a number of soups and salads, so feel free to start with whatever you'd like, up to here. [She motions towards the space between salads and mains, wanting to keep things relatively organized. She won't tell Robin what they're eating until after he's tried it, since some food is less appetizing once you actually know what it is.]

[ On the contrary, he actually enjoys the variety presented to him. Some of it looks a bit familiar, though he's certain the flavors will be different from what he's used to, probably far more sophisticated and adventurous, and he's quite thrilled by it all. ]

Interesting. I can imagine needing a nap after such a full meal.

[ He takes his time with each appetizer, savoring every bite, trying to pick out flavors, trying to decide which herbs have been utilized. Then, he points his fork at the mussels ] I enjoy these the most, I think.

[ Mindful of not getting too far ahead of her, his bites are slow and indulgent, then he eats a bit of soup and salad before finally moving to some of the main courses. It's when he takes a bite of the lamb that his eyes briefly close and a faint, almost guttural moan falls from his lips before he sets his fork down, wiping at his mouth, looking a bit sheepish. ]

Forgive me, I...wasn't at all expecting that to be so delicious.

Well, to be fair, not even upscale meals usually have this much food. [While a tasting menu might sport the variety, each dish is still a reasonably sized portion. Likely more than enough for the two of them, but Pepper can likely take the leftovers down to the lab if need be. For now she just enjoys the meal, not only savoring the food but watching Robin react to it. She provides what information she can, although there are still some blanks. She remembers tastes, but without knowing components herself, it's hard to pick out what would be necessary to recreate the dish in an actual kitchen.

Still, it's fun. She nods when he points out his preference for the muscles.] I'll remember that if we do this again. You might also like dishes with oysters and clams; those are other types of shellfish that are similar.

[Salads and soups don't last long, and she can't entirely blame Robin. While both have their moments when they might be perfect, the heart of the meal can often be the best. Apparently he thinks the same, because unexpectedly he lets out what can only be described as a groan of pleasure after tasting the lamb.]

Oh, that's okay. Believe me, I've heard worse. [And Pepper, for her part is doing her very best not to laugh at poor Robin's reaction. It's a battle she could very well lose, her shoulders nearly shaking with the effort to keep it in.] I'm just glad you're enjoying yourself so much.

[ He's been introduced to some wonderful food by others here, like Henry and Darcy, and Emma. They ate diner food together, though, which is certainly different from the foods he's enjoying with Pepper. But it has him wondering if they'd like this, and he thinks at some point he should introduce them to it. Especially Henry, since he seems the truly adventurous sort. ]

That's helpful to know.

[ He wouldn't blame her for laughing, because the moment that sound leaves his lips, he realizes how amusing it must have sounded to her. She takes it in stride, it seems. ]

I am, and I thank you for not laughing broadly, though you would have certainly earned the right to it.

Well, if it helps, I'll probably tease you about it later. [Pepper is proper when the time calls for it, but she also enjoys friendly teasing. She gets the feeling Robin can take a bit of ribbing, especially when he points out that she could have laughed much harder, and understandably.] But for now, that should probably be a dish you only eat with Regina.

[Considering the near orgasmic reaction he'd had, anyway.]

Let me know when you're ready for desserts. [Here her eyes sparkle with something other than playfulness; while Robin found his bliss in a meaty entree, Pepper has always enjoyed the sweeter things most.]

[ He smirks at the mention of Regina. ] Quite right about that.

[ He's actually not used to eating much dessert. It's only since he's arrived here in Wonderland that he's been exposed to such an assortment of sweeter delectables, and he finds himself enjoying them just as much. Nodding, he takes a few more bites of food, then washes it down with a drink. He doesn't feel uncomfortably full, so: ]

I believe I'm ready.

Good. [There are three plates already, but Pepper holds up a finger to indicate Robin should wait.] There's something I still have to think up; certain dishes can hold for a little bit and be okay, but this one needs to be eaten shortly after it's prepared.

[It's definitely Pepper's favorite, and she closes her eyes, smiling brightly as she imagines a perfectly risen, utterly decadent dark chocolate souffle, partnered with a bowl of creme anglais. This is the sort of treat she only allows herself rarely, and when she looks at Robin again, she's practically giddy.]

This is a souffle, and it is absolutely wonderful. [She takes her spoon, and demonstrates just how to break open the center, revealing the molten chocolate within. She will be good, however, and let him take the first bite.

No promises on how much he'll get to taste after, however.]

[ The pure joy in her eyes is infectious, and he knows he's in for quite the treat as he responds in kind with a bright smile. It certainly smells absolutely wonderful, and he has little doubt the taste will be exquisite. So, he takes a large bite, his mouth wrapping around the spoon in slow motion as he fully intends to belabor the act of actually swallowing. His eyes flicker closed for a moment, then open again. ]

Oh, that's magnificent. Truly magnificent.

Isn't it? [He's had his sample, and now Pepper gets her turn; she spoons a little of the anglais onto the bite she plans to take, then scoops it up and savors her part of the dessert. Truly anything with chocolate is likely to win points with her, but she's never found anything she really likes better than the souffle they're sharing now.

But notably, she doesn't actually moan, even if she's tempted to.] Like I said, that's one you need to have fresh, so if you plan on sharing it with Regina, think it up just before you serve it. Also be careful with it; the way souffles rise makes them delicate, and too much jostling will make them collapse.

Thank you for the helpful tips, Pepper.

[ He's careful not to overindulge, wanting her to have just a bit more than he has since she was kind enough to invite him out to eat like this in the first place. And once he's stuffed as full as he possibly could be, Robin wipes his mouth, sighing happily. ]

This was a wonderful meal, and you're a dear friend to facilitate this.

Oh, of course. Please, let me know if I can help further.

[She means it; Pepper had gotten as much enjoyment out of the time together as she thinks Robin had ~~minus the moaning~~, and it's already something she looks forward to doing again.

The fact he lets her have most of the souffle definitely earns him points too.]

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002 | [ video/action (?) ]

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do you want to skip ahead to their lunch?

yeah that works for me! :D

oh gosh i am so late /)_(\

no worries! <3

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