The Bear and Barnacle

If there has been one thing that has been consistent since the Joker wandered into Margate, it's been that the food from one cook at the pub has been suitably adequate, while the food from the other has been consistently above par. He supposes that the number of times he has threatened Ivonka has not helped matters, but really, he threatens everyone, so why should she be special? She's not special, she's noone. Unlike the other cook. Oh, sure, he's threatened him too, but those threats are on a whole different level. They are anticipated, possibly even enjoyed. And they are...personal.

Whatever, the point is that Xellos' food amuses Joker. Xellos amuses Joker. And that's a pretty rare gift, to capture and keep the Joker's attention. Without dying. The Joker can count those people on one hand.

So he decides it's time to be a bit more...forthcoming...with his...special appreciation. And he slips in and out of the pub (only a sap would stick around), leaving a beautiful (if dangerous) arrangement of Venus Flytraps on the bar, with a card saying:

For Xellos
Love, Mr. J

You all need something to talk about, yes? Well. There will be no funny business from you lot this month.

You shall talk about "My appreciation of those who cook for me." Now order and sit.

And no, while she would like everyone to, you don't have to talk about Ivonka -- Xel or your landlady or dear old Mum will be fine too.

Just to annoy Ivonka, the tag is "kiss the cook."