The Two Kings

Duplicatnation

"Okay, Parker, now gently ease the knife into the carrots," Pigsy instructed.

"Got it, Mr. Pigsy," Parker replied.

With rapt attention, Parker watched and learned, his hands deftly executing each technique Pigsy demonstrated - from pulling gossamer-thin noodles to slicing vegetables with surgical precision, preserving their vibrant flavors and tantalizing textures. The young apprentice moved with a focused intensity, his brow furrowed in concentration as he followed Pigsy's expert guidance.

With swift, confident strokes, he diced the carrots into a perfect brunoise, the small uniform cubes tumbling into the aromatic broth. Turning to Pigsy, Parker flashed a triumphant thumbs-up, his face alight with a sense of accomplishment. The seasoned chef eyed the soup, expression unreadable, before dipping his wooden spoon in for a contemplative taste. After a long, thoughtful slurp, Pigsy's stern facade broke into an approving nod. "It's good," he pronounced, and Parker beamed with pride.

Pigsy then carefully ladled the soup into a bowl, handing it reverently to Parker. With practiced motions, Parker wrapped a clean cloth around the vessel, insulating it against the cooler air. At Pigsy's clanging bell and shout of "Order up!", Parker dutifully passed the bowl to MK, who swiftly carried it off to be delivered on his Tuk-tuk.

Turning back to Parker, Pigsy could see the eager anticipation written across the younger man's face. "You think you can teach me how to make Dandan noodles, now?" Parker asked, his eyes shining with excitement. 

Pigsy let out a hearty chuckle, the corners of his mouth curling upwards into a grin as he shoved his own well-worn chef's hat firmly onto Parker's head. "Get my tools, we're gonna be here awhile," he replied, already moving to gather the necessary ingredients.

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As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the bustling city streets, Parker knew his long day had finally come to an end. After indulging in his favorite noodle dish, a warm and comforting meal that never failed to hit the spot, the young man made his way up the rickety fire escape and into the cozy bedroom he shared with MK. Shrugging off his coat, Parker allowed it to fall haphazardly onto the waiting coat rack before collapsing back onto the familiar softness of his bed, his body sinking into the plush mattress with a contented sigh.

But his moment of respite was short-lived, as the bedroom door suddenly burst open to reveal a harried-looking MK, his hair now in disarray and his signature bandanna nowhere to be seen. Clearly exhausted from the day's events, MK trudged over to his own bed and all but fell face-first into the pillows, letting out a muffled groan. Sensing his friend's distress, Parker propped himself up on one elbow, a concerned expression crossing his features as he asked, "Tired?"

"Yeah..." came the muffled reply, MK's voice barely audible as he continued to bury his face in the soft fabric.

"Want me to make you some tea? Mr. Sandy gave me some chamomile that I think you'd really like. It's supposed to be great for helping you sleep." The mere mention of the soothing, fragrant tea seemed to pique MK's interest, and he lifted his head just enough to reveal a grateful expression.

"Parker, you are a sage-send. Yes, please."

Flashing MK a comforting grin, Parker set to work, rummaging through the cabinets in search of the promised tea. As he carefully poured the hot liquid into two mugs, a loud rumbling sound suddenly echoed through the hallways, causing both boys to pause and turn their attention towards the source of the disturbance. Without warning, a blur of bright green and white came barreling into the room.