Gabrielle looked at it. Joxer looked at it. The mixture in the pot bubbled worryingly. Gabrielle dipped her wooden spoon in the pot and not all of the spoon came out of the pot. The mixture was quickly spooned onto two plates which was sampled extremely gingerly by both.

There was a pained silence, which the blonde ended with a sucking of her teeth. "Think I saw some ground coconut on Argo the other day. That should cool it down enough."

After a hasty rummage in Argo's saddlebags, the small leather bag and its contents were retrieved. "Curious flavour, but it tastes ok," Gabrielle announced, after taking a pinch.

The coconut was sprinkled liberally onto the plates of meat and in the pot. Trying again, this time Joxer and his paramour munched more happily upon the meal and emptied the plate.

Xena came back with more firewood still wearing a big tall white hat and a white apron. "How was the curry? I've been meaning to try it out ever since we left India."

"Bit too hot," Joxer admitted, "But Gabby found some coconut and it tasted great after that!"

"Gabrielle, I told you I could cook," Xena said triumphantly.

"You do have many skills," Gabrielle conceded.

"You've got that right," Xena laughed. "I don't remember buying any coconut though. Where'd you find it?"

"It was in Argo's saddlebags," Joxer called after her as she delved through her mare's belongings.

"Nope, drawn a blank on coconut. Anyway, shopping's more Gabrielle's angle," Xena said. "By the way, have either of you seen a small leather bag of powder? I bought it from a Healer the other day. It's for Argo, for her fleas..."

Please take the time to write to Jerry at studmuffin_jer@yahoo.com, and let him know how you liked the story!

COPYRIGHT DISCLAIMER:
Xena: Warrior Princess, Xena, Gabrielle, Joxer, and all other characters who have appeared in the series, together with the names, titles and backstory are the sole copyright property of StudiosUSA and Renaissance Pictures. No infringement of copyrights or trademarks is intended in the writing of this fan fiction. This story is copyright © 2006 by Jerry Hendy and is his sole property along with the story idea. This story cannot be sold or used for profit in any way. Copies of this story may be made for private use only and must include all disclaimers and copyright notices.